Waking up at dawn for hiking to see the sunrise. Then enjoy drinks while floating away in the pool. Heading for a spa in the evening. And ending the night with a campfire and music. This is how I’d describe my perfect weekend. If you are looking for a weekend getaway to find peace in chaos away from the city lights, then I am sure hot springs will sound like an amazing idea to you.
One hot spring I’d recommend is the Radium Hot Springs Pool. It is a therapeutic natural hot spring situated on the western side of Canada in British Columbia. I must tell you the different to enjoy and relax at this unique spot.
Soak in the Hot Springs Pools
The first obvious thing to do around the area is to soak in the hot springs pools. There are both hot and cold pools. The hot pool water temperature can vary from 37 to 40 degrees. The cool pool water is somewhat cooler. The temperature here is normally around 29 degrees. Though you are advised to arrive prepared with your towels, one can rent towels at Radium Hot Springs. Rental swimsuits are also available. The pools have a diving board, change rooms, lockers, and a snack bar.
The cooler pool size is perfect for swimming laps. And the hot soaking pool makes the perfect next thing on the list. Both pools are well-maintained and clean. Radium hot springs are open year-round for fun with your family.
The place is disabled-friendly and suitable for those with difficulty with multiple stairs. The staff has done an excellent job making this hot spring pool accessible to everyone. Radium hot springs are the perfect place to experience a relaxing, refreshing, and medicinal environment. I strongly recommend spending a few hours in the hot pool for the perfect experience.
Fishing in National Parks
Fishing is the most popular activity near the hot springs pools. You can enjoy catch-and-release fishing or cook them up for dinner. Believe me, guys, it will be great fun!! However, you should know that negotiating rough terrain will be difficult, but the expedition is worth it. Fishing in these areas requires a national park permit or Parks Canada license. Each park has regulations, permits, and licenses, so don’t forget to procure them at the national park booth in the visitor’s center.
Unwind at the Spa
A blissful and relaxing spa is perfect for all sorts of body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and hair styling. I always look for some nearby spas on my trips. It’s so helpful to relax and rejuvenate after an all-day trip.
You can visit spas within walking distance from the hot springs, and they are attached to a hotel with free parking. Though the hot springs act as thermal spas, you can pamper yourself to reduce stress, pain, and muscle sores in the Radium Hot Springs Spas. To get ultimate relaxation and a friendly atmosphere, check out Elevation Spa, which is accessible 24/7, all year round, but you need to book it early to confirm your reservation.
Hiking in National Parks
Travelling through the Trans-Canada Highway, the view as you reach Kootenay National Park is breathtaking and scenic. Banff National Park is also nearby. Hiking and walking trails are unlimited and available for amateurs and experts here. You can also satisfy your adrenaline rush by biking along challenging trails, horse riding, and exploring stunning historic places.
Golfing Near the Hot Springs
Columbia Valley is a haven for the versatile cross-country game and has eight golf courses, all within a 40-minute drive from the Radium hot springs. Isn’t that amazing? The Radium group offers two courses: the springs and the Radium course. The Springs course is one of Canada’s premium golf courses. Here, you can indulge yourself with picturesque views, green grassy hills, and flats. The course is fun and challenging, and resident bighorn sheep roam the area freely, which is the most famous attraction in Radium Hot Spring to witness!
Whitewater Rafting in Kootenay
Kootenay River runners offer three adventure rafting trips along the Kicking Horse River, Kootenay River, and Toby Creek. You can rest and take in the view by removing your shoes and dipping your toes in the water—a must-do activity, even if it is not extravagant! The amusing and accommodating guides, stunning scenery, and rapids of glacial water spraying on you make the trip safe and exhilarating.
Skiing is a great fun
One more thing that I would suggest you enjoy there is winter skiing. You will find three spots within 35 kilometres of Radium hot springs. With over 100 trails, Panorama Mountain Resort is ideal for cross-country skiing. It offers lessons and adventurous activities for beginners. Lake Windermere Whiteway, Lillian Whiteway, and Junior Johnson also offer classic skiing when conditions allow. For the next level of luxury and adventure, opt for Panorama Heli-Ski.
Ziplining Across the Landscape
Two sites offering a birds-eye view with an adrenaline rush are Valley Zipline Adventures in Radium and Mineral Mountain ziplines in Fairmont Hot Springs. A new addition, ‘the adventure tower,’ provides a 35-foot climbing wall and a thrilling free-fall jump. The experience is guaranteed to be heart-pounding and stomach-flipping. So, don’t miss out on this if you are an adventure freak just like me!
Radium Hot Springs is only one and a half hours from Banff National Park, so you get the iconic mountain views but with significantly fewer people. This is why it’s become my new favourite spot—it’s much quieter and less crowded but just as beautiful.
And yes, I must tell you that the bathing suits and towels can be rented. The suits aren’t fashionable, but they do the job! Whatever footwear you use at home for your city pool will work just fine, as will bare feet.
The village named after the pool is a full-service town that encourages radium hot springs tours and visitors worldwide. So chill!
Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani