Larsen North & South Hot Springs

## Overview Larsen North & South Hot Springs are a pair of remote, natural geothermal springs located in the wilderness of northern British Columbia, Canada, at approximately 60.04°N, 125.47°W. Situated in the rugged landscape of the Northern Rockies, these free-access hot springs offer a rare and rewarding backcountry soaking experience for adventurous visitors willing to make the journey. The springs take their name from the Larsen Creek area and consist of two distinct source pools — commonly referred to as the North and South springs — each with its own character and temperature profile. Hot springs in this region of British Columbia are fed by geothermally heated groundwater that rises along deep fault lines in the underlying bedrock, a geological feature common throughout the Northern Rocky Mountain Trench. The remote location means these springs see relatively few visitors, preserving their wild and pristine character. ## Directions 1. The springs are located in a very remote area of northern British Columbia, near the Yukon border, at GPS coordinates **60.042904, -125.46936**. 2. Access typically requires a combination of backcountry driving on logging or resource roads and potentially hiking or boating, depending on seasonal conditions. 3. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended for any road approach in this region. 4. Due to the extreme remoteness, visitors should carry detailed topographic maps or a reliable GPS device loaded with the coordinates above, as cell service is virtually nonexistent in this area. 5. It is advisable to check current road and trail conditions locally before attempting the trip, as access routes in northern BC can be affected by washouts, snow, or seasonal closures. *Note: Specific turn-by-turn directions to these springs are not currently available. If you have visited and can share detailed route information, your contribution would be invaluable to future visitors.* ## What to Expect Larsen North & South Hot Springs are true wilderness hot springs. Expect a rugged, undeveloped setting with no facilities, signage, or maintained infrastructure. The soaking pools are natural formations, and water temperatures can vary between the North and South sources. As with many backcountry hot springs in British Columbia, the pools may be a mix of hot geothermal water and cooler creek or river water, allowing bathers to find a comfortable temperature. The surrounding landscape is characterized by boreal forest, mountain views, and the quiet solitude of Canada's far north. Wildlife is abundant in the region — bears, moose, and other large animals are common, so visitors should take appropriate precautions including carrying bear spray and storing food properly. Because of the remote location, visitors should be fully self-sufficient. Pack out all trash, bring adequate supplies, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. The best window for visiting is typically during the warmer months from June through September, though snow and cold temperatures can occur at any time of year at this latitude. The water from these geothermal sources has not been formally tested or certified for drinking. As with all wild hot springs, the mineral content and microbial conditions can vary, so the water should be treated as non-potable unless independently verified.