Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort is located on the shore of Kootenay Lake, just off Highway 31 between the towns of Balfour and Kaslo.

It is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering open-air soaking pools overlooking the lake and access to unique mineral caves with colorful formations.

The main feature of the resort is a 150-foot horseshoe-shaped underground tunnel, where visitors can wade through a waist-deep thermal pool while viewing multicolored stalactites and stalagmites.

Ainsworth Hot Springs Soaking Experience

The hot mineral water originates from underground sources associated with the Cody Caves system and enters the tunnel through natural fractures in the rock.

As it flows through the cave, water drips from the ceiling and walls, forming mineral deposits and icicle-like formations.

Inside the tunnel, a hot mineral shower and steam-like conditions create a natural sauna effect. Water temperatures in the cave pool average around 108°F (42°C), and visits are typically limited to 10–15 minutes due to the heat.

At the cave entrance, there are two pools: a hot pool and a cold plunge pool. The cold pool is fed by water from Munn Creek.

The main outdoor pool measures approximately 40 by 50 feet and is about 3 feet deep, with water maintained at around 96°F (35°C).

The water contains calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, lithium, and silica.

Due to its strong flow rate, the main pool is fully refreshed several times a day and is only lightly chlorinated.

The first of those who used healing waters as a welcoming rest spot were Native people of the Ktunaxa tribe. They called hot mineral waters "Nupika Wu’u" and enjoyed the healing powers of springs long before the first European travelers and settlers arrived.

In 1882, steamboat captain George Ainsworth from Portland, Oregon as well as other prospectors founded a community named "Hot Springs Camp" in order to extract silver, lead, and zinc located nearby. Later, G.Ainsworth bought the camp and renamed it after himself.

In the early 20th century, as local mining declined, the site began to develop as a hot springs destination. John Burns helped build a pool and promote it as a resort.

In the 1930s, bathing facilities and cave access had been developed, and the site began welcoming visitors during the era of the Great Depression.

Between 1983 and 2012, the resort underwent a series of renovations and upgrades.

In 2015, Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort was sold to the Lower Kootenay Band (Yaqan Nukiy), the original Indigenous stewards of the land.

Accommodation options include standard rooms, lakeview rooms, deluxe units, and suites, available for booking through the resort’s website.

Alternatively, more affordable waterfront houses and cabins are available along the shore of Kootenay Lake.

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Ainsworth

The nearest hotels are situated in the towns of Kaslo, 21 miles north and Nelson, 48 miles south southwest via highway BC-31.

Lodging in Kaslo

Lodging in Nelson