Deer River Hot Springs

Deer River Hot Springs is a remote and expansive thermal system in northern British Columbia, located approximately 16 km from the Alaska Highway, along the north bank of the Liard River. Access requires a difficult off-trail route: first following the Liard River upstream to the Deer River confluence, then continuing 13 km up the Deer River. The trail along the Liard is poorly defined and often overgrown—route-finding skills, GPS, and full wilderness gear are essential. The springs are rarely visited due to their isolation but are among the largest by volume in Canada. The main source reportedly fills a clear, sulfur-scented, turquoise pool around 30 m wide and 6 m deep. Temp readings vary between sources, listing maximums from 32°C to 42°C (90°F–108°F). Numerous vents feed a network of hot pools, streams, and tufa formations, with hot water cascading over three separate waterfalls before reaching the Deer River. Additional vents are visible up to 500 m south of the main pool, with steam rising from swampy ground and thermal water bubbling from multiple zones. The system spans several hundred meters and shows signs of high, consistent flow. The area is active grizzly habitat—carry spray, travel in groups, and make noise. Despite the effort and risk, Deer River offers a rare wilderness soak with unmatched scale and isolation.