Ready to embark on an exciting adventure through some of BC’s most stunning mountain scenery? Destination BC has mapped out a week-long journey that is perfect for the winter season, taking travellers to five natural hot springs.
So if you’re looking for a wintertime road trip that’s equal parts rejuvenating as it is thrilling, read on.
Part 1: Cranbrook to Golden
Starting in the small town of Cranbrook, the scenic journey first brings you to historic gems like the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel and Fort Steele Heritage Town, which gives visitors a glimpse into the region’s ‘wild west’ past.
Next up on the map is the charming mountain town of Kimberley, which is just over an hour away from Cranbrook between the Purcell and Rocky Mountains. Known for its prime night skiing and ski-in/ski-out options, Kimberley Alpine Resort is a must-visit if you’re looking to hit some of the best slopes in North America.
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Just 20 minutes away from Kimberley is the town of Fairmont Hot Springs, which marks the first of five hot springs on the journey. And what better place to start than Canada’s largest natural hot springs?
The unincorporated town offers visitors all the trappings of a year-round Rocky Mountain resort, from cozy mountain view cottages and cabins to 14 exciting ski & snowboard runs, to a mountainside golf course. And of course, the world-class mineral hot spring pools are always a joy to visit if you need some quality R&R.
Next up, we have Invermere and Radium Hot Springs. The lakeside communities of Invermere and Windermere are home to the longest ice-skating pathway in the world: Lake Windermere Whiteway, which clocks in at 34 kilometres long.
After a bit of Nordic skiing or skating, travellers can head to Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park to unwind in naturally heated water with a unique blend of minerals.
Part 2: Golden to Ainsworth Hot Springs
Now, we come to the second half of the journey, which commences just under two hours away from Radium in Golden, BC. A hotspot for ice climbing, ski-touring, and snowmobiling, it’s no wonder that Golden is a popular wintertime destination in and of itself.
Here, visitors can also dine at the highest-elevated restaurant in Canada at 2,347 metres: Eagle’s Eye Restaurant.
From there, adventurers will journey to Revelstoke, a vibrant community known for its famed mountain resort, restored heritage buildings, and sprawling arts & culture scene.
Just over half an hour’s drive from Revelstoke is Halcyon Hot Springs, which boasts gorgeous views of the Monashee Mountains and water so pure, that it’s said to have antidepressant qualities.
Finally, we come to the last two stops on the list, which incidentally both have hot springs themselves: Naksup and Ainsworth Hot Springs. The former happens to be the clearest hot springs in the province, surrounded by mountain trails and pristine lakes.
The latter is a bit of a home stretch (over three hours away from Naksup), but it’s well worth it to end your journey here. The historic village is known for its year-round hot springs and ancient limestone caves to explore.
So there you have it, BC! Consider your next winter road trip itinerary made.
