Fording Mountain Warm Springs

## Overview Fording Mountain Warm Springs is a free natural hot spring located in the Canadian Rockies of southeastern British Columbia, near the border with Alberta. Situated at approximately 49.994°N, 114.898°W, this warm spring sits in a remote mountainous area along the Fording River valley — a region known for its rugged terrain, abundant wildlife, and geothermal activity tied to the deep fault systems of the Rocky Mountain Front Ranges. The Elk Valley and Fording River corridor of British Columbia's Kootenay region hosts several geothermal features, and Fording Mountain Warm Springs is one of the lesser-known among them. Unlike the more commercialized hot springs in the area, this site remains undeveloped and free to access, offering a more raw and secluded soaking experience for adventurous visitors. The warm water here is believed to emerge along geological fractures in the sedimentary rock of the Fording Mountain area, heated by geothermal gradients deep beneath the surface. Water temperatures at undeveloped warm springs in this part of British Columbia can vary seasonally and by flow rate, so visitors should be prepared for anything from lukewarm to moderately warm water depending on conditions. As with all wild hot springs, the water has not been officially tested or treated — visitors have historically used it for soaking, but its potability and mineral content have not been formally verified. ## Directions 1. From the town of Elkford, British Columbia, head southeast on Fording River Road (also known as the Fording Mine Road), following the Fording River upstream into the mountains. 2. Continue along the road as it winds through the Fording River valley. The road is primarily used for industrial (mining) access and may be unpaved and rough in sections — a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. 3. The GPS coordinates for the spring are **49.994278, -114.898281**. Use a reliable GPS device or offline mapping app, as cell service is extremely limited in this area. 4. Watch for any access restrictions or signage related to active mining operations in the Fording River coal mining area. Road access may be limited during certain times or require permission. 5. The spring is located in a remote backcountry setting — be prepared for variable road conditions, especially during spring snowmelt or after heavy rain. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates and general knowledge of the area. Visitors are encouraged to check current road conditions and access status before heading out, as mining activity can affect road availability.* ## What to Expect Fording Mountain Warm Springs is a backcountry destination suited for experienced outdoor enthusiasts comfortable with remote, undeveloped sites. The surrounding landscape is classic Rocky Mountain wilderness — steep forested slopes, alpine meadows at higher elevations, and the rocky drainage of the Fording River nearby. The spring itself is undeveloped, meaning there are no changing facilities, maintained pools, or amenities. Visitors typically find a natural seep or small pool where warm water emerges from the ground. Depending on the season and recent weather, the flow and temperature may vary. Spring and early summer can bring higher water levels in the surrounding river, which may affect access. This area is prime grizzly and black bear habitat, so proper bear awareness practices are essential — carry bear spray, make noise on approach, and store food securely. The region is also home to elk, mountain goats, and other wildlife. Because of its remote location near active coal mining operations (Teck Resources' Fording River Operations), visitors should be aware that road access may be restricted or require checking in at a gate. It's wise to inquire locally in Elkford about current access conditions before making the trip. The best time to visit is typically mid-summer through early fall, when roads are most passable and weather conditions are most favorable. Winter access would be extremely challenging and is not recommended without proper backcountry winter travel equipment and experience.