Overview
A hot spring feature in a protected wilderness, not a reliable soak
Dewar Creek is one of the best-known hot spring locations in the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy, but it’s important to be clear about what that means. BC Parks describes very hot water at the surface vents, too hot for bathing, and it has actively removed most constructed pools. So while people still talk about “soaking” here, you should plan it as a backcountry hot spring feature and mineral lick area, not a maintained bath.
What makes it different
This is a protected ecosystem where hot water and dissolved minerals create wildlife licks and a small, sensitive wet area that also supports rare plants. That’s the real value of the site. Human-built tubs, rock walls, and “improvements” are treated as damage, not amenities, and you shouldn’t expect them to remain.
Why it’s still a worthy objective
If you like long approaches, route finding, and places that feel properly remote, Dewar Creek delivers. The hike is part of the point. Go for the wilderness day (or multi-day) and treat any chance to sit in warm water as secondary, because conditions and management priorities can change.
Location & Access
Where it is
Dewar Creek hot springs are in Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Provincial Park, British Columbia, reached via the St. Mary’s Forest Service Road and the Dewar Creek road system described by BC Parks.
By car
Access starts with a long drive on forestry roads. BC Parks notes driving west on the St. Mary’s Forest Service Road to a junction, then following the Dewar Creek road to the end, with the last kilometres described as very rough and better suited to high-clearance vehicles. Conditions change with weather and maintenance, so treat travel times as flexible.
On foot
BC Parks describes an approach on an old outfitting trail, with multiple hours of hiking and some route decisions depending on whether you’re on foot or horseback. Expect creek crossings, rough tread, and the need to read terrain, this is not a signed, groomed trail system.
Seasonality
BC Parks notes rivers may be impassable during flood season, often until late July, and that the park has no facilities or marked trails and is not regularly maintained. In practical terms, early season can be a hard no, and shoulder season requires real judgment.
What to bring
Bear spray, layers, headlamp, emergency gear, and enough food and water for a long day. Gloves matter if you plan to use any cable car crossings elsewhere in the park. Bring a map you can use offline and the skills to back it up.
Suitability & Accessibility
Dewar Creek suits experienced backcountry travelers who are comfortable being self-sufficient and turning around when conditions don’t line up. It’s not a casual “hot springs hike,” even if it shows up that way on social media.
Families
Not a good fit for most families. The drive is long, the trail is rough, and the setting has real wildlife and water hazards. Teens with strong hiking experience could handle it with the right adult leadership, but this is not a beginner objective.
Mobility and accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. Expect natural surfaces, steep and uneven sections, and creekside terrain. If you need predictable footing or step-free access, choose a developed hot spring location instead.
Expectations vs reality
The “soak” aspect is uncertain. BC Parks describes the vent water as too hot for bathing and has removed most constructed pools. Plan your trip so it still feels worth it even if you do not soak at all.
Trip style that works best
Overnight hikers who can camp legally in appropriate zones (and follow current park guidance) often have a better experience than day-trippers rushing a long approach. Either way, build in margin for the drive, the hike, and weather.
Safety & Etiquette
Scalding water and unstable edges
BC Parks states hot water at the vents can be above 80°C and too hot for bathing. Treat any visible inflow as a burn risk. Don’t dig channels, don’t “improve” edges, and keep kids and pets well away from vent areas.
Wildlife comes first here
BC Parks describes the mineral spring area as critical wildlife licks used by multiple ungulates, especially in late spring and early summer, which in turn supports predators like grizzly bears. That’s your cue to travel quietly, keep distance, and leave if animals are present. This is not a place to push for photos.
No pool building
BC Parks has removed constructed pools and continues to remove new construction. Don’t add rocks, logs, liners, or valves. If you find a pool, treat it gently and accept that it may not be there next season.
Backcountry safety basics
Carry a real first aid kit, a way to make fire in wet conditions, and a plan for being out longer than expected. Creek levels can change fast after rain. If water looks pushy, don’t force crossings.
Leave-no-trace, applied
Pack out everything. No soap in pools or creeks. Camp only where permitted, keep food secured, and avoid trampling wet bog areas around the springs. The site recovers slowly, and heavy foot traffic does obvious damage.
FAQs
Can you soak at Dewar Creek Hot Springs?
Don’t count on it. BC Parks describes the vent water as too hot for bathing and has removed most constructed pools. Treat it as a wilderness hot spring feature where soaking may be limited or not available.
Do you need a 4WD vehicle to reach the trail?
High clearance is strongly recommended for the final rough stretch described by BC Parks. Road conditions change, so check recent reports and be willing to stop early if the road deteriorates.
How long is the hike?
BC Parks describes an approach that takes several hours (often talked about as roughly 3 to 4 hours one way), depending on conditions and route choices near creek crossings.
What time of year works best?
Flood season and high water can make access unsafe into mid-summer. Late summer into early fall is often more practical, but weather can turn quickly in the Purcells. Always plan with margin.
Are there facilities, toilets, or maintained trails?
No. BC Parks notes the park has no facilities or marked trails and is not regularly maintained. You need backcountry skills, proper gear, and a conservative plan.