Located in the northern wilds of British Columbia, Liard Hot Springs is an oasis for travelers of the Alaska Highway, providing rest and respite. Its remote location keeps it from overwhelming popularity. But, those who do get a chance to visit often spread the news about its tranquil waters and restorative effects. Set in a mostly untouched wilderness, this place retains a touch of the wild compared to many other touristy hot springs. And that is all a part of the draw!
As an Alaskan born and raised, Liard Hot Springs was always an important stop on all our trips up and down the Alaska Highway. Located between Watson Lake (home of the famed sign forest) and Fort Nelson, it provides a welcome break from long days of driving. Open 24 hours a day and year-round, the second largest hot spring in Canada can be enjoyed in any season. However, I definitely profess a certain fondness for a good hot soak on a cold winter day.
Staying at Liard Hot Springs
Due to its remote location, there are only a few options for staying close to Liard Hot Springs. Adjacent to the Springs themselves, there is a Provincial Park campground available for those who can get by without hookups. With 53 wooded and private sites, we were able to pull in mid-afternoon without a reservation during our travels in early June 2018. Reservations are available May – September and may be helpful during the busiest part of the year or if arriving in the evening. We paid 26 CAD for one night. That price included two unlimited passes for the hot springs (normally 5 CAD each). There are unfortunately no pull-through sites in this campground, but there is an overflow lot across the road that may be another option for those who cannot back into a site.
Our beautiful campsite at the Provincial Park campground
For those who need hookups (or a room to stay in), there is a nearby Lodge with 33 RV sites. The max RV length is 70 feet and there is 15/30 amp electric available, as well as some pull through spots. The Lodge also has WIFI, which can be a big benefit as there is no cell service at the hot springs or in the provincial park campground.
Access to the Springs
If you are staying at the Provincial Park campground, the hot springs are an easy walk away. There is also a parking lot for day use guests, which we always utilized when traveling the Alaska Highway by car. The walk to the hot springs is on a raised boardwalk platform that winds through a variety of terrain, including beautiful boreal forest and warm water swamp. Seeing wildlife (including bears) is possible, so always stay aware of your surroundings. It is a bit of a walk (about 300 meters) from the day use area to the hot springs.
Facilities
After a scenic trek through the forest, Liard Hot Springs comes into view. The amenities are beautiful and rustic. Men’s and women’s changing and storage rooms are available. However, there is no running water so keep that in mind for after your soak. There are composting toilets available if needed. The lack of some creature comforts is easily surpassed by the beautiful and untouched surroundings.
The Hot Springs themselves are in the form of a river. The main source of heat is at the top of the river, and the water gets progressively cooler as it flows downstream. This system allows everyone to find the perfect temperature to enjoy the water. There is even a cool area downstream that works well for children. The water at the mouth of the river is quite hot, so be careful if you decide to brave it. A large deck platform extends from the changing rooms to the water to allow for easy access to whichever temperature water is desired.
The Hanging Gardens
If you want a bit of an additional adventure, there is a short hike at the top of the hot springs. An extension of the boardwalk will take you up to the nearby hanging gardens. It is quite close, but there are 54 steps to traverse up the hill. The terraced hillside is beautiful to see, and a pretty unique sight for this part of the world. Although it definitely isn’t necessary to fully enjoy Liard Hot Springs, it is a fun additional sight to check out.
If you are driving the Alaska Highway, I highly recommend a stop at Liard Hot Springs. It is a beautiful place to enjoy in any season. And, it can definitely be a welcome break from the road. Interested in other sites along the drive to Alaska? Check out my Canadian Crossings post about Banff and Jasper National Parks. Have you ever been to a hot springs? When is your favorite time of year to visit these marvels of nature? Let me know in the comments below!
