Banff Upper Hot SpringsvsCave and Basin National Historic Site
Banff Upper Hot Springs and Cave and Basin National Historic Site are both rated highly by expert reviewers. On balance, Cave and Basin National Historic Site is the choice of most reviewers compared to Banff Upper Hot Springs. Cave and Basin National Historic Site ranks #1 in Banff with praise from 3 publications including Fodor's, Michelin Guide and Lonely Planet.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
1 Mountain Ave, Banff, Banff National Park, Alberta T0L 0C0, Canada
From $0/night
Michelin Guide
1 Star
"Discovered a year after the Cave and Basin hot springs, the mineral waters (average temperature 38°C/100°F) now feed a large public pool perched on the mountainside and offering a good view of Bow Valley." Full review
Lonely Planet
"There aren’t many places in the world where you can take a hot bath with a mountain view as spectacular as this." Full review
Fodor's
"Discovered in 1884, Banff's natural hot mineral springs were the impetus for the development of Canada's first national park." Full review
U.S. News & World Report
9.0
"These springs, which were first discovered by Canada's First Nations people prior to the 1880s, were regarded as sacred waters that could cure illness and maintain health." Full review
Frommer's
"The outdoor pool here is large, hygienic, warm (usually 90°F/32°C), and pleasant. It can also be very crowded. Come when it's chilly outside; it's particularly lovely on a winter's evening." Full review
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Cave Ave., west of downtown Banff, Banff, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
From $0/night
Michelin Guide
2 Stars
"The arched stone edifice is home to an open-air pool and a natural basin, both of which are fed by hot springs (average temperatures 30-35°C/86-95°F - no swimming)." Full review
Lonely Planet
"The original cave and the old outdoor springs and bathhouse (closed in 1971) can be viewed, alongside a lovingly curated cinematic exhibition of Parks Canada's cache of 44 national parks." Full review
Fodor's
"This site commemorates the birthplace of Canada's national parks system, which began with the protection of the Banff hot springs in 1885." Full review
U.S. News & World Report
10.0
"This is a popular attraction among nature lovers and history buffs alike...the natural hot springs have lured travelers in search of solace for years. " Full review
Atlas Obscura
"The natural hot spring that was integral to the creation of Canada's first national park. " Full review