Both Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia are surrounded by majestic mountainous views and geothermal activity. If you’re heading to the great Canadian Rockies, don’t miss out on these spectacular hot springs closest to town.
The expansive Vancouver Metropolitan Area is home to more than 2.6 million residents, making it the largest in British Columbia, but only the third largest in Canada. It offers fast access to the Great Outdoors, and one of the best ski resorts in North America, Whistler Blackcomb; it sits just an hour and a half to the north.
So whether you’re looking for a reprieve from the bustling city streets or a soothing apres-ski activity, we’ve rounded up the hot springs nearby Vancouver, BC, Canada, listed from nearest to farthest:
Mineral Springs Resort – 82 km/51 mi (with a ferry)
The closest hot spring is Mineral Springs Resort on Salt Spring Island, which requires the use of the ferry from Long Harbour to Tesawwassen. This ocean-front wonderland, the only one of its kind in Canada, offers stays in cozy forest cabins heated by wood-burning stoves for the cold days and private sundecks for the warm ones.
Cabins sit on 29 acres of subtropical rainforest, and each is fitted with a two-person jetted mineral bathtub fed by the hot spring. While it feels secluded, there are several shops and dining options a short bike ride–or walk–away.
Bring a kayak or sit back and enjoy the view. There are plenty of activities to enjoy on or off the water, and all are best followed by a soothing mineral water soak.
Harrison Hot Springs Resort – 122 kilometers/76 miles
The Harrison Hot Springs Resort is a little over an hour from Vancouver and has a cabin-like aesthetic that fits in well in the wooded land surrounding it. It even sits on the edge of the lake it’s named after.
Five spring-fed pools are available to guests of all ages, each with high mineral content. Two are indoor “quiet zones” and range from 90℉ (32℃) to 103℉ (40℃). Outdoors, you’ll find an adults-only sitting pool at 90-95℉ (32-35℃), a family pool at 95℉ (35℃), and a lap pool at a cooler 87℉ (30℃).
Lodging options are spread amongst five buildings, some with views of Mount Breckenridge or the lake. Bring Fido, if you’d like; one entire wing of the hotel and all cottages are dog-friendly. For added relaxation, a full-service spa with a man-made waterfall at the entrance sets the tone. It offers massages on heated tables, facials, body wraps, and more.
When hunger strikes, wander over to one of four dining options on the property: a dining room, two cafes, a bar, and a lounge. Harrison has all of your meal—and snack—times covered starting with a breakfast buffet and ending with craft cocktails.
Scandinave Spa Whistler – 124 kilometers/77 miles
You might come for the skiing, but you’ll stay for the Scandinave Spa Whistler with postcard views in all directions. The water may not be sourced from a hot spring, but the hot and cold baths alternated with a rest in one of the many relaxation areas will accomplish the same relief of tension.
There are many ways to enjoy the hot—steam baths, a wood-burning sauna, a Finnish sauna—and cold—a Nordic waterfall and showers or cold plunge baths. Complete your circuit by resting in a seasonal hammock area, lounging near an outdoor fireplace, or actively recovering in the yoga studio. Each space has been designed down to the smallest detail.
As you might expect from any high-end spa, experienced massage therapists are on staff to take your relaxation to the max. A delightful bistro covers your dining needs, and water fountains and bottles for purchase encourage hydration throughout the property. Accommodations can be booked with off-site partner hotels.
Pitt River Hot Springs – 6 ½ hrs paddling + 21km/13 mi bike + short trek
Pitt River Hot Springs is for the adventure seeker, as it involves a drive, a boat and bike ride, and a decent trek to get to the final destination. Helicopter rides are also available albeit pricier. If you’re looking for some privacy, this is a great place to start. It goes without saying that you should go in with any supplies you need, and be prepared to lose cell service.
Two small pools with waterfalls are at the bottom of a cliff on the Pitt River. There are no facilities, but camping is allowed anywhere as long as you’re 100 meters or more away from the springs. Spend the night under the stars and prepare for a weekend of hiking, canoeing, biking, and of course, soaking in the healing waters of the hot springs.
Clear Creek Hot Springs – 188 kilometers/117 miles
A bit further outside Vancouver, you find Clear Creek Hot Springs, a rural spot with two spring-fed tubs and a bathtub. Water temperature is easily adjustable using valves on each.
To get there, a 4×4 with high clearance is recommended, especially in the winter, due to the rough forest service road required to get there. Watch out for waterfalls!
Hiking the 14.8-mile out-and-back path is challenging but can usually be completed in around eight hours if you prefer to walk. Though you’ll want to add time to soak in the tubs and enjoy the scenic views all the way up the trail. Hiking and mountain biking are best from April through the end of September.
There’s no shortage of outdoor entertainment in and around Vancouver and Whistler. Whether it’s ski season or mountain bike season, these mineral hot springs will be waiting for your post-workout recovery. If you’re heading beyond British Columbia, consider the rest of Canada’s hot springs for your vacation planning.
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