If you are an adventure seeker looking for an off-the-beaten-path excursion, look no further than Pitt River Hot Springs. British Columbia’s best-kept secret, this little gem is not as well known or as popular as other Canadian hot springs in the area. Getting there can be difficult, but the rewards at the end are well worth the struggle to get there.
Pitt River Hot Springs is located a little outside of Vancouver. As there is no cell phone service once you start your journey, be sure to be prepared in advance in case of an emergency. Don’t go alone, and let someone who isn’t going know of a plan or a timeline. Remember, the Canadian wilderness is filled with amazing nature, sites, and animals, including bears.
Natural Hot Springs in British Columbia
Underdeveloped, the Pitt River Hot Springs is one of the most pristine and natural hot springs in all of Canada due to the difficulty of getting there. Free to use, there won’t be any facilities at the springs, so bring with you what you will need. There are 2 small pools with waterfalls perched on the bottom of a cliff, right beside the freezing turquoise waters of the Pitt River.
Lacking accommodations, camping is allowed as long as you are 100 meters from the springs themselves. The journey to the springs is an event in itself, and one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful natural views of Canada. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking/canoeing, biking, camping, and soaking in the hot springs on just this one adventure alone.
Getting There
Visiting Pitt River Hot Springs is not an easy task, and there is some planning involved before you start your journey. There are a few different ways of getting to the hot springs:
- Easiest route | Drive, Boat, Bike, and Climb
- Cheapest, but longest route| Drive, Canoe, Bike, and Climb
- Most expensive route | Helicopter (~$3000)
First, drive on Laughland Highway, towards Pitt River and Pitt Lake. You can only go so far with a vehicle and must convert to either a boat or canoe. This decision will determine how long your adventure will take. A canoe will be the cheapest option, but also the longest. Also, keep in mind, that you are going to need bikes on your journey.
Finding a boat can be tricky and pricey unless you plan ahead. Boat rides from locals can cost anywhere from $150-$400 and you’ll need to be dropped at the North End Pier, where you’ll start your ride. The bike ride is going to be around 20km. It’s possible to walk, but the daylight hours will fade fast.
Going by canoe, you may not have access to the complete end of the pier, but there’s a logging bridge where you can safely leave your vessel. Since logging is popular in the area, there are usually people nearby willing to give directions. After a 28km bike ride, visitors will take a steep rope climb over the bank and down to the springs. There are 2 rope climbs available, and it takes about 5 minutes.
Details
Address: Pitt River FSR, Alvin, BC V0N 1T0, Canada
Season: Year-round | Check the weather before departure
Coordinates: 49.697,-122.71
Halfway (River) Hot Springs – Nakusp, BC, Canada