Banff Hot Springs

The Banff Hot Springs are a must-do Banff experience. Throughout history, we have sought out the mineral and healing properties of thermal hot springs to restore health and promote relaxation. Why ignore what is only natural? The Banff Hot Springs, or Upper Hot Springs as it is also called, offers waters that range from 37 and 40 degrees Celsius (98 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit) only a short drive or taxi ride outside of Banff townsite. The springs are run by the Park, which is only fitting in that the discovery of the springs by Canadian Pacific railwayman in the 1880s led to the establishment of Banff National Park.

The springs are popular: no question at all about that. While a relaxing soak after your hike or day skiing/snowboarding will sound fantastic to your aching muscles, just be aware that the apres-ski and tour bus crowd will be overrunning the Upper Hot Springs at that time as well. The best time to go is about an hour before closing time, when the pool is clearing out. Don't worry, the water is still hot.

Attached to the hot pool is the Pleiades spa, which can take out any remaining kinks in your muscles that the thermal hot springs miss.

GETTING THERE

If you are driving, head towards the old Park Administration building (the lovely stone building on the other side of the river from Banff Avenue, which Banff Avenue runs smack into). Turn left at the T-intersection at the end of the bridge and then make your first right. Follow the signs to the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

If you are taking public transit, the Banff Roam Bus Route 3 - Sulphur Mountain goes to the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Get route information and schedules from the campground kiosks, the Parks Canada Information Centre on Banff Avenue, or the lobbies/concierges of most hotels.

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