Radium Hot Springs
The first recorded visit to Radium Hot Springs was by Sir George Simpson, the governor of the Hudson Bay Company. Construction of cement bath pools and a bathhouse happened in 1914, but by 1922 the springs were expropriated and taken over by the park after it was formed in 1920. The subsequent U-shaped aquacourt that you see today was constructed between 1949 and 1951 and is claimed as the first major post-war building project in the western parks. Its construction helped the region gain international recognition as a spa destination and is the reason that the nearby village of Radium was constructed. The healing mineral-rich waters are still the main tourist attraction within the Kootenay National Park. Today there's a cooler swimming pool with a diving board and slides and a large hot pool for soaking. Although popular year-round, the hot springs are a truly magical experience when it's snowing. It's recommended that you bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, and swimsuits and towel rentals are available on-site.