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Overview
Ainsworth Hot Springs is a small unincorporated community on the western shore of Kootenay Lake in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia. With a permanent population of only a few dozen people, it functions almost entirely as a destination in its own right rather than a service hub — visitors come specifically for the geothermal waters and the dramatic scenery of the surrounding Selkirk Mountains.
The settlement takes its name from George Ainsworth, an American miner who helped develop the area during the silver-mining era of the 1880s. The hot springs themselves were known to Indigenous peoples long before European contact, and the Ktunaxa (Kootenai) people have deep historical and cultural ties to this part of the Kootenay Lake valley.
Today the community is anchored by the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, which manages access to the springs. The surrounding landscape — heavily forested mountains dropping sharply to the clear, cold waters of Kootenay Lake — draws hikers, paddlers, and photographers in addition to those seeking therapeutic soaking. It is a genuinely unhurried place, best appreciated at a slow pace.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Ainsworth Hot Springs is located in Canada. Entry requirements depend on your nationality and travel history. For current, accurate visa and entry information, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at the official Government of Canada website.
What to Pack
- Swimwear and a towel (towel rental may be available at the resort — verify locally)
- Water shoes or sandals for the cave pools, which can have uneven rocky surfaces
- Layers for cool mountain evenings even in summer
- Sunscreen and sunglasses, particularly if you plan to spend time on or near Kootenay Lake
- Cash or a mix of payment options, as service availability in very small communities can be limited
Health and Physical Considerations
The cave pool area involves walking on wet, uneven terrain. People with certain cardiovascular conditions or low blood pressure should consult a physician before extended soaking in hot springs. Pregnant travelers should also seek medical advice in advance. Stay hydrated — soaking in hot water increases fluid loss.
Getting There
Ainsworth Hot Springs sits along British Columbia Highway 31, approximately 16 km north of Kaslo and roughly 50 km north of Balfour on the north arm of Kootenay Lake. There is no commercial air or rail service to the community itself.
By Car
Driving is the most practical way to reach Ainsworth. From Nelson — the nearest large service town, roughly 90 km to the south via Balfour and the Kootenay Lake Ferry — the scenic route follows Highway 3A to Balfour and then Highway 31 north along the lakeshore. Road conditions in winter can be challenging; check BC Highway Conditions (DriveBC) before travel.
Kootenay Lake Ferry
If approaching from the Creston or East Kootenay side, the free Kootenay Lake Ferry connects Balfour to Kootenay Bay. It is reputed to be one of the longest free ferry rides in the world. Schedules and crossing times vary by season — verify the current timetable with BC Ferries or the provincial government before your trip.
By Bus
Scheduled intercity bus service to Ainsworth Hot Springs is limited or non-existent at the time of writing. Verify any regional transit options through BC Transit or local operators, as rural routes change. Most visitors self-drive or arrange a private transfer from Nelson or Kaslo.
Getting Around
Ainsworth Hot Springs is extremely small — the resort, any accommodation, and the lakeshore are all within easy walking distance of each other. There is no local public transportation, taxi service, or rideshare presence in the community itself.
A personal vehicle is essentially required if you intend to explore the broader region — day trips to Kaslo, Nelson, or points along Kootenay Lake all require driving. Roads are generally in good condition in summer; Highway 31 can be affected by ice, snow, and rock conditions in winter and spring, so checking DriveBC before any journey is advisable.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Ainsworth Hot Springs is anchored by the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, which offers rooms with direct access to the springs complex. Availability and room types should be confirmed directly with the resort, and booking in advance is advisable in summer.
Alternatively, the nearby town of Kaslo has a small selection of bed-and-breakfasts, motels, and vacation rentals. Nelson offers the widest range of accommodation in the region, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, though the additional drive time should be factored in. Searching platforms such as Booking.com or local tourism sites for the West Kootenay region will give an up-to-date picture of availability.
Things to See & Do
The Hot Springs
The central draw is the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort's pool complex, which includes an outdoor pool, a cooler plunge pool, and the distinctive horseshoe-shaped cave — a naturally formed tunnel through which warm mineral-rich water flows. Visitors can wade through the cave, experiencing temperature changes from the open end to the enclosed interior. Admission fees and hours should be confirmed directly with the resort before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Kootenay Lake
The lake directly in front of the community is one of the deepest natural lakes in Canada. It offers opportunities for fishing (a provincial freshwater fishing licence is required — verify regulations with the BC government), kayaking, and simply watching the light shift across the water and surrounding peaks at different times of day.
Cody Caves Provincial Park
Located a short drive into the mountains above Ainsworth, Cody Caves is a marble cave system with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. Tours are typically offered seasonally; verify current tour availability and booking requirements with BC Parks before visiting, as operations can be subject to change.
Hiking
The surrounding Selkirk Mountains offer backcountry and day-hiking options. Trails vary significantly in difficulty. Consult BC Parks resources and local knowledge before setting out, particularly in early season when snowpack may persist at elevation.
Food & Drink
Dining options in Ainsworth Hot Springs itself are very limited. The resort has historically offered on-site dining, but hours and menus should be confirmed directly as they can vary by season.
For a broader range of restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores, the nearby town of Kaslo (approximately 16 km north) is a good option and has a modest but genuine food scene. Nelson, roughly 90 km to the south, is the regional hub with a well-developed restaurant and café culture.
If you are staying for multiple nights, consider bringing groceries from Kaslo or Nelson, as provisions available on-site or locally may be minimal. Staying well-hydrated is especially important when spending time in the hot springs — water is the most important beverage to keep on hand.
Practical Information
Communications and Connectivity
Cell service can be patchy in rural Kootenay communities, including Ainsworth. Do not rely solely on mobile data for navigation or emergency contact — download offline maps before arriving and keep a paper backup of important contact numbers.
Money
The nearest bank branches and ATMs are in Kaslo or Nelson. Carry sufficient cash before arriving in Ainsworth, as payment options on-site may be limited.
Emergency Services
For any emergency in Canada, dial 911. The nearest hospital services are in Nelson. Kaslo has a health centre — verify its current capabilities with Interior Health before your trip if you have specific medical concerns.
Facilities
Beyond the resort, expect very few public facilities. Fuel is not reliably available in Ainsworth — fill your tank in Kaslo or Balfour before heading to the community.
Wildlife Awareness
Black bears and other wildlife are present throughout the region. Follow BC Parks' standard bear safety guidance: store food securely, do not approach wildlife, and carry bear spray if hiking in the backcountry.
Safety
Ainsworth Hot Springs is a safe destination with no notable crime concerns. The primary safety considerations are environmental and physical rather than social.
Winter road travel on Highway 31 requires appropriate tires (winter tires are legally required in BC on most routes during colder months — verify current requirements) and careful attention to DriveBC avalanche and road hazard bulletins. The mountain roads are scenic but can be narrow and steep in sections.
In the hot springs themselves, the cave pool requires caution on wet surfaces. Supervise children closely near all water features. Extended soaking, particularly in the hotter sections of the cave, can cause dizziness — exit the water gradually and rehydrate.
If hiking into the backcountry around Cody Caves or elsewhere in the Selkirks, tell someone your plans, carry the Ten Essentials, and check avalanche forecasts in winter and spring through Avalanche Canada.
