Hot Spring Island is one of most beautifully situated geothermal springs in North America. A series of terraced pools that terminate at the seashore, the spring affords an expansive view of Juan Perez Sound and the mountains of the San Cristobal Range. Temperatures in these roughhewn cascading pools range from 89 to 140 degrees so that visitors can choose one that suits their bathing preference.
Known as Gandla K’in to the Haida these restorative waters have been enjoyed by paddlers since time immemorial when war canoes pulled up on the beach rather than kayaks. Today members of the Haida watchman program act as hosts and maintain the springs.
We visit Hot Springs Island at the very end of the trip during the way back to Sandspit. A trip to the bathhouse (piped with hot water from the springs) and a relaxing soak is a perfect way to wrap up a Queen Charlotte Islands paddling adventure.
