Takhini Hot Springs
Yukon
Takhini Hot Springs is a natural geothermal site located approximately 28 kilometers from Whitehorse in Yukon, Canada. The springs feature two pools with different temperatures, the hot pool averaging 42°C and the cool pool around 36°C, both fed by water emerging at 46.5°C from an underground source. The water takes at least 60 years to travel underground, reaching temperatures up to 95°C before cooling as it surfaces. Known locally as Jim Boss' Bathtub, the site has a rich history of use by First Nations people for centuries. Commercial development began in the early 20th century, with the first wooden pool constructed in the 1940s for the U.S. Army during the Alaska Highway construction. The current concrete pools and facilities date from the 1970s with renovations in 2008. Besides its therapeutic waters, Takhini Hot Springs hosts the annual International Hair Freezing Contest, attracting visitors who create artistic frozen hairstyles in subzero temperatures. The surrounding area experiences a subarctic climate, enhancing the unique experience of soaking in hot water amid snowy landscapes.
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Tip: The best time to visit Takhini Hot Springs is during the winter months from December to March to experience the famous International Hair Freezing Contest on days when temperatures drop below −20°C. Visitors should consider purchasing passes in advance during this period due to increased popularity. The site offers over 80 campground sites for those wishing to stay overnight. No sulfurous odor means a more pleasant soaking experience. Warm clothing is recommended for outdoor areas.
Interesting facts
- •The water emerges from the earth at 46.5°C and flows at a rate of 385 liters per minute.
- •It takes at least 60 years for the water to travel underground before surfacing.
- •The pools do not have the typical sulfurous odor common in many hot springs.
- •The International Hair Freezing Contest, held annually since 2011, draws hundreds of participants who style their hair into frozen sculptures in subzero temperatures.
- •The contest includes multiple categories and awards cash prizes and free passes to winners.
History
Takhini Hot Springs has been used for centuries by First Nations peoples, originally known as Jim Boss' Bathtub after a local chief.
In 1902, William Puckett and A.R.
Gordon applied for a lease and later purchased the land in 1907 to commercially develop the springs for their therapeutic benefits.
The first pool was constructed in the 1940s for use by the U.S.
Army building the Alaska Highway.
Subsequent concrete pools were built in 1950 and replaced in the 1970s, with major renovations completed in 2008 to modernize the facilities.
Place Guide
Hot and Cool Pools
The facility features two main pools: a hot pool averaging 42°C and a cooler pool around 36°C, both fed by natural geothermal water. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic warmth and relax in contrasting temperatures.
Campground
Takhini Hot Springs offers a campground with over 80 sites, allowing visitors to stay overnight and enjoy the natural surroundings and hot springs for multiple days.
International Hair Freezing Contest2011
An annual winter event where visitors create artistic frozen hairstyles while soaking in the hot springs on days below −20°C. The contest has several categories with cash prizes and free hot spring passes awarded.
