Quick FactsOverview
About Halcyon Hot Springs
Halcyon Hot Springs, Canada is a paid year-round resort on the east shore of Upper Arrow Lake in British Columbia, on Highway 23 approximately 17 kilometres north of Nakusp. The resort is distinguished by its high-lithium mineral water, which emerges at between 51 and 54 degrees Celsius before being cooled and distributed across four pools: a hot pool, a warm pool with a jetted swim channel, a seasonal mineral swimming pool, and a cold plunge. The site overlooks Upper Arrow Lake with the Monashee Mountains as a backdrop.
The hot springs have a documented history from the late nineteenth century, when the land was developed by Captain Robert Sanderson in the early 1890s. The current resort was rebuilt in 1998 after the previous hotel burned down in 1955. The mineral water is notable for its lithium content, historically marketed for therapeutic purposes and once exported internationally in bottled form. Hot springs near Nakusp of this mineral richness are uncommon in British Columbia.
Today the resort includes chalets, cottages, and cabin accommodation, a restaurant and bar, and a full-service spa. The geothermal water also heats the lodge. Day visitors can access the pools on a limited drop-in basis, though overnight guests have pool access included with their stay.
Location & Access
Getting to Halcyon Hot Springs
Halcyon Hot Springs is reached by a direct drive on Highway 23, approximately 17 kilometres north of Nakusp on the east shore of Upper Arrow Lake, and the drive from Nakusp takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The resort address is 5655 Highway 23N, Nakusp, BC. There is no hiking required to reach the pools. The entrance is signed from the highway and parking is available on site.
From Revelstoke to the north, the drive south on Highway 23 takes approximately 45 minutes, passing through the Shelter Bay Ferry crossing over the Columbia River - a free crossing that operates on a regular schedule and is required for those coming from the Revelstoke direction. Visitors arriving from Nakusp to the south can drive directly without a ferry. From Nelson, the journey involves driving north via Highway 6 to Nakusp and then north on Highway 23, totalling approximately two hours.
For those travelling from the lower mainland or Vancouver, the resort is approximately five hours by road via several possible routes through the Interior. Public transit to the Nakusp area is limited and most visitors arrive by private vehicle. The resort is open year-round, though Highway 23 can experience winter road conditions including snow and ice between November and April. For those exploring hot springs in British Columbia as part of a broader Kootenay itinerary, Halcyon is well-positioned along the Arrow Lakes highway corridor between Revelstoke and Nakusp.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Halcyon Hot Springs
Halcyon Hot Springs suits couples, families, and solo travellers seeking a quiet lakeside resort experience with natural mineral pools, as the property combines accessible hot spring soaking with full accommodation, dining, and spa facilities in a remote but road-accessible setting. The pools are described as wheelchair accessible and the terrain at the resort is manageable for most guests. For visitors seeking accessible hot springs in Canada in a West Kootenay wilderness setting, Halcyon is one of the most complete resort options in the region.
Families are welcome and children can use the outdoor mineral swimming pool during its seasonal operation. The hot pool and warm pool are suitable for adults and older children comfortable with elevated water temperatures. The cold plunge is an optional contrast experience for those who want it. Dogs are welcome at the resort in pet-friendly accommodation areas but are not permitted in the pool zone.
Day visitors can access the pools on a limited drop-in basis without staying overnight, though capacity is restricted and advance enquiry is advisable. Overnight guests receive complimentary pool access. The resort requires a two-night minimum stay on Friday and Saturday nights. Those seeking a more active stay will find hiking trails both on the resort grounds and in the surrounding area, along with guided paddleboard tours, fishing, and proximity to snowmobile routes and cross-country skiing in winter. The resort's spa offers body treatments and facials for those seeking a full wellness programme.
Safety & Etiquette
Halcyon Hot Springs Safety Tips
Halcyon Hot Springs is generally safe for soaking, though visitors should note that the hot pool operates at an elevated temperature and the water has a notably high lithium content. Visitors on lithium-based medications or with sensitivity to mineral-rich water should consult a healthcare provider before soaking. Pregnant visitors and those with cardiovascular conditions or high blood pressure should also seek medical advice before using the hot pools.
The source water emerges at between 51 and 54 degrees Celsius and is cooled before entering the pools, which are maintained at different temperatures. Visitors should test each pool before entering. Extended soaking at elevated temperatures can cause dehydration and dizziness. Drinking water before and during a session and taking regular breaks is recommended.
The pool areas are accessible from the resort without significant steps or uneven terrain. Dogs are not permitted in or around the pool area. Proper swimwear is required in all pools. Overnight guests should confirm any specific access requirements with the resort in advance.
Highway 23 north of Nakusp can be subject to winter road conditions between November and April. Visitors travelling by car in winter should check road conditions before departure and carry appropriate supplies. The resort is in a relatively remote location and the nearest full-service town is Nakusp, approximately 17 kilometres to the south. Emergency services response times will be longer than in urban areas.
