Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site

Gandll K'in Gwaayaay (Hot Spring Island)

Soaking in the Beach Pool
© Parks Canada / D. Kendrick

Gandll K'in Gwaayaay (Haida for Hot-Water-Island) was well known for the healing and spiritual qualities of its natural thermal pools. This is a sacred place for the Haida. There was a village located on the east side of the island but little evidence is visible today.

The best place to come ashore is on the northeast side of the island. A short trail leads through lush forest to the Watchmen cabin. After signing in, please rinse off in the nearby bathhouse, whose showers are fed by the springs. The largest pool is nestled amidst salal bushes and crabapple trees. A trail leads up and over a seepage meadow to the cliff-side pool. Relax while enjoying views over Juan Perez Strait to the rugged peaks of Moresby Island. Further down the trail, the more intimate beachside pool is only steps away from the ocean.

Cliff pool
© Parks Canada / Kate Alexander