Tucked deep in northern BC along the Alaska Highway, this steamy oasis is one of Canada’s best natural hot springs. Liard River Hot Springs offers a wild-yet-accessible soak surrounded by boreal forest, with wooden boardwalks, peaceful campsites, and of course, the occasional moose sighting. It’s a great addition to any northern road trip!
I pulled into Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park for a one-night stopover on my way to Whitehorse. Thankfully, I’d reserved a site in advance… it was a busy spot! I wasn’t planning to stay long when I stopped here in Summer 2023, but this place quickly became a top memory from my Calgary-to-Yukon drive.
After an evening soak, I returned to the hot water early the next morning just after the gate opened at 7 o’clock. Mist curled through the trees as I eased into the mineral-rich water, the smell of sulphur in the air. It’s an amazing soaking experience, and hard to beat that kind of peace on the road. Keep reading to see what I mean.
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Map of Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park
About Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park
Located at KM 765 of the Alaska Highway, about 3.5 hours northwest of Fort Nelson, Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park is home to “Alpha Pool,” one of the largest natural hot springs in Canada. Temperatures range from 42°C to 52°C (that’s up to 126°F), and the 700-metre boardwalk through lush wetlands makes for a beautiful lead-up to your soak.
The area is rich in biodiversity, with tropical-style vegetation that thrives in the warmth of the springs. And yes, moose sightings are common along the trail and sometimes near the pools. I watched one from the boardwalk. Keep your eyes peeled!
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Camping at Liard River Hot Springs
If you’re driving the Alaska Highway, spending the night at Liard River Hot Springs is an easy decision. With 53 reservable sites, the campground offers shaded spots tucked into the forest, picnic tables, fire pits, clean outhouses, and direct boardwalk access to the pools. It’s unserviced (i.e. no flushed toilets or showers), but the setting more than makes up for it.
You’re just a short walk from the hot springs, so you can slip in for a quiet evening soak or early morning dip without the crowds. I set up in the back of my Subaru Outback with my sleeping pad and sleeping bag, then strung up my hammock for a lazy hang before hitting the pools. Car camping at its best, I’d say!
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How To Get To Liard River Hot Springs
From Fort Nelson, it’s about 3.5 hours northwest on Highway 97 (Alaska Highway) to reach Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park. The springs are well-marked and easy to spot with a large parking area and clear signage. Whether you’re headed to the Yukon, Alaska, or just making a BC loop, Liard is the perfect place to pause and soak away the road dust.
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Soaking in the Liard River Hot Springs
The springs are exactly what you want them to be: steamy, natural, and surrounded by boreal forest. The main pool is tiered, with hotter water upstream and cooler spots downstream, so you can find the right temperature. I was surprised by how HOT this water really is… it took a minute to ease in. Think rustic charm here, with a few benches, simple change rooms, and a no-glass/no-alcohol policy to keep things safe. Remember, respect the natural area and other guests while you’re visiting.
Liard River Hot Springs is open year-round (even in the dead of winter… that would be perfect) and the best time to soak is early morning or late evening. I’d love to visit for a winter soak someday.
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Best Time To Visit Liard River Hot Springs
The best time to visit Liard River Hot Springs is from late spring to early fall. Summer (June to August) is peak season, with long daylight hours and high demand. Booking ahead is a smart move. Shoulder seasons like May and September offer quieter vibes, cooler air, and fewer bugs, so that’s a great option if your travel dates are flexible. No matter when you go, weekdays are typically less busy, and arriving early can make all the difference. I highly recommend an early morning soak before checking out of your campsite.
What to Bring to Liard River Hot Springs
Packing a few essentials will make your visit smoother and a lot more comfortable. You’re going to want to bring a bathing suit and a towel, and I’d suggest water shoes or sandals for the rocky bottom of the pool. In spring and early summer, bug spray is a must, and a good headlamp comes in handy for evening soaks or navigating the boardwalk after dark. If you’re staying overnight, make sure to bring camping gear and check local fire restrictions ahead of time. Don’t forget some cash for the day-use and camping fees.
Know Before You Go
Reservations: You can reserve campsites online through BC Parks — highly recommended in peak season. No reservations needed for the springs.
Fees: $5 per adult for day use and $26 per night for camping. Fees are subject to change.
Access: Open year-round. Boardwalk gate usually open from 7:00am to 11:00pm.
Rules: No alcohol, glass, or pets in the pool area. Leashed pets are allowed at campsites.
Wildlife: This is bear and moose country — give them space and don’t feed any wild animals. Become familiar with Leave No Trace principles to help keep wild things wild. There’s an electric fence surrounding the campground to help manage wildlife.
Crowds: Expect summer crowds. Mornings and evenings tend to be quieter.
Cell Service: Limited to none.
Accessibility: Boardwalk is flat and accessible, though the change areas are basic.
Things to Do Nearby — Driving the Alaska Highway
Liard River Hot Springs might be the star of the show, but the Alaska Highway is full of natural attractions to explore. If you’re heading north, consider a quick stop at Rancheria Falls for a short walk to a set of scenic waterfalls just past the BC-Yukon border. To the south, Muncho Lake Provincial Park is another gem, with turquoise water and epic mountain views. I wish I had my SUP with me (next time, for sure!).
And of course, just driving this highway is part of the adventure. I’m so glad I decided to drive. These long stretches of open road with wildlife crossings, quirky gas stations, and friendly northern towns make for an unforgettable trip.
Are you planning a road trip on the Alaska Highway? Have you visited Liard River Hot Springs? Let me know in the comments!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
