Hot Springs & Swimming

Windermere Beach 10 minutes drive north of Fairmont – pebble beach, picnic tables, small playground, treed areas, washrooms, swimming dock

Canal Flats Beach 20 minutes south off Fairmont – pebble beach, covered picnic tables, outhouses, boat launch

James Chabot Provincial Park & Beach, 20 minutes from Fairmont in Invermere - a broad, sandy beach backed with open, grassy play areas, an adventure playground, volleyball court, and picnic area. The wetlands boardwalk also makes for a pleasant walk and wildlife view opportunities.

Kinsmen beach is also in Invermere, 25 minutes from Fairmont in Invermere – sandy, pebbly beaches, picnic tables, washrooms, playgrounds, water park, concession stand, and kayak/canoe/SUP rentals.

Timbers Resort rentals have access to Columbia Lake via a trail near the property and a small gravel beach with dock - approx 5 min walk.

View more info for beaches & boat launches here.

See other water activity ideas - Fish, Float, Boat & Raft.

* Please note Fairmont Hot Springs are currently closed * See 'Lake Swimming & Beaches' above for other ways to enjoy water in the valley.

Crystal clear and all natural, Canada's largest natural hot springs at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is a legendary attraction. Open year-round, these pools are privately operated and offer two pools, cool and hot. There are diving boards, ample change areas and an outdoor sundeck for sunbathing after your dip. Check out our packages for current offerings of stay & soak deals.

* Please note Radium Hot Springs are currently closed * See 'Lake Swimming & Beaches' above for other ways to enjoy water in the valley.

Radium Hot Springs pools are located in Kootenay National Park, just past the park gates. It features a shallow soaking area with seating around the perimeter. It's spectacular mountain setting and sheer rock wall creates a natural shield that rises above the pool. The 25 metre long cool pool offers a diving board and slides for a bit of splish and splash. Admission is approximately $7.40 per adult. Lockers, showers, and change rooms are all available there, including accessible rooms.

* Please note Lussier Hot Springs are currently closed * See 'Lake Swimming & Beaches' above for other ways to enjoy water in the valley.

Lussier Hot Springs is a true gem and a must do on your visit to the Columbia Valley. An authentic wilderness hot springs experience Lussier (or Whiteswan) Hot Springs is located at kilometre 17.5 on the Whiteswan Forest Service Road (FSR). This road is not paved and is slow going, but well worth the trip. Park in the pull out area and hiked down to the river where you will find a grotto-style hot springs set alongside the raging Lussier River. Sometimes the trail can be slippery and the river can be high and wash out the hot pools in the late spring. More information and maps (Lussier Hot Springs photo)