Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park

The Liard hot spring, which is open year round to the public(for a small fee), is frequented by people far and wide, in the warmth of summer and the depths of winter, with excellent experiences reported even in -35C weather, though the “hanging gardens” located down the boardwalk are restricted from September to May. Temperatures can reach up to 52C at the mouth of the spring, however, due to the “tradition” of wading ones way through the hottest water to place a rock at the source creating a blockage, temperatures have been reported as significantly cooler during the busy months. 

The location offers a visitor center for patrons to pay at, where they may also pay for a spot in the campground on site. Here, visitors can pick up brochures with information and activities on the area, and sign up for tours, talks, and presentations. If you plan on camping in the area, it is important that you know whom you will be sharing your campsite with, and this includes a variety of animals who are acclimated to the warm marsh nearby, and plants that are not found naturally in BC outside the microclimate created by the springs, such as carnivorous sundew plants and several varieties of orchids.

It is important to plan ahead when visiting this site and there are a few things to consider: in summer, the campsite fills up early each day and should be booked in advance to ensure a spot; in winter, it is important to know that the changeroom is open except for a roof and does not provide much protection from the elements; only cash is accepted at the visitor station; in winter it is recommended to have AWD/4WD.

Day use Fees (April 1- October 31)
Adults $5
Children $3
Family $10

Annual Pass
Adult $10
Family $20

photos courtesy of Wesley Seufert, and Anna Ziegler