Ahousat (Flores Island) Warm Springs

## Overview The Ahousat Warm Springs, located on Flores Island off the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, are one of the most cherished natural hot springs on Canada's Pacific coast. Nestled within the traditional territory of the Ahousaht First Nation — part of the Nuu-chah-nulth peoples — these geothermally heated springs have been used and revered by Indigenous communities for generations. The springs sit near the remote community of Ahousat, accessible only by boat or floatplane, adding to their wild and unspoiled character. Flores Island lies within the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a region celebrated for its old-growth temperate rainforest, rugged coastline, and extraordinary biodiversity. The warm springs emerge along the shoreline, where naturally heated water pools among the rocks at or near the ocean's edge. Water temperatures have been reported to be comfortably warm — typically in the range of 30–40°C (86–104°F) — though conditions can vary with the tides and seasons. The mineral-rich waters have historically been valued by locals and visitors alike for relaxation and their reputed therapeutic qualities. The GPS coordinates for the springs are approximately 49.2696°N, 126.0761°W. ## Directions 1. **Getting to Tofino:** Begin your journey in Tofino, BC, which serves as the main gateway to Clayoquot Sound and Flores Island. Tofino is accessible by car via Highway 4 from Nanaimo or Port Alberni on Vancouver Island. 2. **Water taxi or floatplane to Ahousat:** From Tofino, take a water taxi or charter a floatplane to the community of Ahousat on Flores Island. Water taxi services depart regularly from Tofino's harbour; the boat ride takes roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on conditions. 3. **Trail to the warm springs:** From the village of Ahousat, follow the Wild Side Trail (also known as the Ahousaht Wild Side Heritage Trail) southward along the coast. The warm springs are located along this trail, approximately 4–5 km from the village. The trail passes through old-growth rainforest and along beautiful beaches. Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours of hiking each way, depending on pace and trail conditions. 4. **At the springs:** The warm springs are found along the rocky shoreline. At lower tides, natural pools form where the warm water collects and mixes with the cool ocean water, creating a memorable soaking experience. Timing your visit around low tide is recommended for the best pools. *Note: The Wild Side Trail can be muddy and rugged, especially during the rainy season. Sturdy footwear and rain gear are advisable. Visitors should also be aware that this is Ahousaht First Nation territory — please be respectful of the land, the community, and any posted guidelines.* ## What to Expect The Ahousat Warm Springs offer a truly remote and magical hot spring experience. The setting is spectacular: soaking in naturally heated pools while looking out over the open Pacific Ocean, surrounded by ancient rainforest and rocky coastline. The springs are entirely undeveloped, with no facilities, changing rooms, or services at the site — this is a backcountry experience. The pools are tide-dependent. At low tide, warm water collects in rocky depressions along the shore, creating comfortable soaking pools. At high tide, the ocean can wash over the springs entirely, so checking tide charts before your visit is essential. Water temperatures vary by pool and tidal conditions, but visitors have reported the water to be pleasantly warm and soothing. The hike along the Wild Side Trail is an attraction in its own right, passing through magnificent old-growth cedar and hemlock forest, across boardwalks, and along pristine sandy beaches. Wildlife sightings — including bald eagles, sea lions, and grey whales offshore — are common. Because of the remote location, visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. There is no cell service in the area. Some visitors choose to camp along the trail (with permission from the Ahousaht First Nation), turning the trip into an overnight adventure. Local guides from the Ahousat community may also be available and can enrich the experience with cultural and ecological knowledge of the area.