I visited Radium Hot Springs today, about 100 km south of Golden, BC. The springs were used for centuries by Indigenous peoples, until 1890, when the first permanent settlers came to the area and the springs became popular. The first bathing pool was constructed in 1914, and another in 1927. In 1951, an “aqua court” was built at a cost of $1,000,000, the first major construction project in the Canadian Western Parks after WWII. In 2016-2019, the “aqua court” was refurbished, change rooms renovated, energy efficient technology was introduced and excess geothermal energy was captured for use. The hot pool temperature stays at 100-102F.
Corey drove us to Radium Hot Springs this morning, with snow falling the whole way there, and heavier snow falling on the way back. It was 9F degrees outside, and snowing during our two hour visit. We had to go completely underwater every 10 minutes or so, because our hair would freeze. It was an unforgettable experience. (Papa stayed in our rented house all day, reading and keeping the fire going.)
