Radium Hot Springs, Canada

What it is

Radium Hot Springs Pools is a Parks Canada facility tucked into Sinclair Canyon at the southern edge of Kootenay National Park. It is a developed complex with a hot soaking pool and a cooler swimming pool, so it works for mixed groups where not everyone wants the same water temperature.

Why it stands out

This is one of the most “no surprises” hot springs stops in the Canadian Rockies. You are not gambling on river levels, trail conditions, or whether the pools were damaged by runoff. You show up, change, and soak.

Good to know

Because it is right off Highway 93, Radium can be busy during summer weekends and holiday travel days. If you can, aim for quieter windows outside peak afternoon traffic.

Where it is

Parks Canada notes the pools are located just inside Kootenay National Park, about 3 km east of the Village of Radium Hot Springs.

Getting there

The approach is paved and signed from Highway 93. Parks Canada publishes GPS coordinates for the pools, and there are parking areas on both sides of the highway. A pedestrian underpass connects the main parking area to the facility ramp, which matters if you are traveling with kids or mobility aids.

What to bring

Bring swimwear, a towel, and a water bottle. In cooler months, plan for a cold walk between the bathhouse and your car, and keep dry layers ready for after your soak. If you are visiting on a long-drive day, having sandals or slip-on shoes makes the transition in and out of the facility easier.

Best for

Radium is well suited to road trippers, families, and anyone who wants a managed soak without committing to a hike. The separate cool pool is useful if you overheat easily or if someone in your group prefers a swim over a long hot soak.

Accessibility

Parks Canada notes the facility has ramp access from parking and an elevator to reach pool level. Personal wheelchairs are not permitted in the spring water, but Parks Canada provides an aquatic wheelchair on request, and there are accessible change rooms available.

Expectations vs reality

This is a public pool setting in a national park, not a wilderness spring. If your ideal soak is quiet and natural, you may want a different style of hot spring, but if you want reliable access and amenities, Radium delivers.

Heat management

Hot pools can cause overheating, especially after a long drive when you are dehydrated. Drink water, take breaks, and use the cooler pool as a reset. If you feel faint, get out immediately and cool down.

Clean pool behavior

Shower before entering if possible and keep food, drink, and glass away from the pool deck. Do not spit or rinse anything into the water. Keep footwear on until you are at the pool edge to avoid slips.

Respect space and access routes

Radium has ramps, underpass access, and an elevator, so avoid blocking pathways with bags or strollers. Give extra room at handrails and steps where people queue to enter and exit the water.

Where exactly is Radium Hot Springs Pools?

Parks Canada notes the pools are 3 km east of Radium Hot Springs village, just inside Kootenay National Park, with published GPS coordinates.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Parks Canada notes ramps, elevator access, accessible change rooms, and an aquatic wheelchair available on request. Personal wheelchairs are not permitted in the water.

Do I need reservations?

Parks Canada notes entry is first-come, first served for their hot springs facilities and reservations are not available.

Do I need a park pass?

The pools are inside a national park, and Parks Canada notes visitors require a park pass when stopping to use services and facilities within national parks.