We often get asked where to find the best Alberta hot springs, and sadly, our answer is that there aren’t as many glorious natural hot springs in Alberta as many may think. Still, there are some fantastic places to sit, soak, relax, and take in the views in Alberta. From Banff to Jasper, here are the best Alberta hot springs.
Best Alberta Hot Springs
Banff Upper Hot Springs
The thermal mineral springs at Banff Upper Hot Springs are run by Parks Canada and are the highest in the country at 1,585 meters above sea level. The water that flows at these springs is 100% natural, as are the incredible views of nearby Mount Rundle and the Spray River Valley.
Heading here on a cold day is one of the best things in Banff, particularly in winter. The main draw at this site is the opportunity to soak in these rejuvenating springs, but you also have access to a historic bathhouse, a lovely picnic area, a gift shop, and a cafe.
- Location: 1 Mountain Avenue, Banff.
- Tip: Entry to the springs is first come, first served. Reservations are not taken.
- Price: $17.50 per adult.
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Kananaskis Nordic Spa
The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is where you can escape the rat race and indulge in relaxing hydrotherapy surrounded by spectacular mountainous scenery. It’s in the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, one of the best places to stay in all of Kananaskis. There are both hot and cold pools on-site, and you can also enjoy access to massage services, a sauna, and an exfoliation cabin. Your hydrotherapy pass allows you access to all these facilities.
- Location: 1 Centennial Drive, Turner Valley.
- Tip: Head to the Two Trees Bistro, where you’ll find a selection of craft beers, herbal teas, wines, caffeinated drinks, and small plates.
- Price: Prices start at $109 for a day pass.
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Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Not all hot springs allow swimming or soaking; some are nice places to admire and explore, like the ones at Cave and Basin National Historic Site. The historic springs at this site are very important to the region’s indigenous people and you can learn all about them and their historic and cultural importance at the on-site little museum.
There are nine sulfurous springs about two miles underground, with waters heated by geothermal activity. You’ll need to walk through a small tunnel to access the hot springs cavern. A cafe and gift shop are also on-site. Heading here is one of the best things to do in Banff on a rainy day.
- Location: 311 Cave Avenue, Banff.
- Tip: Take a hike along the interpretive boardwalk leading to the cave vent, or hike along the Marsh Loop and learn about the plants and wildlife of the area.
- Price: $9.00 per adult (also included in the Discovery Pass)
Hidden Ridge Resort
It’s not exactly a hot spring, but it’s a nice hotel to stay at if you’re traveling with kids. At Hidden Ridge Resort, you’ll find an outdoor hot pool and a wading pool open to guests all year round from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM every day. It’s great for families, as kids love the pool after a long day in the mountains.
- Location: 901 Hidden Ridge Way, Banff.
- Tip: Make sure to enjoy the other fantastic amenities that are available, including a sauna, BBQ facilities, and bicycle rentals.
- Price: The average price to stay at this resort is $503 in the summer
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Mist Mountain Hot Springs
If you prefer to enjoy some natural, undeveloped hot springs without the large crowds and commercialism, head to Mist Mountain Hot Springs in Kananaskis and enjoy one of the best hikes in Kananaskis. You’ll need to be up for some adventure to get to these beautiful springs, as it requires a 6km return hike that’ll see you crossing a stream and climbing a bank to reach them.
The hike is worth it when you can finally soak in those little pools while enjoying panoramic mountain views. However, be forewarned that this is no secret spot anymore, and the hot springs draw a crowd in the summer. There’s only enough space for 2-3 people in the pools, so if you want a more crowd-free experience, it’s best to get here at sunrise or sunset.
- Location: Get on Highway 40 in Kananaskis until you find the trailhead on the east side of the road, about nine miles from Highwood Pass.
- Tip: This site has no facilities such as changing rooms, so wear your swimsuit under your clothes.
- Price: Free
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The Malcolm Hotel
The Malcolm Hotel is home to one of Canmore’s biggest outdoor hot pools. It’s not exactly a spring, but if you want an exclusive rooftop heated outdoor pool, book a stay here. After a long day of exploring the area, hiking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or whatever adventure you embarked on, retreat to the warm waters and recuperate for the next day’s adventures. Enjoy the amazing views of the Three Sisters, too!
- Location: 140 Kananaskis Way, Canmore.
- Tip: Check out the other amenities on-site, including a large hot tub and BBQ facilities.
- Price: The average cost to stay one night is $405.
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Miette Hot Springs
Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park is another popular hot spring location in Alberta. The outdoor pools here have mountain spring water that’s 104°F, which makes them the hottest hot springs in The Rockies. These healing waters are also naturally infused with minerals, including sulfate, calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, and sodium. On-site, you’ll also find change rooms, a gift shop, and a cafe.
- Location: Miette Road, Jasper.
- Tip: Take a hike along the Source of the Springs Trail and learn how these springs are formed. If you’re feeling more adventurous, embark on a 5-mile hike on the Sulphur Skyline Trail and enjoy spectacular views.
- Entry to Miette Hot Springs is first come, first served. Reservations are not taken.
- Price: $16.50 per adult.
Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs
The thermal waters in the pools at the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs are no longer channeled from Banff Upper Hot Springs, but these mineral waters are still relaxing and rejuvenating! This world-class spa features a Kur pool with a domed ceiling, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an underwater sound system. There are also several plunge pools with waterfalls.
- Location: 405 Spray Avenue, Banff.
- Tip: Enjoy the other fantastic amenities that are on site, including a world-class golf course and several Banff restaurants.
- Price: The average cost to stay one night is $550+
Canmore Natural Springs
While visitors to Alberta are usually familiar with the man-made hot springs and spas, natural springs tend to be a little more off-the-beaten-path, but they offer something that the commercial pools don’t: pure, natural surroundings and thermal pools that were created by mother nature and remain in their natural state. You can’t swim at the Canmore Natural Springs, but you can drink from a natural spring.
- Location: 2500 Palliser Trail, Canmore.
- Tip: While many people drink the water from these springs because they claim it tastes better and has health benefits, authorities have warned them that the water is likely unsafe to drink.
- Price: Free
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Manitou Springs
Although Manitou Springs is not situated in Alberta, it’s close enough to the Alberta-Saskatchewan border to mention. It’s also amazing enough to be on Alberta’s list of must-see hot springs. There’s so much salt and other minerals in the water that this place has earned itself the nickname of the Dead Sea of Canada.
Magnesium, carbonate, sulfate, sulfur, and silica are just some of the minerals you can find in this lake fed by an underground spring. If floating in the lake is not your thing, you can head into the spa at the Manitou Springs Hotel, where you’ll enjoy access to a mineral pool and various spa services.
- Location: 302 MacLachlan Avenue, Manitou Beach.
- Tip: Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at the Water’s Edge Restaurant.
- Price: $16 per adult. Free for guests staying overnight in the hotel.
More Hot Springs Near Alberta
As you can see, there are not many hot springs around Alberta. The good news is you don’t have to venture far to find some amazing hot springs. Some of the best hot springs near Alberta are:
- Radium Hot Springs in Radium
- Lussier Hot Springs in Cranbrook
- Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Near Invermere
The BEST Hot Springs in BC
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