Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park

We all decided that we could not duplicate the beautiful campsites at Muncho Lake. So instead of breaking camp and moving up to Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park we stayed put for another day. Consequently, we had to make the trek of 50 km one way to enjoy the springs. We knew it would be okay since the scenery is stunningly beautiful. This was our first glimpse of  the fast flowing Liard River and the bridge over the river.

Liard River Hot Springs is a unique and fragile place. It is the second largest known thermal spring complex in Canada.  At least six springs feed into different pools and streams before draining into a marsh.  The further from the source the cooler the water. The total volume of water flowing through the complex is 120 to 130 litres per second. The springs are unusual because they drain into a series of swamps instead of streams and creeks creating a unique habitat. The result is a wetland that doesn’t freeze even in the heart of winter. The warm micro-climate influences the wetland vegetation, including carnivorous plants, chara algae, and ferns. Delicate orchids grow on the islands of tufa. Mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians are drawn to the abundant swamp vegetation and insect life. Moose frequent the area to feed on the aquatic plants which are richer than land plants in minerals. We saw our share of moose footprints.

Ostrich Fern

From aboriginals to fur traders to gold miners, people are attracted to the hot springs. We were no different. The American Army built the first boardwalk and pool facilities in 1942 during the construction of the Alaska Highway.

At the Alpha Pool where we went in the temp is 36 degrees C. As the water ventures downstream it starts to cool. By the time it reaches the marches its 12 degrees C.

The hot springs water bubbles through porous limestone dissolving calcium and other minerals. These minerals react with air and are deposited on the surface where they harden into stone to form tufa. Tufa forms the terraced base for the greenery and flowers of the Hanging Garden.

 All in all it was a perfect day. The sun was shining, the lunch was great, and Susan was happy because the water was warm. My life is good.