Upper Hot Springs Tours

Upper Hot Springs
Upper Hot Springs
Upper Hot Springs
Upper Hot Springs
Upper Hot Springs showing a pool, tranquil scenes and swimming


Rejuvenate your body in the geothermal waters of these historic hot springs while admiring the exquisite views of Banff National Park.

Upper Hot Springs is a thermal pool within the gorgeous landscapes of Banff National Park. Come here to relax in the geothermally heated and bubbling mineral water that flows from the Earth’s crust through the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault. Marvel at panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains as the therapeutic water cleanses and soothes your body. Have a scenic picnic or eat at the café at Upper Hot Springs.

Canadian Pacific Railroad workers discovered the springs in 1883. Prior to this, the site was most likely a sacred bathing place for First Nations people. The natural water temperature fluctuates between 81 F (27 C) and 116 F (47 C). Enjoy the pool at a full level even during winter, when the reduced amount of spring water is supplemented by municipal water.

The hot springs have been developed for tourism with a bathhouse, changing facilities and lifeguard service. Soak in the warm water and experience its revitalizing qualities. Gaze up at the surrounding snow-capped mountain peaks and alpine forests. Visit in the winter months for the chance to bathe in the hot water while snowflakes fall from the sky onto your head and shoulders.

Bring your own food to eat at the picnic tables set on a terrace above the pool. Purchase drinks and snacks from the on-site café. Browse for handicrafts and souvenirs at the gift shop.

You’ll find the hot springs about 3 miles (4 kilometers) south of Banff’s town center within the national park, which requires an entry fee. Public buses operate between the attraction and Banff. Park at the entrance to the pools. Nearby is the Banff Gondola, a scenic cable car with access to hiking trails and a walkway atop Sulphur Mountain. You can also hike from the springs to the top of the mountain along the Sulphur Mountain Trail.

Upper Hot Springs is open daily until late in the evening. It closes for yearly maintenance in late October. Pay a fee to use the pools. Lockers, swimsuits and towels are available for rent. Visit the springs’ official website for more information.

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Best Lodging Options Near Upper Hot Springs

Fairmont Banff Springs

Fairmont Banff Springs

4 out of 5
405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB
Fairmont Banff Springs
Rimrock Resort Hotel Banff by Accor

Rimrock Resort Hotel Banff by Accor

4 out of 5
300 Moutain Avenue, Banff, AB
Rimrock Resort Hotel Banff by Accor
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa

Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa

3.5 out of 5
521 Banff Ave, Box 1070, Banff, AB
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa
Otter Hotel

Otter Hotel

4 out of 5
1000 600 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
Otter Hotel
The Fox Hotel and Suites

The Fox Hotel and Suites

3.5 out of 5
461 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
The Fox Hotel and Suites
Brewster Mountain Lodge

Brewster Mountain Lodge

3 out of 5
208 Caribou Street, Banff, AB
Brewster Mountain Lodge
Hotel Canoe and Suites

Hotel Canoe and Suites

4 out of 5
600 Banff Avenue, 2000, Banff, AB
Hotel Canoe and Suites
Peaks Hotel and Suites

Peaks Hotel and Suites

3 out of 5
218 Lynx Street,, P.O. Box 2200,, Banff, AB
Peaks Hotel and Suites
Fairmont Banff Springs Gold Experience

Fairmont Banff Springs Gold Experience

4 out of 5
405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB
Fairmont Banff Springs Gold Experience
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Upper Hot Springs

Explore the stunning landscapes around Upper Hot Springs with exciting activities like skiing and hiking. Enjoy local attractions, including thrilling water slides and scenic snowmobile areas, ensuring a memorable visit to Banff. Whether you're hitting the slopes or soaking in the hot springs, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful Canadian destination.

Food and drinks

For a taste of local brews, visit Canmore Brewing Company, just 10 miles from Upper Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a romantic atmosphere and great entertainment. Don’t miss out on Chili's Grill for a satisfying meal that captures the region's flavors.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, the Canmore Mountain Market, located 10 miles away from Upper Hot Springs, offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families and businesses alike. You’ll find unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of the Rockies.

Recreation

At the Banff Springs Golf Club, enjoy stunning mountain views while playing a round of golf just 2 miles from Upper Hot Springs. For relaxation, head to Sunshine Meadows, 9 miles away, where you can immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. The Rocky Mountain Adaptive Sports Centre, located 10 miles away, offers inclusive recreational activities for wellness seekers.

Adventure

At Mount Norquay Ski Resort, located 4 miles from Upper Hot Springs, experience exhilarating skiing amidst breathtaking mountain views. For hiking enthusiasts, the Banff Legacy Trail, 2 miles away, offers scenic trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the area. Don't miss the Cascade Ski Lift, 4 miles away, for an adventurous ride up the slopes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Fairmont Banff Springs Bowling Centre, located a mile from Upper Hot Springs. Enjoy a fun evening of bowling in a stylish setting, perfect for both relaxation and excitement after a day of exploring the stunning Banff scenery.

Find the best attractions near Upper Hot Springs

Upper Hot Springs in Banff, Alberta, offers a variety of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike. Explore the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park, relax in the famous Banff Hot Springs, and take a ride on the Banff Gondola for breathtaking mountain views. Don't miss visiting nearby landmarks and hotels that enhance your adventure in the picturesque Rocky Mountains.

  • Banff National Park Information Centre: Located just 2 miles from Upper Hot Springs, this visitor center serves as the perfect starting point for your adventures. With a family-friendly atmosphere, you can gather essential information about the park's outdoor activities, trails, and wildlife, making it a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.
  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity: Also 2 miles away, this modern institution merges culture with nature, offering city vibes amidst the stunning mountain backdrop. Attend workshops, view art exhibitions, or enjoy performances that celebrate creativity and the arts.
  • Tunnel Mountain: A short distance from Upper Hot Springs, Tunnel Mountain offers breathtaking scenery and exhilarating hiking trails. Experience the thrill of outdoor adventure as you climb to the summit for panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding landscape.

Best time to go to Upper Hot Springs

Visitor numbers around Upper Hot Springs is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Upper Hot Springs can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Upper Hot Springs falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Upper Hot Springs falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January13.5°F (-10.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowModerately Low
February12.9°F (-10.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March22.3°F (-5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April30.6°F (-0.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately Low
May41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighModerately High
July57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighModerately High
August56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighModerately High
September46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October32.7°F (0.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November19.2°F (-7.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowModerately Low
December10.2°F (-12.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Upper Hot Springs

To save money during your visit to Upper Hot Springs in Banff, consider exploring free attractions like Tunnel Mountain, Bow Falls, and Vermilion Lakes. For accommodation, January, April, and November offer the lowest hotel rates, while booking about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can yield better prices. Utilize Expedia’s tools to filter by budget and preferences, and consider bundling your hotel with flights for additional savings. Joining the One Key membership grants exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays, ensuring you get the best deals available.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Upper Hot Springs is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Upper Hot Springs are January, April and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Upper Hot Springs about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget and desired location, among other preferences. You can organize your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Upper Hot Springs with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.