This Hidden Hot Spring in Canada Lets Visitors Swim Through a Steamy Cave
Imagine slipping into a pool of warm mineral water, ready to bask in the restorative warmth. Except, you soon discover there is quite literally more to it than meets the eye. In fact, it leads straight into a steamy underground cave.
That’s exactly what visitors can experience at an unusual hot spring tucked into the mountains of British Columbia.
Welcome to Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort. Situated along the shores of Kootenay Lake, this resort boasts a horseshoe-shaped passage that stretches 150 feet through rock. Visitors can wade through the warm water beneath the cave’s mineral-coated walls before emerging back into the open air.
The attraction has been drawing visitors for generations, and videos shared on social media continue to captivate and introduce new audiences to its unique swimming experience.
There is also an interesting history behind the cave itself, which has connections to the area’s former mining industry and the Indigenous people who have long valued its waters.
According to Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism, the resort is located about 45 minutes from Nelson and 15 minutes from Kaslo. Its hot springs are open year-round, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the steaming mineral waters even during British Columbia’s chilly winters.
A Thrilling Cave With a Surprising History
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Mineral water flows naturally from deep beneath the mountains. Eventually, it emerges near the shores of Kootenay Lake. According to Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, the water enters its system at approximately 117 degrees Fahrenheit before being cooled to an average of 108 degrees for the cave.
Visitors can wade their way through the horseshoe-shaped passage, warm water and rising steam creating an experience quite unlike an ordinary swimming pool. Along the way, mineral formations decorate the rocky walls, and subtle lighting helps illuminate the route.
The cave also has roots in the region’s mining history. As BritishColumbia.com explains, miners carved tunnels in the area while attempting to increase the flow of hot water. Over time, mineral deposits accumulated along the rock, contributing to the cave’s distinctive appearance.
The hot springs eventually became a tourist attraction, and the resort’s official history dates the completion of its early pools and caves to the 1930s. Back then, visitors could enjoy a swim for just 10 cents.
A Historic Hot Spring
Long before the resort welcomed tourists, the Ktunaxa people used the hot springs for rest and healing. According to Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort‘s official history, they called the waters nupika wu’u, or Spirit Waters, and visited them after hunting, fishing, and gathering food. Warriors also traditionally soaked in the springs to soothe wounds sustained in battle.
The site’s cultural significance endures to this day. Indigenous Tourism BC writes that the property is owned by the Lower Kootenay Band, also known as Yaqan Nukiy, which purchased the resort in 2015.
The resort’s current admission information lists adult pool access at CAD $18, and day visitors are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations. Public pools are open Wednesday through Monday, with the resort closed to day visitors on Tuesdays. The property also offers overnight accommodations for guests who want to spend more time exploring the surrounding Kootenay region.
