Canadian Rockies Hot Springs "Sacred Waters of the Mountains"

Parks Canada Radium Hot Springs

For Canada's First Nations, there were sacred waters — a place to cure illness and maintain health. Today, the Canadian Rockies Hot Springs invite you to rediscover the ability of these hot mineral springs to relax tired muscles and soothe troubled spirits. In Banff National Park, the newly renovated Upper Hot Springs captures the atmosphere of the original 1930s bathhouse, while offering all the conveniences of a modern spa.

Canada's largest hot springs pool, refurbished 25m cool pool, new jacuzzi and a spectacular setting at the base of a sheer rock wall await at Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park. At almost 54° C, Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park lays claim to the hottest water in the Canadian Rockies.

The hot water in Miette's two pools is cooled to a comfortable 39° C. The water has an average temperature of 100 degrees F and a maximum of 116 degrees F. Because of this high temperature and the dissolved organic properties in the water, the sulphur water is used for therapeutic treatments.

For centuries, people have come to these hot, mineral rich waters looking for relief from pain, anxiety and disease. Long before the arrival of European settlers, Canada's First Nations enjoyed the therapeutic benefits of these "sacred waters." With the completion of the railway in the late 19th century, visitors began to arrive from around the world in search of treatment for everything from gout to diabetes. Testimonies to the relief of these ailments were common.

Today's visitors to the Canadian Hot Springs don't expect miracle cures. Nevertheless, the therapeutic benefits of a soak in the hot springs in undeniable. The hot mineral water relieves tension and promotes health by stimulating circulation, relaxing muscles, and detoxifying and re-mineralizing the body. It many not cure diabetes, but it is relaxing and it is fun.

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