Banff Upper Hot Springs — Attraction in Alberta

Banff Upper Hot Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Canadian Rockies. Perched high on Sulphur Mountain, this historic site offers a rejuvenating soak in 100% natural mineral-rich thermal waters, sourced from deep within the earth. The water is geothermally heated and flows continuously, making it a truly authentic hot springs experience.

Parking can be busy, especially during peak hours and weekends, but it's generally manageable with a bit of patience. From the lot, there’s a short uphill walk to the entrance—nothing too strenuous, but worth noting if you’re bringing kids or carrying gear.

The pool is outdoors, open year-round, and one of the most magical times to visit is during snowfall. Soaking in the steaming hot water while snowflakes drift around you is an unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the charm of winter in Banff.

Towels and bathing suits are available for rent if you didn’t bring your own. Lockers are provided at no extra cost, and you’ll receive a coin for access when you pay your admission. Cold showers are available nearby to help you cool down between soaks. Warm showers with soap dispenser inside when your done.

Lifeguards are present and actively monitor the pool, often reminding guests to take breaks and sit along the edges every 10 minutes to prevent overheating. The mineral-rich water can be quite hot, and it’s easy to underestimate its effects.

Stay well-hydrated before and after your soak. Eat a good-sized meal well in advance—soaking on an empty stomach or right after eating can lead to dizziness or fatigue. Listen to your body: if you start feeling lightheaded or overly tired, take a break and cool off.

Whether you're winding down after a day of hiking or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Banff Upper Hot Springs offers a unique blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and...

This place is always busy, but that's expected with the amazing warm water and the views! Breath taking. We didn't have to wait very long in line, it gets bussier after 6 pm. You can rent towels and swim suits if you are passing through and want to stop but didn't come prepared. Staff is super nice, easy access, lockers are clean. Pool area is very well taken care off. However some people are not so aware that bandaids don't stay on in the water and fall off. We had pulled a couple of them out. *fyi bandaids are not good for filters either so just remember to take them off before going into water or use spray on bandaids or use waterproof ones that won't come off. Another issue I noticed as that we had all the grown ups taking up the small shallow area where kids belong. It's not okay, parents with kids were stuck holding the little ones up as we had adults stretched out laying in there. Come on, if this was the other way around and there was an adult designated area that kids took up, you damn well know the adults would have an issue with it and would make the kids leave. Just be more aware of where you are and those around you. There is a whole big pool where you as an adult can stand, so maybe don't take a nap in the shallow end. There's a reason it's designed that shallow. Also if you forget your water bottle at the pool please be kind and go grab it. Don't expect the staff to walk it out to you. They have a job to do. It's to watch people in the poool. They aren't paid to watch your personal belongings or take them out you -_-. I absolutely salute the staff there. You are amazing. You deal with a...

Disappointed and Frustrated — Not Worth the Hype

I rarely leave negative reviews, but this experience was frustrating from start to finish. I expected a relaxing and memorable time, but instead left feeling disappointed and underwhelmed. Locker room disaster. Nearly half the men’s lockers were broken or unusable. I wasted a token on a locker that wouldn’t even close, then had to go all the way back to the front desk to get another one, only to hunt around again for a working locker. Clearly, maintenance is not a priority here. Overcrowded and underwhelming. The pool was packed wall-to-wall with people. We could barely find a space to stand, let alone enjoy it. We actually had to ask someone to move just so we could squeeze in. Nothing “natural” about it. If you’re expecting a serene hot spring experience, forget it. This is just a generic chlorinated pool with warm water. We had a more relaxing soak at our hotel’s outdoor pool — and with far fewer people. Added fees everywhere. Want a towel? That’ll cost you extra. It felt like we were being nickel-and-dimed at every turn for things that should be standard. Staff were rude and dismissive. From the cashier to the front desk, every interaction felt rushed and unpleasant. No warmth, no hospitality — just curt responses like they were annoyed we were even there.

Honestly, this place is a stain on Banff’s otherwise incredible reputation. I’d be embarrassed if this was a visitor’s first taste of what Canada has to offer. Spend your time and...