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Liard River Hot Springs
Overview
Liard River Hot Springs is a legendary stop for travelers navigating the Alaska Highway. Known as the second-largest hot spring in Canada, this provincial park offers a unique opportunity to soak in natural thermal waters while surrounded by a lush boreal forest. Unlike commercialized resorts, the park maintains a rustic, tranquil atmosphere that highlights the beauty of the Northern Rockies, making it a bucket-list destination for those heading north through British Columbia.
Location & Surroundings
Located at Mile 496 of the Alaska Highway near Muncho Lake, BC, the park is set within a remote wilderness area. The springs create a unique microclimate that supports diverse plant life not typically found at this latitude, including several species of orchids. Visitors are often treated to the sight of a warm water swamp that remains unfrozen year-round, which serves as a fascinating contrast to the rugged, often snowy surrounding terrain during the shoulder seasons.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground provides a classic wilderness experience with dry camping sites that accommodate both small and large RVs. While there are no electrical or water hookups, the park focuses on preserving the natural environment while providing essential facilities:
- Spacious back-in campsites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
- A scenic elevated boardwalk that leads through the swamp to the Alpha Pool.
- Hand-pumped water stations and clean pit toilets located throughout the camp.
- Change rooms and composting toilets situated conveniently at the hot springs site.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
While the hot springs are the main draw, the area is famous for wildlife viewing, particularly the wood bison often seen grazing along the highway. A short drive away, the stunning turquoise waters of Muncho Lake offer opportunities for boating and photography. Within the park itself, the hanging gardens and diverse flora provide a spectacular sight for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the unique biodiversity of the Liard River valley.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is perfect for self-contained RVers who appreciate a quiet, off-grid experience over modern luxuries. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and long-haul travelers looking for a rejuvenating break from the road. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sounds of the forest and waking up for an early morning soak in a pristine, natural setting, this park is an ideal fit for your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Joel Campbell
I made a stop here in December 2024 just after a fairly heavy snowstorm so the deck and stairs were still being cleared and melting. One of the most beautiful natural hot springs in Canada. There is a small campground attached with unserviced lots which are clean and well maintained, including pit toilets. There is an electrified fence to keep bears and other wildlife out of the campground. This is a must see if you are travelling the Alaska Highway.
Chris Lewis
I was on my way back home to Whitehorse and I just had to stop by my favorite childhood hotsprings. Stayed at the hotel across the road and had breakfast before my morning dip!! So relaxing, I went early and I was by myself for over a hour. #blessed
Mark Wu
An amazing natural hot spring with a hotel right across from it. This is my second visit, and it’s truly such a relaxing spot. The only downside is that it’s a bit far—about a seven-hour drive from Whitehorse, Yukon—and there’s no cell signal here.
Rebecca Lazzelle
Stopped here for one night on our way to Alaska (Sept 2024). WORTH IT! It's an unassuming entrance like lots of places in this area and it would be easy to miss. Sites are nice, in the woods, no hookups, with pit toilets available, as needed and can be booked online. The hot springs is a quick like 15 min walk and it's beautiful. There are no showers (I wasn't the only one to be confused about that for some reason). Hot springs has pit toilets and changing rooms. If you are in the area stop for sure. Such a wonderful place. Apparently there are more pools up the river which have been closed for years, so just the two main pools. They get plenty hot IMO! We hung up our towels to dry overnight and they were wetter for sure in the morning. Lol.
Calvin F
It’s like a jungle in the middle of the taiga. Absolutely wild. Large parking lot with picnic tables, lots of fences and texas gates etc to protect the property. RV camping sites. Playground and pit toilets. Take the ~700m walk down the boardwalk and feel the temperature gradually increase as you cross the muskeg. By the end of the boardwalk, it looks and feels like a central american jungle. The hot springs themselves are exceptionally clean, water is crystal clear and very blue. Changing rooms are provided but there are no lockers so consider leaving your valuables in the car. Hot spring temperature is a steep gradient, the right side of the pool felt incredibly hot probably near 130F, the lower left part felt like a comfy 90F. The water has a very high mineral content and it makes your skin feel super clean and smooth. As with all hot springs, there’s a slight sulfur smell but you don’t smell of it after you dry off. Best $5 I ever spent