Kinbasket Lake (Canoe River) Hot Springs

## Overview Kinbasket Lake (Canoe River) Hot Springs is a remote, free-access natural hot spring located in the rugged wilderness of British Columbia, Canada, near the headwaters of the Canoe River along the shores of Kinbasket Lake. Situated at approximately 52.629°N, 118.992°W, this hot spring lies in the Columbia Mountains region, an area known for its geothermal activity fed by deep geological faults in the Canadian Rockies. Kinbasket Lake itself is a large reservoir created by the Mica Dam on the Columbia River, completed in 1973. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense boreal forest, towering mountain peaks, and pristine backcountry — making this hot spring a true wilderness destination. The area has historically been part of the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples, including the Secwépemc (Shuswap) Nation, who have long known and used the thermal waters of the region. Due to its extremely remote location, this hot spring sees very few visitors and remains in a largely natural, undeveloped state. It is best suited for experienced backcountry travelers comfortable with off-grid navigation and self-sufficiency. ## Directions 1. The hot spring is located on the eastern shore of Kinbasket Lake, near where the Canoe River feeds into the reservoir. 2. GPS coordinates: **52.628895, -118.991547**. A reliable GPS device or satellite navigation app (such as Gaia GPS or AllTrails with offline maps) is strongly recommended. 3. Access is typically by boat via Kinbasket Lake, launching from one of the limited boat launches along the reservoir (such as those near Valemount, BC, or off Highway 5). 4. Overland access may be possible via logging roads and backcountry trails, but conditions vary seasonally and roads may be decommissioned or gated. Check with local forestry offices or the Valemount Visitor Centre for current road status before attempting overland travel. 5. There is no established, maintained trail to the hot spring. Be prepared for bushwhacking and challenging terrain. *Note: These directions are based on GPS coordinates and general geographic knowledge of the area. They have not been independently verified against a specific trail guide or official source. Visitors should confirm access routes locally before setting out.* ## What to Expect Kinbasket Lake (Canoe River) Hot Springs is a true backcountry hot spring experience. Expect a wild, undeveloped setting with no facilities, signage, or maintained infrastructure. The thermal water emerges naturally from the ground, and soaking pools — if present — are likely to be informal, visitor-built rock pools that may shift or disappear with seasonal flooding. The surrounding area offers stunning mountain and lake scenery, with opportunities for wildlife viewing (bears, moose, and eagles are common in the region). The best time to visit is typically during the warmer months (June through September), when lake and road access are most feasible and snow levels are lower. Because of the remote location, visitors should come fully prepared with backcountry essentials: navigation tools, emergency supplies, food, water, and appropriate clothing for rapidly changing mountain weather. There is no cell service in the area. Leave a detailed trip plan with someone before heading out. Water temperature and flow can vary depending on the season and recent weather conditions. As with all natural hot springs, the mineral content and temperature of the water have not been officially tested or monitored — exercise caution when entering any geothermal water source.