Banff Hot Springs

## Overview Banff Upper Hot Springs is one of Canada's most iconic geothermal bathing destinations, perched at an elevation of approximately 1,585 metres (5,200 feet) on the slopes of Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park, Alberta. As the highest accessible hot spring in the Canadian Rockies, it offers visitors a rare chance to soak in naturally heated mineral water while gazing out at sweeping panoramas of snow-dusted peaks, evergreen valleys, and the Bow River corridor below. The story of these springs dates back to November 1883, when three Canadian Pacific Railway workers — Frank McCabe, William McCardell, and their brother Thomas — stumbled upon a steaming cave on the mountainside that concealed a pool of hot sulphurous water. Word of the discovery spread quickly, and by 1885 the Canadian government set aside a 26-square-kilometre reserve around the springs — a decision that ultimately led to the creation of Banff National Park, Canada's first national park, in 1887. For well over a century, visitors have been drawn here by the reputed therapeutic qualities of the mineral-rich water, which contains a blend of sulphate, calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, and sodium. The water originates as precipitation that percolates deep underground, is geothermally heated, and is then pushed back to the surface through fissures in the ancient limestone and dolomite bedrock, absorbing dissolved minerals along the way. Today the facility is operated by Parks Canada and features a large outdoor pool maintained at temperatures between approximately 37 °C and 40 °C (98–104 °F). It remains one of the last publicly accessible thermal pools in the Banff area and draws visitors from around the world year-round. ## Directions 1. From the town of Banff, head south on Banff Avenue toward the Bow River bridge. 2. Cross the bridge and continue straight, following signs for **Mountain Avenue / Sulphur Mountain**. 3. Turn right onto Mountain Avenue and follow the winding road uphill for approximately 3.5 km (2.2 miles). 4. The Banff Upper Hot Springs facility and parking lot will be on your left at the end of Mountain Avenue, near the Banff Gondola base station. 5. **By public transit:** The ROAM Transit system (Route 1 — Sulphur Mountain) runs from downtown Banff directly to the hot springs. Check current schedules at roamtransit.com. 6. There is a paved parking lot that accommodates both cars and RVs. From the lot, a short paved path leads to the pool entrance and facilities. ## What to Expect **The Pool & Soak Experience** The main attraction is the large outdoor thermal pool, filled with naturally sourced hot spring water. The pool temperature is kept between roughly 37 °C and 40 °C (98–104 °F), making it comfortable in every season. Winter visits are especially memorable — soaking in steaming water while snowflakes drift down and the surrounding peaks glow white is an experience visitors rarely forget. In summer, the backdrop shifts to lush green forests and wildflower meadows. **Facilities & Amenities** - **Changing rooms & showers:** All bathers are required to shower before entering the pool. Separate men's and women's change rooms include lockers and showers. - **Rental services:** Forgot your swimsuit? Towels and bathing suits (including vintage-style options) are available to rent on-site. - **Café:** A small on-site eatery serves quick bites. In warmer months, expect options like hot lunches and ice cream. - **Gift shop:** Browse souvenirs ranging from small keepsakes to retro-style swimwear — a fun memento of your visit. **Hours & Seasonal Notes** Operating hours vary by season and are subject to change on holidays. As a general guide: - **January – May:** Daily from approximately 10:00 AM, with closing times between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM depending on the day (Friday and Saturday tend to stay open latest). - **November – December:** Similar daily hours, generally 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM on weekends. - **Summer hours** may differ. Always check the official Parks Canada website or call ahead for the most current schedule and admission fees. **Tips for Your Visit** - Arrive early in the morning for the smallest crowds and the most peaceful soak. - Winter is peak season due to the après-ski crowd — the combination of cold mountain air and hot mineral water is hard to beat, but expect longer waits on weekends and holidays. - The facility is a paid attraction; admission fees apply and are set by Parks Canada. - While you're in the area, consider riding the nearby Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for 360-degree views, or exploring the Cave and Basin National Historic Site — the very spot where those railway workers first discovered the hot springs in 1883.