Banff Upper Hot Springs
Banff Upper Hot Springs
4
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
About
All the amenities of a modern facility are featured in this splendid, historic spa and bath house—against a backdrop of spectacular alpine scenery. You will luxuriate in the comfort of soothing hot water where travelers have come to “take the waters” for more than a century. Banff’s premier attraction features: an outdoor terrace, Wonder of Water hydrology exhibit and historic swimsuits (1920's) for rent. Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Last entry is 9:30 p.m. It also offers the Outfitters Gift Shop and the Upper Hot Springs Cafe.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- Debbie SErin, Canada55 contributionsView stunning but way too touristyView is stunning but too many people video chatting. It’s definitely not “relaxing”. No shoes are allowed so if u forget flip flops the floors in the changing area and outside are extremely slippery. My husband almost fell twice. The inside of the pool area/bottom is in need of repair. If you have a CAA card use it to get a discount on entry.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten October 17, 2023
- luv4phoodMarietta, Georgia918 contributionsEnjoy a dip in the hot spring.This is one of those things that you just have to experience. The spring is just an over sized swimming pool with lots of ledges for seating and lounging but the view is spectacular. Be prepared that visitors must wear a swimsuit in the spring. Old style swimsuits are available for rent. On our visit, we were able to park right below the spring and no line to enter. The locker was included in the admission.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten November 15, 2023
- Roam065346894161 contributionAmaaaazing!!Aweome experience. I went with my family and friends and really liked it. we did not go with swimsuits but were glad to find the heritage swimsuits that were available to rent. I definitely would like to visit the hot springs again and if possible would like to buy a pair or 2 of the heritage swim suits.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten November 23, 2023
- IrelandsIslandHopperDunboyne, Ireland176 contributionsIf you’ve been to other thermal springs, you can skip this one…This is a unique, historically important hot spring and that in itself is a reason to visit. However, those in management need to take a good long look at what’s done in mountainous thermal springs around the world for some inspiration… The changing area is overcrowded and uncomfortable. This leaves a bad taste in your mouth before you enter the pool. It really, really doesn’t need to be that way… The pool itself is hot, beautiful and enjoyable. However, there really is NO atmosphere when you’re out there. I’ve been to thermal springs in Iceland, Spain and Switzerland and these are successfully marketed as luxury spas where you feel like you’re in paradise for an hour or two. Here, it feels more like the dunking healing baths in Lourdes rather than a luxury spa. I hope in the future this amazing facility is renovated and its full potential as a top-class amenity is realised.Visited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten December 29, 2023
- Lara WDoncaster, United Kingdom5 contributionsA once in a lifetime experienceWe visited early morning, we were the first in the pool. The facilities are excellent lockers are free and the entry is a reasonable price. In total we were there just over an hour as we had kids age 10 & 11 who found it a little too hot but we got some amazing family pictures there.Visited January 2024Travelled with familyWritten January 3, 2024
- Ana ATacoma, Washington4 contributionsAccessible cost for everyone, Beautiful viewMy husband and I went to Banff in January when it was frigidly cold outside. We took the city bus to Banff Upper Hot Springs in the early afternoon and it was not crowded. I’m sure that made it more enjoyable. The day was pretty clear, so the view was stunning! There was quite a bit of vapor on the pool surface bc it was so cold when we were there and the pool was so hot! I am giving five stars because I like that the hot springs are accessible to the public and not just a spa experience for rich people. The pool had spots on the floor where it was worn away. It didn’t bother me. I didn’t see anything unsafe. I have a community mind set and do not require a luxury experience. There are plenty of hotel and resort spas in and around Banff, but we opted to try the hot springs for a fraction of the cost. That was just my choice this time and I was happy with my experience. I could only stay in for about an hour and a half (dipped in and out, sitting on the seat that lines the inside of the pool and standing to cool half my body). There is a small, basic, but affordable cafe up the stairs on the second floor that also has a nice view from the windows. The locker room was clean and offered the fundamentals - lockers (come with admission), toilet stalls, open shower area (you must shower before going in the pool, which keeps it cleaner for everyone), and bathing suit spinner to help dry your suit. You push a metal knob/button in to get the shower to spray. You have to keep pressing it to complete your pre pool shower. It cuts off after maybe ten seconds, but I understand why as I have walked into many bathrooms where somebody has not turned the water off and it’s just pouring & wasting water!Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten January 24, 2024
- Samuel BNorwich, United Kingdom106 contributionsKinda sucksAverage at best. Price wasn’t too bad but it’s basically a swimming pool with nice views in the winter as well found out thermal water isn’t used in the winter months; so the pool just smells of chlorine and doesn’t have much of that “hot springs” kinda vibe. Lower your expectations and you’ll enjoy it.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten February 9, 2024
- Richard8 contributionsBanff upper hot springsAt the beginning and end of our three-week journey, we made sure to stop by these springs. The views were breathtaking, and the service was impressively efficient. For an unforgettable day, consider starting with a horse ride in the morning and ending with a relaxing visit to the springs in the afternoon. It's the perfect way to ensure you stay limber throughout your trip!Visited February 2024Travelled with friendsWritten March 7, 2024
- savvygourmande76 contributionsSpectacular outdoor experienceBe sure to park outside of the Banff Town site and take the shuttle. The parking lot is not adequate for the popularity of the site and the wait for a parking space is excessive. There is a steep climb up a well maintained street to the hot springs so it is not for those with cardiac frailities.Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten March 20, 2024
- Mayajane81Scarborough, United Kingdom226 contributionsNice place, some staff unfriendly.We went for the opening as it was not the best day weather wise. The lady at the front desk was very robotic in her approach but helpful enough. Locker rooms were great and easy to navigate. The hot springs themselves were at 40c and were clean. The staff didn't interact nor requested people get off their mobile phone- taking calls. This ruined our experience as two people were on their phones talking loudly and it kept ringing for what seemed ages. The majority of guests respected the peace and place we were though which helped. My partner had an issue and the front desk staff were so unhelpful, treating him as stupid instead of just acknowledging the issue they have with lockers. Overall, worth a visit, just hope the staff are on form and no ignorant visitors.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten May 2, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
2,845 reviews
Excellent
905
Very good
938
Average
615
Poor
225
Terrible
162
Stephanie Lam
Hong Kong, China12 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
If you have experience Hot Spring in Japan, you will be vy disappointed for this so called "hot spring". I can only call it as a big bath tub.
During Christmas, we couldn't find a parking lot and gave up. We try again today but still have a long queue.
When I enter to the pool, I feel quite surprised that it looks like a swimming pool but definitely it is smaller than the standard swimming pool. I wonder how they can manage during the peak seasons.
You cant move too much as it is really crowded. You can take a look the conditions before you pay. It is open to public.
Tips - Bring your own towel.
If you forget to bring your towel and swimming suit, you can rent.
During Christmas, we couldn't find a parking lot and gave up. We try again today but still have a long queue.
When I enter to the pool, I feel quite surprised that it looks like a swimming pool but definitely it is smaller than the standard swimming pool. I wonder how they can manage during the peak seasons.
You cant move too much as it is really crowded. You can take a look the conditions before you pay. It is open to public.
Tips - Bring your own towel.
If you forget to bring your towel and swimming suit, you can rent.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TheJ0hns0ns
Port Macquarie, Australia286 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
The water was deliciously warm on a snowy day and the price is right but the whole experience could be better.
There is a system in place with a token given at entry to gain access to some lockers. This wasn’t explained and resulted in a trip back to the front desk which was annoying more than anything else. I wasn’t the only person confused either, so the explanation of the locker and change facilities could improve.
The other thing letting this facility down is the pool itself. It was clean and functional but that’s it. There is no atmosphere, with striped tape across areas and no view. These springs are located on a mountainside in Banff....... there is no excuse for a lack of atmosphere but they have managed to do it!!
Have a look at other thermal pools, such as in Hanmer Springs, which have so much better a feel, atmosphere and the opportunity to find a quiet spot to yourself.
Overall, it was fine but it just lacks ooomph. I probably wouldn’t bother going there again
There is a system in place with a token given at entry to gain access to some lockers. This wasn’t explained and resulted in a trip back to the front desk which was annoying more than anything else. I wasn’t the only person confused either, so the explanation of the locker and change facilities could improve.
The other thing letting this facility down is the pool itself. It was clean and functional but that’s it. There is no atmosphere, with striped tape across areas and no view. These springs are located on a mountainside in Banff....... there is no excuse for a lack of atmosphere but they have managed to do it!!
Have a look at other thermal pools, such as in Hanmer Springs, which have so much better a feel, atmosphere and the opportunity to find a quiet spot to yourself.
Overall, it was fine but it just lacks ooomph. I probably wouldn’t bother going there again
Written January 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ana A
Tacoma, WA4 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
My husband and I went to Banff in January when it was frigidly cold outside. We took the city bus to Banff Upper Hot Springs in the early afternoon and it was not crowded. I’m sure that made it more enjoyable. The day was pretty clear, so the view was stunning! There was quite a bit of vapor on the pool surface bc it was so cold when we were there and the pool was so hot!
I am giving five stars because I like that the hot springs are accessible to the public and not just a spa experience for rich people. The pool had spots on the floor where it was worn away. It didn’t bother me. I didn’t see anything unsafe.
I have a community mind set and do not require a luxury experience. There are plenty of hotel and resort spas in and around Banff, but we opted to try the hot springs for a fraction of the cost. That was just my choice this time and I was happy with my experience.
I could only stay in for about an hour and a half (dipped in and out, sitting on the seat that lines the inside of the pool and standing to cool half my body).
There is a small, basic, but affordable cafe up the stairs on the second floor that also has a nice view from the windows.
The locker room was clean and offered the fundamentals - lockers (come with admission), toilet stalls, open shower area (you must shower before going in the pool, which keeps it cleaner for everyone), and bathing suit spinner to help dry your suit. You push a metal knob/button in to get the shower to spray. You have to keep pressing it to complete your pre pool shower. It cuts off after maybe ten seconds, but I understand why as I have walked into many bathrooms where somebody has not turned the water off and it’s just pouring & wasting water!
I am giving five stars because I like that the hot springs are accessible to the public and not just a spa experience for rich people. The pool had spots on the floor where it was worn away. It didn’t bother me. I didn’t see anything unsafe.
I have a community mind set and do not require a luxury experience. There are plenty of hotel and resort spas in and around Banff, but we opted to try the hot springs for a fraction of the cost. That was just my choice this time and I was happy with my experience.
I could only stay in for about an hour and a half (dipped in and out, sitting on the seat that lines the inside of the pool and standing to cool half my body).
There is a small, basic, but affordable cafe up the stairs on the second floor that also has a nice view from the windows.
The locker room was clean and offered the fundamentals - lockers (come with admission), toilet stalls, open shower area (you must shower before going in the pool, which keeps it cleaner for everyone), and bathing suit spinner to help dry your suit. You push a metal knob/button in to get the shower to spray. You have to keep pressing it to complete your pre pool shower. It cuts off after maybe ten seconds, but I understand why as I have walked into many bathrooms where somebody has not turned the water off and it’s just pouring & wasting water!
Written January 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jamie H-D
Poole, UK1,489 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Absolutely stunning scenery and gorgeous hot water to relax and spend a bit of time in, but it’s a glorified outdoor heated swimming pool, we were expecting it to be a bit ‘more’ with perhaps different areas you could go in to or for the for the pool to be more ‘original’, such as rock, rather than tiled. A shame you only get 1 locker token each too, so you can’t go leaving anything in the locker you might want! Still a very enjoyable experience and something we were glad to do. We wanted to spend more time afterwards, unfortunately for unknown reasons the restaurant / bistro was closed possibly due to being out of season, but it was busy and to have a refreshment would have elevated the experience, make sure to bring bottles of water in non-breakable material.
Written April 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bob C
Steamboat Springs, CO65 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
Who.e staying at Banff for a ski trip I did visit the hot springs and was not disappointed. The facility is very clean the spring water was hot and felt great after a hard day of skiing. It was easily accessible by public transportation. If you forget to pack a bathing suit, no problem, they rent them. A locker with a lock is included. I would suggest bringing a hotel towel to dry off as they charge for towels at the site
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vishtron
Houston, TX23 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
The “hot spring” is more like a giant pool with hot water. The water supposedly comes from a source on the mountain (sulfur mountain) but is chlorinated and temperature controlled to 98*F. 3 stars for the views. This is a giant hot tub with a Million people than a hot spring. Hardly any place to even stand. While the warm waters feel good, the chlorine really sucks the moisture out of your skin.
No shoes in the changing room (might be a good thing considering the traffic) and showers are communal. They rent towels and historic bathing suits out for a dollar each (?)
No shoes in the changing room (might be a good thing considering the traffic) and showers are communal. They rent towels and historic bathing suits out for a dollar each (?)
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ankur g
41 contributions
Sept 2021 • Family
Love the place . They provide the towels and swim wear on the spot with very minimal charges. The water is hot and relaxing in the cold weather. It is open space and you can take shower. The only one suggestion which they can improve is the locker which works only once per token ( which is purchased). If you unlock the locker again it will not lock again..
Written September 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nic
Calgary, Canada11 contributions
Oct 2019 • Couples
Love coming here when the weather starts cooling down, it is usually very busy but if you're comfortable with crowds it's a great post-hike or post-shopping activity to ease sore feet and relax with a beautiful mountain view. Sometimes the water temperature can fluctuate quite a bit (from fairly WARM to really HOT) so it's actually a good idea to call ahead and ask what the current temperature is... I love extremely hot so I've been disappointed before on a day where the water was just in the warm range
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LTS
Edinburgh, UK3 contributions
Sept 2023 • Friends
Pool shabby and in need of maintenance. Felt grubby and not very hygienic. Locker token for one use only-if you forget to put something in you need to pay for another token and that is if lockers work in first place. If you are staying in Moose Hotel use roof top spa facilities don't waste time going to public springs.
Written September 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emilia
2 contributions
Sept 2023 • Friends
The experience in the pool was ok, not too crowded because of rainy day. Customer service at the front desk was horrible. Cashier was really rude, treated us like idiots especially if we ask something. The environment felt pretty unhygienic and showets wasn’t working well. Water at the showets went surprisingly between burning hot and cold.
Written September 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Coming Oct16-17 - in order to come to the hot springs do you have to take the gondola? Or are they separate attractions? TIA
Written September 14, 2024
Hello, The Banff Upper Hot Springs facility will be fully closed from October 1st to 18th, 2024, for pool maintenance. Thank you.
Written September 24, 2024
Hi How much is the Banff Gondola
Written May 14, 2023
It is spectacular view of our famous ROCKY ! price reasonable , for general $65 Can and Senior $59 Can kids 6to15 is 32.50 ! must do ! give your self a lot of time to enjoy the wonderful mother natural !
Written May 16, 2023
Are the showers individual stalls or is it communal? Are there all gender/unisex shower rooms?
Written August 2, 2022
there are separate showers communal for females and for males in the locker rooms and also I have seen a separate stall for either gender.
Written August 3, 2022
Does anyone know the cost for 2 adults at the hotsprings?
Written September 10, 2019
It’s 8.30 per person and that price includes one locker token but towel rentals are extra.
Written September 10, 2019
Yes, parking will fill up quickly this time of year and remain tight until peak season ends in September. There is also some road construction currently going on in the parking lot area. Parking is shared with the Banff Gondola. Arrive EARLY for best access to parking.
Written May 26, 2019
bbmorrow1
Yes there are lockers as part of the entry fee, you get a key on a tag, you can also hire/get a towel at a moderate cost
It is suggested that you shower before and after being in the pool
Written October 10, 2018
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