Town of Banff

Cave & Basin National Historic Site of Canada

Tourists flocked to Banff in the early 19th century to restore themselves in the natural hot springs waters at the Cave and Basin site Photo: Amar Athwal, Parks Canada

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site of Canada, located at the west end of Cave Avenue, commemorates the birthplace of Canada's National Park system, which began here in 1885.

The growth and development of Canada's national parks are celebrated in interactive displays and exhibits. Naturally-occurring, warm mineral springs can be found inside the cave, and outside in an emerald coloured basin.

There is a modest entrance fee, and the site features:

• the cave, including its interior pool and the original vent hole
• the basin, the open air mineral pool: notice the mats of algae growing in the pool... look closely for the rare and endangered Banff springs snails and their habitat (but please don't disturb)
• interactive exhibits
• interpretive walks and boardwalks in the woods and marshes nearby
  
• interpretive panels describing the World War 1 internment camp
• gift shop and snack bar
  

Winter Hours (October - mid-May):
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday - Friday
9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with a weekend guided tour 11 a.m.

Closed December 25th

Temporary Closure in 2010/2011

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site of Canada will undergo a major revitalization over the next 2 years to improve visitor experience and better protect the cultural and natural resources.

As such, Parks Canada will close the Bathing Pavilion at the Cave and Basin from April 2010 to November 2011. This means that the main building will be closed to the public and that there will be NO visitor access to the cave, basin, theatre or rest room facilities.

Access to the boardwalks and Sundance Day Use Area and trail system will be maintained. The small rest room building on the Marsh Boardwalk will remain open.


See the Parks Canada Web site for details about this attraction, and related special events.