Lussier Hot Springs Near Radium Closed Indefinitely Over Rockfall Risk

Lussier Hot Springs has closed indefinitely after a structural failure left large, unstable rocks hanging above one of its pools, creating a serious public safety risk. The site is a cluster of natural riverside soaking pools with no built facilities, popular for its free, backcountry-style hot spring experience.

The natural hot springs, located in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park about an hour south of Radium, BC, were closed in mid-January after a containment wall failure at the site’s large hot pool triggered the collapse of several key support boulders. The failure left overhanging rock in the pool area that could fall without warning, posing a risk of injury to visitors.

“Stability concerns arose for the surrounding structures. Small rocks were removed from beneath larger supporting rocks, causing three large support boulders to collapse into the pool. That has left unstable overhanging rock, which presents a significant public safety risk,” said David Karn, senior public affairs officer with B.C.’s Environment and Parks Communications Office. 

All public access to the hot springs, including the pathway leading to the pools, has been shut down. The closure applies to all visitors and permit holders, with limited exemptions for authorized staff and emergency responders.

The closure will remain in place until the containment wall can be stabilized and the site is deemed safe for public use. There is currently no estimated timeline for reopening.

BC Parks is evaluating the scope of repairs required, including engineering work needed to stabilize the pool containment structures and surrounding rock. The assessment will inform both the cost of repairs and how long the closure could last.

Despite the site’s remote setting, the closure is being actively enforced. The access trail to the hot springs has been gated and locked, and closure signage has been installed, with additional safety-risk signage to be added in the near future. Park rangers and operator staff are monitoring the area, and anyone entering the closed zone will face enforcement action, including fines for trespassing. In addition to enforcement consequences, Karn said visitors who ignore the closure are putting themselves at serious risk.

“The overhanging rocks remain destabilized and can release at any time,” said Karn. “There is currently a significant risk to personal safety.”

BC Parks has updated the Lussier Hot Springs webpage with the closure information. Signs have also been posted at the facility entrance and at the primary access turnoff from Highway 93 onto the Whiteswan Lake Forest Service Road.

The rest of Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park remains open, as the closure is limited to the hot springs and the associated access route. The closure notice will be updated as more information becomes available.