Top Hot Springs in Banff and Jasper
Top Hot Springs in Banff & Jasper: Relax, Rejuvenate, and Explore Canada’s Natural Wonders
A hot spring is a natural pool of geothermally heated water that emerges from the Earth’s crust. These mineral-rich waters are warmed deep underground and flow to the surface, creating soothing places to relax. People have enjoyed hot springs for centuries, not only for their comfort but also for their cultural, spiritual, and health significance.
Why Hot Springs in Canada Are Special
Canada’s hot springs, especially those in the Canadian Rockies, are unique because of their setting. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, towering mountains, and turquoise lakes, soaking in a natural hot spring here is more than relaxation—it’s an unforgettable experience. Banff and Jasper National Parks, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are home to some of the most scenic and historic hot springs in North America.
Health Benefits of Hot Springs
Bathing in hot springs is believed to offer many health benefits. The warm mineral waters can help ease muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce stress, and soothe joint pain. The combination of heat, minerals, and fresh mountain air creates a natural wellness therapy that rejuvenates both body and mind.
1. Banff Upper Hot Springs (Banff, Alberta)
Historic “bathhouse” tradition since 1886, housed in a federal heritage building.
Scenic location: outdoor mineral pool with views of Mount Rundle & Sulphur Mountain. Natural mineral waters help with relaxation.
When It’s Open / Seasonal & Closures
Operates year-round (even in winter) under normal circumstances.
Best times: spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for fewer crowds. Also early morning (opening) or later evening before closing.
Ticket Cost, Parking Availability
Admission (single entry) for adult etc: same as Miette / Radium pricing (e.g. $17.50 for adults; youth/senior lower) per “Canadian Rockies Hot Springs” pricing scheme.
Parking: Available, but limited especially in peak times. Arrive early or late to improve chances. Overflow parking along Mountain Avenue.
Nearby Activities / What You Can Do
Hiking trails around Banff: short walks or longer hikes. Sulphur Mountain Gondola is nearby.
2. Miette Hot Springs (Jasper National Park, Alberta)
It is the hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies.
Beautiful setting: 4 mountain-view pools, scenic drive along Fiddle Valley.
When It’s Open / Seasonal & Closures
Seasonal: reopens in May; closes after Thanksgiving weekend / mid-October
Busiest in summer (mid-June to early September), weekends. Also busy in daytime.
Ticket Cost, Parking Availability
Admission (single entry) roughly: adult (18-64) ~$17.50; Youth / Senior ~$15.25; child under 3 free.
Parking: Accessible parking behind bathhouse; general parking in main lot; some restrictions for large vehicles.
Nearby Activities / What You Can Do
Hiking: there are trails near Miette, including “Source of the Springs” trail.
3. Radium Hot Springs (Kootenay National Park, British Columbia)
Warmer side of the Rockies, located in Kootenay NP with dramatic Sinclair Canyon cliffs around. Family-friendly pools with both hot soaking and cool swimming.
When It’s Open / Seasonal & Closures
Open year-round (hot pool daily; cool pool has reduced hours in winter).
Peak summer, weekends, holidays are busiest. Early mornings or later evenings quieter. Off-peak (fall/winter) is less busy.
Ticket Cost, Parking Availability
Similar pricing to other Canadian Rockies Hot Springs: Adult ~$17.50; Youth / Senior ~$15.25; family rates.
Parking: available at the facility; accessible parking is provided.
Nearby Activities / What You Can Do
Outdoor options: hiking, sightseeing in Kootenay NP, wildlife viewing. River, mountain scenery.
4. Lussier Hot Springs (Whiteswan Provincial Park, British Columbia)
Natural rock pools along Lussier River; fully natural experience (no big bathhouse). Mix of hot pools and cooling off in river or cooler pools downstream.
When It’s Open / Seasonal & Closures
Generally accessible year-round, though there are temporary closures for safety (falling rocks, high water) and road/forest service‐road conditions.
Most visitors in spring, summer, fall on weekends. Less busy weekdays, early morning or evening. Winters are quieter but access may be harder (road, cold).
Ticket Cost, Parking Availability
There is no admission fee; it’s free.
Parking is a small lot off the forest service road; limited spaces (~20 cars). Basic amenities at parking: pit toilets. No full infrastructures (no showers, no big change rooms).
Nearby Activities / What You Can Do
Nearby: hiking and lakes in Whiteswan Provincial Park (e.g. Alces Lake, camping).
5. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort (BC)
Known as Canada’s largest mineral hot springs resort in the BC Rockies.
Resort offers a full package: relaxing pools, spa amenities, a year-round facility, lodging, and many outdoor activities (golf, hiking, etc.).
When It’s Open / Seasonal & Closures
The resort is open year-round.
Shoulder seasons: late spring (May-early June) or early fall (September) offer fewer crowds, still good weather.
Nearby Activities / What You Can Do
Outdoor Activities: hiking & walking trails around the resort & in the Columbia Valley. Examples: Fairmont Creek Waterfall hike, Spirit Trail, Hoodoos Trail.
Golf: multiple courses at the resort: Riverside, Mountainside, and a Par-3 (Creekside).
Family & Leisure: Fun parks (Funtasia Fun Park), mini golf, bumper cars, zip lines (Mineral Mountain Ziplines)
What to Be Aware Of / What to Bring
Bring your swimsuit, towel (though rentals available), flip-flops/slippers.
Park pass: since this is inside Banff National Park, you’ll need a Parks Canada pass.
In very cold weather: surfaces may be slippery, dress in layers for before/after soak. Limit soaking duration to avoid overheating.
Check closure notices (for maintenance etc) before planning.
End Your Day at Y Not Today
After a long day of soaking in the Rockies’ natural hot springs, make your way back to Calgary and treat yourself at Y Not Today Café. Relax with a refreshing bubble tea, share a bowl of fluffy Bingsu, and enjoy some cozy board games. It’s the perfect way to end your mountain adventure while connecting with friends in a warm and welcoming space.
Check out our posts about Top 7 Larch Hikes in Banff: Best Trails for Golden Fall Views
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