Hot
Springs Cove |
Hot Springs Cove
is a splendid hot spring still enjoyable in its natural state, located
in Maquinna Provincial Park in the remote northern end of Clayoquot
Sound. The boiling spring water bubbles up from deep in the earth
and cascades down a small cliff into a series of natural layered rock
pools, cooled by the incoming Pacific Ocean surf, each pool slightly
cooler than the one above it. At high tide the surf surges up into
the two lower pools creating a unique blend of hot and cool water.
This tidal action
also flushes the pools twice daily, so they are always noticeably
clean. The spring water is very hot (47 degrees Celcius, 117 degrees
Fahrenheit), and is clear with just a faint smell and taste of sulphur.
For the few
that can stand the intense heat, a natural shower underneath the
waterfalls is simply awesome! Let your tensions evaporate with the
steam, at any time of the year. Rejuvenate your soul in these wonderfully
scenic surroundings. Soaking in the rocky pools with a mountain
rising overhead is a magical experience.
This soothing,
natural wonder is open year-round and is accessible only by air
or by sea (one-hour water taxi ride from Tofino). The hotsprings
are reached by an easy hike on a 2-km attractive wooden boardwalk
trail from the dock. A selection of transport packages is offered
out of Tofino, combining aerial sightseeing, camping, whale watching
and kayaking with the magical experience of a mineral steam bath
surrounded by old-growth rain forest.
Hot Springs
Cove is a refreshing stop for kayakers paddling through the Flores
and Vargas Islands, and for those seeking a less strenuous visit,
accommodation can be sought at a nearby lodge operated by the Hesquiat
First Nations.
Guests of the
lodge are permitted access to the two-mile, well-marked, wilderness
trail to Tsamata Beach, to spend time strolling through the uncut
forest and exploring the undisturbed shoreline. There are huge ancient
cedars, towering Douglas firs, and spruces, some draped with Spanish
moss. The air is thick and humid, and everything is lush, damp,
green and growing.
Hot Springs
Cove is a very popular attraction on the west coast, so a visit
during fall and winter will provide more privacy. The mineral water
sustains numerous micro-organisms that could affect your eyes, ears
and throat, and protective footwear is recommended in the rock pools
- rubber-soled aquashoes are best. Bathing suits are not always
worn.
Wilderness,
backcountry or walk-in camping is allowed, but no facilities are
provided. Camping is not permitted on the peninsula portion of the
park where the hot springs are located. Wilderness camping is permitted
in the remainder of the park. A private campground, operated by
the Hesquiat First Nation, is located just north of the government
dock.
Location
Hot Springs Cove is located in Maquinna
Provincial Marine Park at the remote northern end of Clayoquot
Sound, north of Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Contact
Information
Hot Springs Cove
Box 2000
Tofino, BC
V0R 2Z0
Phone:
1-888-781-9977
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