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Khutze Inlet Warm Springs: A Hidden Gem on BC’s Remote Coast

A Secret Worth Discovering

Many adventurers have tried—and failed—to find the elusive Khutze Inlet Warm Springs. But make no mistake: they exist. Nestled deep within the K’ootz/Khutze Conservancy on British Columbia’s spectacular North Coast, these remote springs are a reward for those who are persistent, well-prepared, and a little bit lucky.

How to Get There

From the head of Khutze Inlet—about 65 km southeast of Hartley Bay—you’ll need to kayak or hike up the south side of the Khutze River. The springs are located roughly 3 km upstream from the inlet. If you don’t find them right away, try looking slightly upriver from the coordinates—just before the downstream end of the rapids. They’re definitely downriver from the first significant side creek entering from the south.

Be prepared for some bushy travel. The route is unmarked and rugged, passing through dense vegetation and along slippery riverbanks. Traces of an old narrow-gauge railway, built in the 1920s by gold prospectors, can still be found along the way, offering a glimpse into the region’s brief mining history.

What to Expect at the Springs

The Khutze Inlet Warm Springs aren’t dramatic or high-temperature—they’re subtle. Three small, lukewarm springs seep from the river gravel about ten meters from the bank. The water generally ranges from warm to mildly hot and is odorless, with low levels of dissolved minerals like sulfate and sodium. The absence of a sulphur smell makes for a more pleasant soak, if you catch them when the river is low.

Timing is everything. These springs can easily be submerged by high river levels, so visiting in the spring or early fall—when the river is at its lowest—is the best bet.

Grizzlies, Salmon, and Wild Country

This region is prime grizzly bear habitat, especially in the fall when the salmon are running. Exercise extreme caution: travel in groups, make noise, and carry bear spray or deterrents. Seeing a bear here isn’t just possible—it’s likely.

The conservancy itself is stunning, with dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and vast old-growth forests. It’s one of the most biologically diverse and pristine wilderness areas on the coast. The surrounding landscape is also perfect for paddling, wildlife photography, and backcountry camping.

Not for the Faint of Heart

There are no signs, no platforms, no soaking tubs—just natural springs bubbling up in the gravel of a remote river valley. Finding and experiencing them is an adventure in itself. For those who are well-equipped and wilderness-savvy, Khutze Inlet Warm Springs offers a quiet, unspoiled reward.

This is not a place for casual tourists. It’s a destination for the intrepid. And for those who make it, the memory is unforgettable.

Important Reminder: Travel in remote areas like Khutze Inlet requires proper planning, local knowledge, and respect for nature. Always let someone know your plans and expected return.