Canada's geological diversity has blessed the country with dozens of natural hot springs — from world-famous developed pools in the Rockies to remote backcountry soaks accessible only on foot or by boat. Whether you're looking for a luxurious soak after a day of skiing or a wild wilderness experience off the grid, Canada's hot springs deliver.
This 2026 guide covers the best hot springs across the country, with practical information on location, temperature, access, and what to bring.
Canada's highest hot springs at 1,585 metres elevation, the Banff Upper Hot Springs offer stunning mountain views from a historic 1932 stone bathhouse. The pool is maintained at 37–40°C year-round, with steam rising in dramatic contrast against snowy Rocky Mountain peaks in winter.
Located just minutes from downtown Banff, this is one of the most accessible hot springs in Canada. Towel and swimsuit rentals available on site. Book timed entry slots online during peak summer months to avoid queues.
Possibly the most impressive hot springs in Canada, Liard River sits at the edge of the wilderness on the Alaska Highway. The two pools — Alpha and Beta — are surrounded by a boreal forest microclimate so warm that tropical-looking plants grow here despite being in subarctic BC.
Alpha pool sits around 42°C, while Beta is hotter at 52°C. The boardwalk path from the campground winds through steaming, lush vegetation — an otherworldly experience. Watch for black bears, moose, and even bison along the highway.
Built into a horseshoe cave overlooking Kootenay Lake, Ainsworth Hot Springs is one of BC's most unique spa experiences. The cave itself stays around 43°C while the outdoor pool is cooler at 35°C. The setting — high above the lake with mountain reflections — is spectacular at sunset.
The Kootenay region is one of BC's best-kept travel secrets, and Ainsworth makes the perfect centrepiece for a Nelson area itinerary.
Set in a provincial forest outside the small town of Nakusp, these springs have been developed into two outdoor pools surrounded by towering cedar and fir trees. The larger pool sits at 38°C, the smaller at 41°C. Night swimming is particularly magical under a canopy of stars.
One of BC's most rewarding adventure hot springs, St. Leon requires either a short hike or a boat ride across Upper Arrow Lake to reach. The reward is a series of natural rock pools at varying temperatures cascading down a hillside, completely free to use and almost always uncrowded.
A true off-the-beaten-path experience, Halfway River requires a 4WD vehicle and a 2-hour drive on forest service roads from Fort St. John, followed by a short hike. The natural pools sit beside the Halfway River — completely undeveloped, no fees, and usually deserted.
Essential for hot springs visits — compact, fast-drying, anti-microbial.
Shop on Amazon.ca →Pool decks and rocky paths require sturdy, grip-soled water shoes.
Shop on Amazon.ca →Stay hydrated — hot springs are dehydrating. Keep cool water nearby.
Shop on Amazon.ca →The northernmost major hot springs in western Canada, Takhini is a 20-minute drive from Whitehorse. In winter, it hosts the World Frozen Hair Competition — visitors soak in the pool and sculpt their wet hair into frozen shapes outside in the –30°C air. It's as ridiculous and wonderful as it sounds.
The springs are also a good aurora viewing spot — if the lights are dancing, soaking in the pool while watching them overhead is an unforgettable Canadian moment.
The closest developed hot springs to Vancouver, Harrison is a full resort town built around its mineral waters. The Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa is the main draw, but a public pool in town offers the same geothermal water at a fraction of the price.
Harrison Lake itself is one of BC's largest, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and sandy beaches — making this a complete destination rather than just a hot springs stop.
Get our weekly guides to Canada's best natural spots, national parks, and secret destinations.
Related articles: Hidden Gems of BC • Best Ski Resorts in Canada • Best Lighthouses in Canada