Your Guide to Hot Springs in Canada
- Georgia Ristivojevic
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Did you know Canada boasts some of the world's very best hot pools and springs that are very accessible and affordable? Envision yourself soaking in mineral rich hot pools with warm water of up to 40 degrees celsius overlooking impressive vistas and valleys.
See why visiting a hot spring is a must-add to your Canadian itinerary with this guide to Hot Springs in Canada!
Hot Springs in Canada - Banff National Park
There are plenty of attractions to see in Banff, but one of the most affordable and memorable things to do is to visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Recently having undergone extensive renovations, the Banff Upper Hot Springs has been in operation since the late 19th century. First enjoyed by the local indigenous people; local railway workers and European travellers also discovered the natural spring, expanding to the bathhouse known today.
Soak in naturally sourced thermal baths that maintain a temperature of approximately 38 degrees celsius and take in the breathtaking views of Banff National Park for a measly C$19.75 for adults. Admission price is for the day, so visitors can enjoy the pool from 10am to 10pm if they really wanted to. This is one of the most affordable attractions in Banff and perhaps one of the cheapest spa days in the world!
Visit the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for a one-of-a-kind spa experience at the newly opened BASIN Glacial Waters.
This luxurious thermal bath experience treats spa-goers to the iconic views of Lake Louise as they soak in glacial waters. There are multiple pools at varying temperatures with different mineral properties, plus saunas and steam rooms designed to detoxify and rejuvenate the body.
The experience costs C$275 per guest for three hours access, allowing for plenty of time to enjoy the different 'soak experiences' on offer.
Where To Stay
Banff offers plenty of accommodation options, but if you want to stay nice and close to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, consider the Rimrock Banff, an iconic hotel that has just undergone a multi-million dollar redevelopment. Rates start from C$385 per night.
Guests at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise can enjoy front-row access to BASIN Glacial Waters plus a once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience. Rates start from C$605 per night.
How To Get There
Getting to the Banff Upper Hot Springs is easy. The bathhouse is only a short 10-minute drive from downtown Banff and is accessible by taxi and bus too! From Calgary, the hot springs are approximately a 1.5 hour drive.
Hot Springs in Canada - Jasper National Park
Secluded in a rugged valley of Jasper National Park is the Miette Hot Springs. Similarly to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, the Miette Hot Springs have been enjoyed by the local indigenous people and park visitors alike since the 19th century.
These hot springs boast the warmest temperature of all the hot springs in this list, with the pool maintaining an average temperature of 40 degrees celsius at all times. As this hot spring is located in a much more secluded area, it's common for visitors to pair a visit to the hot springs with a hike along the Sulphur Skyline, known for its steep elevation and wildlife spotting.
Enjoy the seclusion and stunning views of this hidden gem for only C$19.75 per adult. It's well worth the visit!
Where To Stay
As this bathhouse is located in a remote area of Jasper National Park, a great option to stay that is closeby is the Miette Mountain Cabins. These cosy cabins offer all the amenities of a hotel whilst allowing visitors to fully soak in the ruggedness of the area. Visit the hot springs and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime hiking at this hideaway hotel. Rates start at C$153.
How To Get There
The Miette Hot Springs are accessible by car, approximately 1 hour or 62km from the town of Jasper. There are no public transport or taxi options to this location. From Edmonton, the hot springs are approximately 3.5 hours away.
Hot Springs in Canada - Kootenay National Park
For those road-tripping through beautiful British Columbia, Radium Hot Springs (both the town and hot spring) should be on your list!
Another naturally sourced mineral spring, the Radium Hot Springs have been in operation since the early 20th century and attracts visitors from all around the world. The hot springs are located inside the striking Sinclar Canyon and, in addition to the hot pools, offer a Olympic-sized swimming pool to get some laps in.
Admission is C$19.75 for adults with all-day entry.
Where To Stay
A visit to Radium Hot Springs might make you think you're in a Swiss mountain village, as many of the hotels and buildings were modelled off this. Try The Gateway motel for that Swiss-mountain feel and close proximity to the hot springs. Rates start at C$86 per night.
How To Get There
The Radium Hot Springs are located a short 5-minute drive from town. The closest city is Calgary and is approximately a 3-hour drive away. Driving from Vancouver is also possible, with the hot springs an 8.5 hour drive away.
These are three hot springs no-to-miss on your next trip to Canada. For more travel planning in the Canadian Rockies and beyond, visit thedeparturedesk.com. Follow us on social media for more travel planning, tips and itineraries.
