Halfway Hot Springs Hike

The trail to the Halfway Hot Springs is a quick adventure in the Kootenays that will take you down to several man-made thermal pools where you can soak to your heart’s content and wash away any stress or fatigue. Due to the popularity of the hot springs and the nearby campground, this trail can become very busy. If you are looking to make your way to the hot springs as a day trip, be sure to arrive early enough to secure parking and beat out the crowds in order to stake your claim on one of the pools. This route also features a fairly steep set of stairs that could restrict mobility for some hikers. Additionally, those looking to access the area during the winter will need to park along the highway and hike the 11km into the trailhead due to snowy conditions.

Although they can become busy, the Halfway Hot Springs are truly an amazing experience that will allow you to rest your aching body in a beautifully scenic forest setting. The trail sets out from the road and passes through the campsite before descending through the forest along a steep set of stairs to the banks of the Halfway River. From here, hikers can relax in one of several man-made thermal pools while surrounded by the natural sights and sounds of the forest, as well as the tranquil flowing watts of the river. With such a serene setting, this is one short hike that you will not want to miss out on.

Setting out from the side of the road, the trail enters into the dense forest cover and passes by the Halfway Hot Springs Campsite before descending towards the river. This campsite is often packed with people looking to utilize the restorative waters of the hot springs, only adding to the popularity and busy nature of the trail.

As you pass through the tranquil forest atmosphere, you will begin to descend towards the thermal pools along a series of steep stairs built into the hillside. Less-mobile hikers might struggle with this portion of the hike, as there are no hand rails along the staircase.

Reaching the bottom of the steps, you will come to a bit of a clearing along the river’s edge, where you will find the thermal pools and a lean-to where you can place your belongings. After finding some free space at one of the pools, slip into the relaxing water and take in the natural beauty of your surroundings, as you soak by the edge of the river. Once you have had your fill of this amazing and restorative place, head back up the stairs and through the forest to return to the trailhead.