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Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Banff

3.9
#2 of 6 in Historic Sites in Banff National Park
Historic Site · Tourist Spot
The discovery of the thermal mineral springs of Cave and Basin National Historic Site in 1883 was a catalyst for establishing Canada's first national park. Today, you can no longer swim in the hot springs, but you can visit the historic site and view displays about the history of Canada's national parks. Admire the cave surrounded by scenic hiking trails and boasting indoor and outdoor natural pools filled with striking azure waters. Make Cave and Basin National Historic Site a centerpiece of your Banff National Park vacation itinerary, and find what else is worth visiting using our Banff National Park trip planner.
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Tours to Cave and Basin National Historic Site

FROM $89 BOOK WITH VIATOR Covered Wagon or Horseback Ride in Banff with Western Cookout
4.0
Duration: 3 hours
Tours from $89 »
FROM $109 BOOK WITH VIATOR 2 Hour Banff Horseback Riding Adventure
4.0
Duration: 2 hours
Tours from $109 »
FROM $201 BOOK WITH VIATOR Banff Cave and Basin Exploring Game
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Tours from $201 »

Cave and Basin National Historic Site reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
1,544 reviews
Google
4.2
TripAdvisor
  • By ScubaNut099
    This attraction is essentially split between the facilities themselves and the hiking trails around the area. Very interesting information is displayed regarding the history of the Cave & Basin. The....  more »
  • By jimgF4034KP
    This is a very interesting place to visit. Lots of information and some of the hot pools on display. Good hiking trails along the river and elsewhere nearby.  more »
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Google
  • By Lauren Wong
    Free with a Parks Canada pass which is nice! It's small but we had a lot of fun there. I thought it was educational but also had things to do like go into the cave (super cool), the photobooth & the winter carnival! We spent most of our time playing curling, box hockey, sitting around the fire and doing the bean bag toss. We spent more time at the museum than expected since the games were fun!
  • By robyn l
    Fun little place and not at all expensive to visit! Definitely check out the boardwalk trail behind the centre. The short and easy trail weaves its way up Sulpher Mountain following the thermal spring and offers a great view of the site. That said, if you are travelling on a budget or short on time, this is an easy spot to skip.
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