Hot Springs of Western Canada

Hot springs are among western Canada’s most enjoyable attractions. Some are famous, like Fairmont and Harrison, and have posh resorts built around them. Some, like Hot Springs Cove in Clayoquot Sound, cascade through a series of natural pools. Many more are hidden away in the wilderness, known only to locals—or owners of this guidebook.

A perennial bestseller now in its fourth updated edition, Hot Springs of Western Canada is a comprehensive guide to roughly 115 hot springs located mostly in BC, but also in Alberta, Yukon, the western Northwest Territories and even near the border in Washington and Alaska. It covers access, conditions, history and noteworthy details of these enticing natural wonders. Additionally, there are numerous colour photographs and engaging preface articles explaining the science and history of hot springs. This guide is a must-have for anyone who enjoys a soothing soak, either in a popular park or in the privacy of the wilderness.

Glenn Woodsworth is an Emeritus Research Scientist with the Geological Survey of Canada. He has been mapping, mountaineering, and exploring the backcountry of western BC for over sixty years and has had a scientific and avocational interest in hot springs for over thirty years. He has written, contributed to and edited several outdoor guides, including Dick Culbert’s classic A Climber’s Guide to the Coastal Ranges of British Columbia. He is an Honourary Member and current President of the BC Mountaineering Club. With his wife, Joy Woodsworth, he operates Tricouni Press. He lives in Vancouver, BC.


David Woodsworth’s interest in the outdoors came from his father, whose job as a geologist took him all over the Coast Mountains for three or four months each summer. From as young as seven, David accompanied him on helicopter trips. David has more than fifty years of experience exploring all corners of British Columbia, including several summers exploring the coast by small boat. He also has extensive hiking, backpacking and mountaineering experience, and has trained as a private and commercial pilot. He lives in Delta, BC.