| Ainsworth Hot Springs is a small resort community located south of the community of Kaslo, BC and northeast of the community of Nelson, BC in the Kootenay region of British Columbia, Canada. The centre of attention in Ainsworth is the natural hot spring resort situated up on a ridge over looking Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains.
Ainsworth Hot Springs is, both, a popular day use attraction in the region and a local resort with over night accommodations. The hot spring attraction consists of three odorless pools. There is a main outdoor pool for relaxing and lounging about, a steam room-like horseshoe cave and an outdoor cold water "wake up quick" plunge pool.
The main outdoor lounging pool looks like a regular swimming pool except it is filled with hot mineral water coming down from the mountain near Cody Caves. The horseshoe cave's hot mineral waters drop from the roof of the cave, dripping from stalagmites and stalactites, creating a waist deep pool and a natural steam room.
The hot springs are both a popular stop for families and couples. The cave is romantic and personal. The outdoor hot spring pool is open and relaxing. To compliment the hot springs the day use facilities include some change rooms, picnic tables, washrooms, a gift shop and a dining restaurant. The parking lot is paved and will accommodate RVs.
In the neighbourhood of the Ainsworth Hot Springs are many other activities and sights to see. Some of the other activities worth exploring when in Ainsworth include the Balfour-Kootenay Bay Ferry crossing Kootenay Lake, the Kokanee Creek Park, the Kokanee Glacier Park and the Buchanan Lookout.
How to Get to Ainsworth Hot Springs
Travel to the community of Nelson, BC on Hwy #3a. From Nelson continue traveling towards the Balfour-Kootenay Bay Ferry. Once in Balfour travel on Highway 31 towards Kaslo, BC. The Ainsworth Hot Springs is located 17 kilometres ( 10 mi.) south of Kaslo. |
Ainsworth
Kaslo
