History & Culture
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Canmore, Alberta
Birthplace of Canada's national park systemOriginal thermal sulphur caveBubbling hot spring poolsRich Indigenous and colonial historyUnique endemic Banff longnose dace habitatHeritage walking trails
About Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Cave and Basin National Historic Site marks the spot where the discovery of hot springs in 1883 sparked the creation of Banff National Park and ultimately Canada's entire national parks system. Visitors can explore the original cave with its bubbling thermal waters, walk heritage trails, and view interpretive exhibits detailing this pivotal moment in Canadian history.
Things to Do
Historical exhibit viewing
Heritage trail walking
Photography
Guided tours
Interpretive programming
Boardwalk strolling
