Categories: Travel

This underground cave in Banff is where Canada’s national park system began

Image via Shutterstock Pawel Serafin

The stunning park of Banff is a famous destination all on its own. But did you know it was also the first of its kind? Nestled in the stunning Rockies, this postcard-perfect place is the bedrock of Canada’s National Park system, and it all started at the Cave and Basin.

The Cave and Basin site in Banff is a place to gather and connect over conservation and nature. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, short films, seasonal activities, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

But how was this wonderful place discovered, and what can you expect when you visit?

Image via Shutterstock Timothy Yue

How were the springs discovered?

On the slopes of Sulphur Mountain in 1883, three intrepid explorers came across a mist-filled cave. Unbeknownst to the three lucky railway workers, the thermal springs they ‘discovered’ were known to the local Indigenous Peoples for over 10 thousand years.

“Considering the archaeological evidence of human habitation in the Bow Valley that dates back 10,000 years, and First Nations stories about the cave and warm waters we know that these Canadian Pacific Railway workers were not the first to discover these springs,” it says on the Parks Canada website.

“But, recognizing the potential profit flowing in these mineral waters, the railway workers erected a fence around their ‘discovery’ and built a log cabin near the entrance to the cave.”

This eventually led to the creation of the first national park in Canada. Since then, people have come from all over the world to see the Cave and Basin underground thermal springs and admire its incredible blue water.

What to expect when you visit

While this beautiful place might tempt you, you should know that swimming in the cave is no longer permitted. This is to protect the Banff Springs snail, which is only found in this one single place on earth.

Instead, visitors are encouraged to visit the interpretive exhibits, hike, bike or snowshoe the Sundance Trail nearby. Don’t worry, it’s still an amazing experience, especially in the warmer months.

Seasonal schedule

The Cave and Basin National Historic Site operates on a seasonal schedule with select day closures throughout the year. Here is the general schedule, but make sure to check ahead before you visit.