Overview
Tsek (Skookumchuck), a hot springs site with clear stewardship
Tsek is the Indigenous place name for the springs site in the Lillooet River valley, east of Lillooet Lake. BC Geographical Names lists it as an official “Springs” feature and notes it as an Indigenous place name. This is one of those hot springs where the cultural and land context is part of the visit, not a footnote.
What matters for trip planning
The official operator site currently states “Temporarily Closed” and also posts “No Trespassing.” That changes the entire plan: you should not attempt to access the tubs while closure is in place. If you’re building a Pemberton or Whistler trip and hoping to soak, treat Tsek as a “watch for reopening” option, not a sure thing.
When it is operating
The operator site describes policies for using the tubs (like no glass and staying out of the source pool), and provides detailed driving directions via Highway 99, Lillooet Lake, and the In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road. The last stretch is remote, and you need to arrive prepared, not casually.
Location & Access
Where it is
BC Geographical Names places Tsek on the east side of the Lillooet River valley, between Harrison and Lillooet Lakes, near the Skookumchuck area in BC.
Status first
The operator site currently lists the hot springs as temporarily closed and states no trespassing. Verify the current status on the official website before you plan anything else, and do not enter during closure.
Driving approach
The operator directions route you north from Whistler through Pemberton, toward Lillooet Lake, then onto the In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road. The site warns the road is narrow in places, windy, and may have potholes, with extra care needed in winter weather.
What to bring (when open)
The operator advises coming prepared like any camping trip, including basics like towels, food, and toilet paper. I’d add: extra water, a headlamp if there’s any chance of being late, and a full-size spare tire because the approach is remote.
Seasonality
Even if the tubs are open, road conditions can change fast after rain or snow. Treat the approach like a backroad trip and keep your turnaround time conservative.
Suitability & Accessibility
Because the site is currently listed as closed, suitability is mostly about whether it should be on your itinerary at all. If you need a guaranteed soak on specific dates, don’t anchor your trip on Tsek until the operator confirms reopening.
Who it’s best for (when operating)
People who are comfortable on long forest roads and who can follow community rules without pushing boundaries. It’s a better fit for experienced BC road trippers than for first-time hot springs visitors.
Families
I would not treat this as an easy family hot springs day. The approach is long and remote, and policies matter. If you do go when it reopens, it’s more appropriate for older kids who can handle a quiet, rule-following soak, not for toddlers who want to splash.
Mobility realities
This is not an accessibility-forward setup. Expect uneven ground and outdoor tubs, plus a remote approach with limited support. If you need predictable surfaces and facilities, you’ll likely find it difficult even when open.
Expectations vs reality
Expect rustic conditions and a strong emphasis on respectful behavior. If you want a spa feel, this isn’t that. If you want a backroad soak with clear stewardship, this is the right mental frame.
Safety & Etiquette
Follow closure rules
The operator site states “Temporarily Closed” and “No Trespassing.” That means do not enter. Besides being disrespectful, it’s a safety risk in a remote area with limited help.
Road risk is the main hazard
When the site is open, the approach itself is the most common problem: potholes, narrow sections, winter conditions, and long distances without services. Drive slowly, carry a spare, and don’t rely on cell coverage.
On-site policies (when operating)
The operator policies include: no glass at the hot tubs, keep out of the source pool, and rinse feet before entering tubs. Those rules are practical, they reduce injuries, protect water quality, and prevent conflicts.
Wildlife and food storage
If you camp or picnic in this region, treat food storage seriously. Keep food and garbage secured and never leave it unattended. In bear country, a “quick snack break” can turn into a problem fast.
Hot water basics
Natural hot tubs can vary day to day. Test with a hand and ease in. Don’t mix alcohol with hot soaking, and if you feel dizzy, get out, cool down, and hydrate.
Etiquette
Keep voices low, keep the tubs clean, and follow local direction without argument. Places like this stay shareable only when visitors act like guests, not owners.
FAQs
Is Tsek Hot Springs open right now?
The official operator website lists the site as temporarily closed and also states no trespassing. Check the official page for any reopening updates before you plan a trip.
How do you get to Tsek Hot Springs from Whistler or Pemberton?
The operator provides detailed directions via Highway 99, past Pemberton and Lillooet Lake, then onto the In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road. It’s a long backroad approach, and the site warns about potholes and winter driving conditions.
What rules should you expect when it’s operating?
The operator policies include no glass at the hot tubs, staying out of the source pool, and rinsing feet before entering tubs. Plan to follow posted guidance closely.
Is this a good choice for a quick, easy soak?
Not really. Even when open, it’s a remote destination reached by long logging roads, so it works better as a deliberate day trip or overnight plan than as a casual add-on.
What should you pack if it reopens?
The operator advises coming prepared with basics like towels, food, and toilet paper. Add extra water, warm layers, and a conservative turnaround plan, the approach is remote and conditions can change.