Banff’s Cave and Basin Tour
Delve into the heart of Canada’s first national park with a visit to Banff’s Cave and Basin, a site rich in history, natural beauty, and geological intrigue. This tour takes you through the birthplace of the national park system, where natural thermal springs bubble up from deep within the Earth, creating a serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Discover the fascinating history of this landmark, from its early use by Indigenous peoples to its pivotal role in the establishment of Banff National Park. The Cave and Basin’s unique underground cave system, complete with mineral-rich waters and shimmering pools, provides a stunning glimpse into the natural forces that shaped the Canadian Rockies.
Outside the cave, explore the surrounding trails and boardwalks, where lush vegetation and mountain views come together to create a peaceful retreat in the midst of nature. Learn about the diverse wildlife that calls the area home, and uncover the cultural significance that has made this location a symbol of Canadian heritage.
This tour provides not just a visual feast of Banff’s natural wonders, but also an enriching story of conservation, history, and natural beauty that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
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Tour Map
Starting Point
You can begin the tour at the suggested starting location provided below:
311 Cave Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1K2, Canada
Begin from 311 Cave Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1K2, Canada.
How Does It Work?
- Access your tour: Download the Action Tour Guide app and sign in with the same email used for your website purchase. Your tour will appear under My Tours.
- Download your tour: Download it before you go. Once downloaded, no internet or cell signal is needed.
- Start your tour: Open My Tours, select your tour, and tap Start Touring when you reach a starting point.
- Listen your way: Use your phone’s speaker or headphones, or connect to your car’s audio system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not currently supported, compatibility is in development.
- GPS-triggered audio: Stories play automatically as you reach each location along the route.
- Stop and start anytime: Pause, take a break, make a detour, or continue another day. Tours are valid forever (one year for Action+).
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
This self-guided walking tour takes you through the historic Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where you’ll discover the natural hot springs that led to the creation of Canada’s first national park. Along the route, you’ll explore the cave, thermal waters, scenic boardwalks, and learn about the area’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Source: Parks Canada
The walking tour takes about 1 hour to complete and covers approximately 3 miles (4.8 km). You can pause whenever you’d like to spend more time exploring exhibits or enjoying the surrounding trails.
The tour begins at 311 Cave Avenue, Banff, Alberta, near the entrance to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site. Once you arrive at the starting point, the GPS-guided narration begins automatically.
No. Your purchase includes the self-guided audio tour only. Admission to the Cave & Basin National Historic Site must be purchased separately if required.
Simply download the Action Tour Guide app before you arrive, open the tour at the starting point, and use headphones for the best walking experience. The GPS-triggered narration plays automatically as you reach each stop.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Action Tour Guide app: Download the app to access your purchased tour.GPS-triggered audio: Stories and directions play automatically as you reach each location.Tour anytime: Single tours and bundles never expire and can be used anytime. Action+ is an annual subscription that automatically renews each year unless canceled.Narrated stories: Hear local history, culture, and stories from experienced narrators.Stop and start anytime: Pause, take a break, make a detour, or continue another day.Offline access: Download your tour before you go. Once downloaded, no internet or cell signal is needed.Stories, stops, and directions: Follow the route to key attractions with automatic directions and stories at each location.Transportation: Transportation, parking fees, and tolls are not included.Admission: Entry tickets and reservations are not included. Food and drinks: Meals and drinks are not included.Rental car: A rental car is not included and may be required for driving tours. 
