Wildhorse Warm Springs

## Overview Wildhorse Warm Springs is a free natural hot spring located in the East Kootenay region of southeastern British Columbia, Canada, near the coordinates 49.810493, -115.481543. Situated in the rugged terrain of the Canadian Rockies, this warm spring offers a backcountry soaking experience in a remote and scenic mountain setting. The East Kootenay region is well known for its geothermal activity, with numerous hot and warm springs scattered along the Rocky Mountain Trench — a major geological fault system that allows heated groundwater to rise to the surface. Wildhorse Warm Springs is one of these lesser-known geothermal features, making it an appealing destination for adventurous hot spring enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds of more commercialized sites. The spring takes its name from the Wildhorse River area, which has a rich history tied to the 1860s gold rush in the East Kootenay. The Wildhorse Creek gold strike of 1863–1864 was one of British Columbia's earliest and most significant gold discoveries, drawing thousands of prospectors to the region. While the warm spring itself is not a major historical landmark, it exists within a landscape deeply shaped by mining history and Indigenous use stretching back thousands of years. ## Directions 1. The spring is located in southeastern British Columbia, roughly between the towns of Cranbrook and Kimberley. 2. Using the GPS coordinates **49.810493, -115.481543**, navigate toward the Wildhorse Creek area via local forestry roads. 3. Access is likely via gravel or dirt forestry service roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially during wet conditions or early in the season. 4. A GPS device or offline maps application is strongly recommended, as cell service in this area can be unreliable. 5. Be prepared for the possibility that the final approach may involve a short hike or walk-in, as remote springs in this region are not always directly road-accessible. *Note: These directions are approximate and based on the GPS coordinates provided. Visitors are encouraged to check current road conditions and access status before heading out, as forestry roads in the Kootenays can be seasonally gated or washed out.* ## What to Expect Wildhorse Warm Springs is a rustic, undeveloped hot spring in a remote backcountry setting. As a free and natural soak, there are no facilities, changing rooms, or maintained infrastructure on site. Visitors should come prepared with everything they need, including footwear suitable for uneven terrain. The water temperature at warm springs in this region typically ranges from lukewarm to moderately warm — generally cooler than the scalding hot springs found elsewhere in BC, but still pleasant for a relaxing soak, especially on a cool mountain day. The soaking pool, if present, is likely a natural or user-built rock pool where the warm water collects. The surrounding landscape features dense coniferous forest, mountain views, and the wild beauty characteristic of the East Kootenay backcountry. Wildlife is common in the area — including bears, deer, and elk — so visitors should take standard backcountry precautions such as making noise on the trail and storing food properly. Because this is a remote and undeveloped site, conditions can change seasonally. Spring runoff may affect water clarity and temperature, and access roads may not be passable in winter or early spring. Summer and early fall are generally the best times to visit. As with all natural springs, water quality has not been officially tested or guaranteed — visitors should use their own discretion regarding water contact and consumption.