Banff Upper Hot Springs
- Admission
- $17.50 CAD adults, $15.25 CAD seniors and youth, free for children under 3
- Hours
- 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Free parking lot on-site, though spaces are limited. Public transit via Roam Transit Route 1 is highly recommended.
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible facility with a pool lift and aquatic wheelchairs available.
Soak in the steaming, mineral-rich waters of Canada's highest-elevation hot springs, situated 1,581 meters above sea level. This historic bathhouse offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Rundle across the valley. Remarkably, the springs were discovered in 1883, helping trigger the creation of Canada's national park system.
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Discovered in 1883 by railway workers, the Banff Upper Hot Springs have drawn travelers to the Canadian Rockies for over a century. These natural, mineral-rich geothermal waters played a pivotal role in the establishment of Banff National Park, Canada's very first national park.
Today, visitors can soak in the outdoor pool while taking in panoramic views of Mount Rundle across the valley. The pool's temperature is kept between 37°C and 40°C (98°F to 104°F), offering a soothing contrast to the crisp alpine air.
The facility beautifully blends modern amenities with its historic 1930s heritage bathhouse architecture. It remains one of the most accessible and iconic thermal experiences in North America, preserving a classic Canadian Rockies tradition.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to secure entry and avoid the longest lines.
- ◆ Rent a vintage-style 1930s swimsuit at the front desk for a fun, retro photo opportunity.
- ◆ Bring your own towel and flip-flops to save on rental fees, though both are available on-site.
- ◆ Combine your soak with a ride on the nearby Banff Gondola, which is located just a short walk away.
Heads Up
- ◆ Wait times can exceed an hour during peak summer weekends and winter ski season afternoons.
- ◆ The high mineral content in the water can tarnish silver jewelry, so it is best to leave valuables in your locker.
- ◆ Limit your soak time to 15-20 minutes at a time and stay hydrated to prevent lightheadedness from the heat.
Common questions
Do you need a reservation for the Banff Upper Hot Springs?
No, access is strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations cannot be made in advance. During peak times, such as holiday weekends and winter evenings, there may be a wait line to enter.
Can you rent swimsuits and towels at the hot springs?
Yes, towel and swimsuit rentals are available at the front desk for a small fee. They also offer heritage-style, one-piece swimsuits that resemble what visitors wore in the 1930s.
Is there a bus from downtown Banff to the hot springs?
Yes, Roam Transit Route 1 runs regularly between downtown Banff and the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Taking the bus is highly recommended because the vehicle parking lot at the hot springs is small and frequently fills up.