Maquinna Provincial Park is named in honour of 'Maquinna', an 18th century First Nations chief and family. These beautiful, secluded lans were traditionally used by the First Nations of this area, notably the Hesquiaht, Ahousat and Manhousaht bands. Fishers have also long relied on the sheltered waters in 'Refuge Cove', now known as Hot Springs Cove, for safe haven, riding out poor weather or wainting for the fishing season to open. A small community occupied this area from the late 1920's to the early 1970's, building a store, gas station, one room school, a few houses and boat docks.

In 1955, Maquinna was established as a Class A provincial park through a 39 hectare donation by the Clarke family, long time residents of the area. An additional 2,628 hectare were added to the park in 1995 to protect both foreshore and upland areas. Although the park is well known for the natural hot springs nestled in the shoreline on Openit Peninsula (Sharp Point), it also protects extensive offshore beaches, sea caves, kelp beds and mudflats.

The trail to the spring was created over time by First Nations and later by early settlers who created the original boardwalk. Due to deterioration and safety concers, a new boardwalk and facilities were constrcuted in 1995 and 1997.

Hot Springs Village 1954.

Hot Springs Village 2006.

Maquinna Provincial Park is a special environment and a semi-wilderness area. Please pratice 'No Trace' ethics which include the following:

Camping - Do not camp inside the park. A private campground is available to the north of the Government wharf and the Innchanter is docked at the wharf.

Hiking - Stay on designated trails and boardwalks. Avoid trampling vegetation. Use caution when walking on the boardwlak and steps: wood may be slippery when wet. Please allow at least 30 minutes to walk the 2 kilometres from the wharf to the springs.

Sanitation - The park is equpped with 2 composting toilets: one at the entrance to the park and one near the hotsprings. Please read the informaiton posted on the inside of the buildings.

Pets - Pets are not allowed on the boardwalk and in the hot springs area. Please observe and obey all signs. Pets must be kept a leash at all times.

Hotsprings - Please do not use soap or soap products in or around the springs. Do not use glass bottles and containers in and around the springs.

This is a remote semi-wilderness location. Emergency services are limited. There is no reliable cell phone coverage. In case of emergency contact the Canadian Coast Guard on marine VHF radio channel 16.

Black bears and cougars frequent this park. Do not leave food or garbage out in the open. Keep children close. The boardwalk is slippery when wet.

Food Store: Marktosis Grocery in Ahousat. Limited supplies available in Hotsprings Village store across the Inlet. Gasoline: Hotsprings Village and Ahousat. Propane: Tofino. Laundromat: Tofino. Nearest RCMP detachment: Ahousat. Canadian Coast Guard VHF Channel 16.