Nakusp

Hot springs, Arrow Lake, and the heart of the Kootenay — a hidden gem in BC's most scenic region.

Nakusp is a small town on the shores of Upper Arrow Lake in the West Kootenay, one of the most scenically situated communities in BC. The town sits at the foot of the Selkirk Mountains on the western shore of the lake, with views across the water to the Monashee Mountains on the far shore and a setting that captures everything that makes the Kootenays special. The Nakusp Hot Springs, 12 kilometres north of town, are among the finest natural hot springs in BC. The springs feed two outdoor pools set in a forested canyon, with water temperatures of around 40°C and a setting of genuine wilderness beauty. The hot springs are accessible year-round and are a major draw for visitors throughout the seasons. Arrow Lake — actually the Arrow Lakes Reservoir, created by the Hugh Keenleyside Dam — stretches for hundreds of kilometres through the Kootenay valley and offers excellent boating, fishing, and camping. The lake is popular for houseboating, and the numerous provincial campgrounds along its shores provide access to some of the most beautiful waterfront in the BC interior. Nakusp has a strong arts and culture community that is remarkable for a town of its size. The Nakusp and Area Museum tells the story of the region's mining, logging, and steamboat heritage, and the community hosts several arts festivals throughout the year. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking, mountain biking, and backcountry skiing.