Experience in Banff
Banff Upper Hot Springs Soak
The Banff Upper Hot Springs are the original reason Banff exists. In 1883, railway workers stumbled upon hot springs on the slopes of Sulphur Mountain — and the discovery ultimately led to the creation of Canada's first national park, established in 1885 to protect the area. Today, the springs feed a large outdoor pool maintained at 37–40°C year-round, perched at 1,585m elevation with an unobstructed view of Mount Rundle and the Bow Valley. The mineral-rich water (primarily sodium, calcium, and magnesium bicarbonate) is naturally heated by geothermal processes deep beneath the mountain. The experience is best in winter: soaking in 38°C water while snow falls around you and steam rises into cold mountain air is one of the most purely pleasurable things you can do in Banff. The facility is well-run, clean, and accessible — but busy on weekends and in summer. Weekday morning visits in shoulder season offer the pool almost to yourself.
- Category
- Wellness
- Location
- Banff
- Duration
- 2 hours