Explore the Many Moods of the Hot Springs

In the heart of the Kootenay wilderness is the tiny village of Ainsworth Hot Springs, set into the mountainside overlooking the vast expanse of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains. 

 

In the early 1880s, Ainsworth became the first townsite to develop on Kootenay Lake when American born Captain George Ainsworth brought his business of transportation and mining exploration to the area. At the height of the mining activity, approximately 3,000 people lived in the town. As mining ceased to be a profitable venture, the fortunes of the area diminished and the population fell to the current number of less than 100 permanent residents.

 

Today, it is home to the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, developed around the original, natural hot springs. On a cool fall day or on a snowy winter evening you can relax in the outdoor pool and enjoy the scenic pleasures of the Purcell mountains and Kootenay Lake, while warm soothing mineral hot springs waters lap at your shoulders. 

 

Step out of the pool and wade through the even warmer water of the caves. This unique horseshoe-shaped cave is where the darkness, the mineral deposits and the humidity all combine to offer an exhilarating experience. A hot steamy, odourless shower of mineralized water falls from the cave's roof and forms a waist-deep pool, providing a rejuvenating natural steam bath. These springs originate in the Cody Caves area, directly above and to the west of Ainsworth Hot Springs. 

 

For a truly breathtaking scenario, try to catch a full moon from the pool on a bright, crisp clear night – a sight that will not be easily forgotten. Or after a day of skiing, sit in the pools and watch a light snow falling. The resort also includes a first class hotel and restaurant, and a gift shop.