Burton Creek Hot Springs

## Overview Burton Creek Hot Springs is a remote, free-access natural hot spring located in the rugged coastal wilderness of northwestern British Columbia, Canada. Situated at approximately 54.948°N, 129.809°W, the springs lie in the traditional territories of the Tsimshian First Nations, in a region renowned for its geothermal activity and dramatic Pacific Northwest landscapes. This area of British Columbia — near the communities along the Douglas Channel and the North Coast — is home to several geothermal features fed by deep geological faulting and volcanic activity associated with the Pacific Ring of Fire. Burton Creek Hot Springs is one of a number of natural thermal pools scattered across this remote stretch of coastline, where heated groundwater rises along fractures in the bedrock to emerge at the surface. Due to its isolated location, Burton Creek Hot Springs sees relatively few visitors, making it an appealing destination for adventurous hot spring enthusiasts, backcountry explorers, and kayakers navigating the coastal waterways of northern BC. ## Directions 1. Burton Creek Hot Springs is located in a remote area of northwestern British Columbia, roughly between Kitimat and Prince Rupert along the coast. 2. Access is most commonly achieved by boat or floatplane, as there are no maintained road routes leading directly to the springs. 3. The GPS coordinates (54.948442, -129.80896) place the springs near the coast — paddlers and boaters should use marine charts and GPS navigation to locate the creek drainage. 4. If approaching by water, look for the Burton Creek drainage along the shoreline and follow the creek inland to the hot spring source. 5. Due to the remoteness and lack of established trails, visitors should be well-prepared with topographic maps, reliable GPS, appropriate gear for coastal wilderness travel, and provisions for changing weather conditions. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates provided and general knowledge of the area. Visitors are strongly encouraged to seek up-to-date local information before attempting the trip.* ## What to Expect Burton Creek Hot Springs is a true backcountry destination. Visitors should expect a wild, undeveloped setting with no facilities, signage, or maintained trails. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense temperate rainforest, mossy creek banks, and the dramatic terrain typical of British Columbia's North Coast. The hot spring water emerges naturally along the creek, and soaking opportunities may vary depending on water levels, seasonal rainfall, and the condition of any informal pools that previous visitors may have constructed from rocks. Water temperatures at BC coastal hot springs in this region can range widely, so testing the water before entering is advisable. Wildlife is abundant in this part of BC — bears (both black and grizzly), wolves, and eagles are commonly seen. Visitors should practice proper bear safety and leave-no-trace principles. Weather along the North Coast can be unpredictable, with heavy rain possible at any time of year. Because of its remoteness, Burton Creek Hot Springs offers a rare sense of solitude and connection with the natural world that is hard to find at more accessible hot spring destinations.