Kraus Hot Springs on the Nahanni River

A highlight for many who journey down the Nahanni River with us is a relaxing soak in the soothing 32°C waters of Kraus Hot Springs.

We arrive at Kraus Hot Springs after paddling through Nahanni’s spectacular First Canyon, the steepest and deepest of them all.  This sulfuric hot spring is an idyllic spa in the wilderness. It smells like rotten eggs but it feels like heaven.

The hotsprings were named after Mary and Gus Kraus who resided there between 1940 and 1971. The only structure remaining is a small cabin which functioned as an outbuilding. Garden parsnip and a few other exotic plants grow in the area, a legacy from the Kraus’ garden.

Further Reading

Small cabin located at Kraus Hot Springs.
Soaking in Kraus Hot Springs
Hotsprings mud "spa treatments" on the Nahanni River. (Photo: Noel Hendrickson)

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Joel Hibbard

Joel Hibbard

Joel is an owner, outfitter and guide with Canadian River Expeditions. His favourite paddling trip is the upper stretches of the Nahanni River which saves him from having to choose which part of the park he enjoys most! Joel has a lifetime of experience in the Nahanni and looks forward to sharing the beauty, history and adventure of the North with you.

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