Home to the cleanest and clearest hot springs in B.C., the quaint village of Nakusp is one of the province’s best-kept secrets. Situated in the Selkirk Mountains, Nakusp has breathtaking lakes and expansive forests that tempt visitors to pause and unwind, no matter the time of year.
B.C.’s finest hot springs
The Nakusp Hot Springs are community-owned and operated, boasting unparalleled views and 200,000 litres of fresh, filtered water entering each pool daily.
Scenic nature trails wind through the hot springs, taking visitors to the new Kuskanax Footbridge and the historic original Hot Springs site. For those up for a longer day hike, there’s a trail that leads to the scenic Kimbol Lake.
After soaking in the natural mineral pools, you can unwind at the nearby Arrow Lakes or head to the Kuskanax River for some canoeing, kayaking, bird watching, and fishing.
During the summer months, there’s a campground beside Kuskanax Creek that’s open to visitors, who can choose between a spacious RV, a tenting campground, or one of their rustic Cedar Chalets, all just steps away from the hot spring pools.
Natural mineral springs feed into two public pools surrounded by lush forest. The Hot Pool is kept at 41°C in the winter and 38°C in the summer, while the Warm Pool is kept at 38°C in the winter and 36°C in the summer.
How much does it cost to use the hot springs?
It’s generally $14 to $15 per dip, or $22 for all-day access to the hot springs. On Winter Wednesdays (Nov. 1 to March 31, 2027), it costs $8.50 per swim.
The hot springs are currently open from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
You can also opt to camp overnight for $25 to $42 per night.
Things to do and see in Nakusp
Outside of the hot springs sits one of the oldest operating hotels in B.C., in addition to a myriad of quaint B&Bs and newly renovated hotels to choose from.
Nakusp and Arrow Lakes notes that even if you’re not staying at the historic Leland Hotel, it’s worth checking out the quirky building and its top-notch restaurant patio.
As you roam the charming streets of Nakusp on the Waterfront Walkway, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and downtown shops.
During the fall and winter months, Nakusp is adorned with blankets of snow and a moderate climate that’s perfect for winter activities such as cross-country skiing, tobogganing, snowshoeing, and heli and cat-skiing.
So there you have it, explorers. One of B.C.’s best-kept secrets is just a road trip away.
How to get there: Drive seven hours and 40 minutes from Vancouver to Nakusp via BC-6.
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