Hot Springs at Banff, Canada
Inside Canada's First National Park, Enjoy the Healing Waters
The Upper Hot Springs at Banff, Alberta, Canada offer a low-cost, accessible and unusual experience. The water is pleasant and the surroundings magnificent, all year.
Whether or not you believe that mineral-rich water from natural hot springs has magical healing powers, it's still very pleasant to lounge in a hot pool, especially after an active day in the mountains.
Banff - Canada's First National Park
The town of Banff, Alberta is inside Banff National Park, about 130 kilometres west of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. One of Canada's largest national parks, as well as being the first, Banff National Park has always been renowned for its beauty. The Rocky Mountains encircle the townsite, offering spectacular views in every direction.
The Park was created after people realized that the mountain site and the natural hot springs were something that most people would love to enjoy. Of course, the philosophy of national parks goes beyond visitor enjoyment and tourism. Banff National Park is an important conservation area, and a link in the chain of parks running up the Rocky Mountain slopes.
Upper Hot Springs
From the Banff townsite, it's easy to locate the Upper Hot Springs. The Lower Hot Springs have operated as public pools, but that is not currently the case. The Upper Hot Springs are the location you want if you are looking for a dip.
The main street of Banff is Banff Avenue. Parks Canada's website gives these directions:
- "The Upper Hot Springs are on Mountain Avenue, four kilometres south of the Town of Banff.
- Follow Banff Avenue over the Bow River and turn left (east) at the last set of traffic lights.
- Follow the signs for 3.6 km to the Hot Springs parking lot at the end of Mountain Avenue."
Facilities at the Upper Hot Springs:
- parking, including parking for RVs and larger vehicles. However, in high season, especially July and August, parking can be difficult and you may be more comfortable travelling by bus. Ask at the Information Centre on Banff Avenue.
- handicapped parking is available for vehicles with the blue tag
- swimsuits, towels, and lockers may all be rented as required
- universally accessible changing facilities
- ramp and railings to assist in entering the hot pool
If you have any questions about the accessibility features, or anything to do with Banff National Park, the best resource is Parks Canada. Their Information Centre on Banff Avenue is open every day. The Park website has useful planning information.
What the Hot Springs are Like
In a word, wonderful! Particularly when it's cool or even very cold outside, with snowflakes falling, the experience of sitting in hot water gazing at the blue and white Rocky Mountains, even with other people around, is a profound and inspiring thing. It's also fun and relaxing.
Insider Tips
As a resident of Calgary, I avoid the Banff townsite at high season. If possible, try to avoid the weekends, major holidays, and July and August generally. But - if you do go during the crowded times, you can still enjoy yourself, don't worry! The town and the park are used to accommodating many visitors.
Stopping at the Visitor Information Centre is an excellent idea, as they have up-to-date information and advice on how to get the most out of your visit.
If you have the chance to go into the hot springs in the winter - do it! It is an exhilirating, comfortable experience which will complete your visit to the Rockies wonderfully.
At $7.40 per adult (2007 prices), with lower prices for seniors, children and families, this is one of the best travel bargains you will find anywhere.
More about Banff and the Columbia Icefield:
