Overview
What it is
Nakusp Hot Springs is a developed, forest-set pool facility up the Kuskanax Valley from the Village of Nakusp. It is a classic “drive in, change, soak” setup rather than a natural river pool.
Verified pool temperatures
The Village of Nakusp publishes typical temperatures: the Hot Pool is kept around 41°C (107°F) in winter and about 38°C (103°F) in summer, with a Warm Pool that sits a bit cooler depending on season. This is useful for planning if someone in your group runs hot.
Maintenance closures
The official Nakusp Hot Springs site posts seasonal maintenance closures (including spring and fall dates). If you are traveling far, check those notices right before you commit.
Location & Access
Where it is
Nakusp Hot Springs is outside Nakusp in the Kuskanax Valley. You reach it by road, and there is no hike required to get to the pools.
Driving notes
The approach is generally straightforward, but you are in a mountain valley where weather can change quickly. In shoulder seasons, expect cold mornings and wet roads, and plan your drive so you are not rushing back after dark.
What to bring
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sandals with grip. A water bottle is worth having even for short visits. If you plan to stay longer, pack a warm layer for cooling off between soaks and for the walk back to your car.
Suitability & Accessibility
Best for
This is best for travelers who want a managed soak with predictable access, plus the option of staying on site in chalets or nearby camping. It is also a good stop if you are exploring the Arrow Lakes area and want an easy recovery soak at the end of a drive day.
Families
Nakusp can work well for families because you are not balancing kids on a slippery riverbank. The trade-off is that it is a shared, public setting and can feel busy at peak times.
Accessibility note
Without a current, official pool-accessibility guide in the sources above, mark expectations carefully. Assume standard wet-surface challenges and confirm details directly if you need step-free entry or specific change room features.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat management
Even if the temperatures look manageable, it is easy to overdo it. Drink water and take breaks. If you are soaking with kids, keep sessions short and watch for flushed skin and fatigue.
Pool etiquette
Shower before entering when possible and keep food and drink away from pool edges unless explicitly allowed. Keep voices down and do not block access points where others are entering and exiting.
Driving after soaking
After a long soak, you can feel sleepy and dehydrated. Cool down, dry off fully, and give yourself a few minutes before driving back down the valley.
FAQs
How hot are the pools at Nakusp?
The Village of Nakusp states the Hot Pool is typically around 41°C (107°F) in winter and about 38°C (103°F) in summer, with the Warm Pool cooler depending on season.
Are there seasonal closures?
Yes. The official Nakusp Hot Springs site posts scheduled spring and fall maintenance closures. Check the notices before you travel.
Do I need to hike to reach the pools?
No. Nakusp Hot Springs is road-accessible with a short walk on site.
Is it a natural river hot spring?
No. This is a developed pool facility using hot mineral spring water.