Curator’s statement
A road trip from Vancouver, across the Crows Nest Pass to British Columbia’s Kootenays, and up into Banff National Park feels like a journey through pure wilderness and wonder. You’ll soak in hidden hot springs where steam curls into the alpine air, surrounded by mountains that feel both timeless and alive. The roads wind past glacier lakes, cedar forests, and dramatic peaks, each turn revealing a view that steals your breath—a gift of the present moment. It’s a mix of adventure and serenity—freedom found in spaces where the wild still rules.
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Where to stay in British Columbia, Canada
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Things to do in British Columbia, Canada
An early morning at the hot spring-fed pools at Fairmont Hot Spring Resort
Harrison Hot Springs (near Vancouver): A well-known resort-style destination just east of Vancouver, offering multiple indoor and outdoor pools. Access is primarily for resort guests, though there’s also a public aquatic facility using the same naturally heated waters.
Through the Kootenays (via Crowsnest Pass): Starting your journey east through Crowsnest Pass into southeastern BC, you'll pass through the heart of the Kootenay Rockies—home to several must-see hot springs:
Radium Hot Springs
Nestled at the entrance to Kootenay National Park, this easily accessible spot features large mineral pools and spa facilities.Fairmont Hot Springs
A full-service resort with Canada’s largest natural mineral hot pools, golf courses, and lodging options.Lussier Hot Springs
A beautiful, rustic spot in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park. Four rock-lined pools beside the Lussier River—more natural and less developed, accessed via a forest service road.St. Leon Hot Springs
A more remote site off Highway 23 featuring a concrete pool and rock grotto—an adventurous soak reachable via forest service roadsBanff Upper Hot Springs (Banff National Park, near end of route)
A conveniently located public hot spring high on Sulphur Mountain, offering spectacular views over the Bow River Valley and the town of Banff.
Suggested road trip order:
1. Vancouver (via Crowsnest Highway/Highway 3)
2. Ainsworth Hot Springs (offshoot via Highway 31)
3. Loop through Halcyon and Nakusp Hot Springs near Arrow Lakes
4. Up through the Purcell/Kootenay Ranges to Lussier Hot Springs
5. Continue north to Fairmont Hot Springs
6. Cross into Kootenay National Park for Radium Hot Springs
7. Finally arrive at Banff Upper Hot Springs in Banff National Park
Places to eat & drink in British Columbia, Canada
Breathtaking views from Sky Bistro allow you to experience fine dining up in the clouds
Day 1: Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs (2 hrs)
Hot Springs: Harrison Hot Springs Resort: Soak in five mineral pools (both indoor and outdoor) with mountain and lake views. Staying overnight gives you full access to the resort’s pools.
Food: The Copper Room (Harrison Hot Springs Resort): A classic dining experience with live music and an elegant atmosphere. Perfect for settling into “vacation mode.”
Day 2: Harrison to Crowsnest Pass
Food: Twin Butte General Store: Rustic Mexican food, hearty portions, and live music if you’re lucky.
Day 3: Crowsnest Pass to Nelson / Ainsworth
Hot Springs: Ainsworth Hot Springs: Soak in the unique caves where mineral water steams into the crisp mountain air.
Food: Leos Pizza & Greek Taverna (Nelson): Casual, cozy, and perfect for recharging after the springs, with their legendary lasagna or hearty pizza.
Day 4: Nelson to Nakusp / Arrow Lakes
Hot Springs: Halcyon Hot Springs: Pools perched high above Upper Arrow Lake, with mountain reflections at sunset.
Food: Kingfisher Restaurant (Halcyon Resort): Refined West Coast cuisine paired with unbeatable lake views.
Day 5: Nakusp to Radium Hot Springs
Hot Springs: Radium Hot Springs: Soak in big mineral pools surrounded by the cliffs of Sinclair Canyon.
Food: Steamboat Lounge & Forage: Contemporary small plates and cocktails, a favorite in the Columbia Valley.
Day 6: Radium to Banff
Hot Springs: Banff Upper Hot Springs: Canada’s most iconic alpine soak, with sweeping views over the Bow Valley.
Food: Sky Bistro (Banff Gondola): Dine literally above the clouds with Canadian-inspired dishes after your soak.
Day 7: Explore Banff National Park
Hot Springs: Optional revisit to Banff Upper or nearby scenic hikes instead.
Food: Bear Street Tavern: Cap off your adventure with Banff’s most beloved pizza and a local craft beer. Casual, celebratory, and fun.
Need to know
Tips for planning:
Accessibility: Ainsworth, Fairmont, and Radium are more developed and easy to reach. Lussier requires a manageable walk, while Halcyon and Nakusp offer a rustic charm with nearby accommodations.
Chain route flow: Position your stops to minimize backtracking—Ainsworth and Nakusp are slightly off the direct Crowsnest to Banff path but richly rewarding.
Diverse experiences: From cave pools (Ainsworth) and lakeside resort sprawl (Halcyon, Fairmont) to natural riverside soaking (Lussier), each offers something unique.
Prioritize comfort: Road trips aren’t just for budget travelers. Prioritizing comfortable, high-end accommodations like Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort will make it truly a trip to remember.
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