It’s finally starting to look like Christmas in Calgary. Kind of. The snow dusting the streets in the morning disappear by the afternoon. However, a wintery chill lingers in the air, hinting at the cold to come. While this may encourage you to bundle up indoors, a great way to embrace this weather is by visiting a natural
outdoor hot spring in the mountains surrounding our city.
A trip to the mountains inevitably stirs a sense of adventure and purpose. However, the stone giants can also offer peace and rejuvenation. There isn’t a lot I can think of that is more rejuvenating than a warm bath in mineral rich water encompassed by viscerally beautiful views.
Restful Remedy
Not only does it sitting in a hot spring feel good, the water offers genuine health benefits to our bodies. Hot springs is a specific location where geothermally-warmed groundwater surfaces and pools. To be classified as a hot spring, the temperature of the water must be considerably higher than the surrounding air temperature – this is usually around
100 degrees Fahrenheit. This promises that the water will blanket you with warmth against the brisk mountain air.
At the same time, the warmth will help relax your muscles, alleviating any tension in your body that may be pestering you. Living in a highly sedentary cultural environment, many of us struggle with lower
back pain in particular. Time spent in a hot spring can remedy such pain. Hopefully that means a comfortable return to work after your hot spring getaway. Mineral content and temperature of hot spring water is particularly soothing for individuals with joint pain and arthritis. However, whether you have joint issues or not, your body will savor the soothing experience.
Marvelous Minerals
The high
mineral content of hot spring waters offers a subtle but potent way to refresh yourself. The type of minerals in a hot spring vary by location. They can contain calcium, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium, lithium and radium. Essentially, they are a healing potion for your skin. Especially if you suffer from eczema – extremely dry, scaly skin. Hot spring water can subdue redness, irritation and even itchiness.
Your body benefits internally from the mineral content as well. While there still needs to be more research conducted on this, hot springs seemingly improve blood circulation. The absorption of
calcium and
sodium bicarbonate into your skin coupled with the gentle pressure of the water against your body boosts oxygen flow.
Precautions
As with anything, certain precautions must be taken before visiting a hot spring. Avoid dunking your head into nonchemically treated hot springs. This is because these springs are home to different types of bacteria that could be potentially bothersome, and even dangerous. It is wise to consult a physician if you are unsure about the safety of your visit to a hot spring.
Hot Springs Near Calgary
The closest hot spring to Calgary is located in Banff, Alberta – a dazzlingly beautiful hour and half drive away. The Springs are located on the periphery of downtown Banff and offer soul-stirring views of the Rocky Mountains. If you forget your swim suit, they offer hilarious rentals that could make for some wickedly fun photos and create long-lasting stories. On top of that, this pool is a a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which in itself makes the visit a memorable experience.
Click here for more information regarding location, water mineral content, hours, and costs. Keep in mind that when visiting Banff, you are required to pay for a
$20 day pass if you do not have a park pass already.
Click here for more information regarding park passes.
Nestled into Kootenay National park in Radium, B.C. is Canada’s largest hot springs pool. The strikingly clear and scentless water make the experience feel soothingly otherworldly. The drive to Radium from Calgary is around three hours. However, the lush scenery will help make it feel like 30 minutes. Radium’s quirky but homey vibe would definitely add to the pleasure of your visit.
Click here for more information about the Radium Hot Springs.
It has been about eight years since I visited the Fairmont Hot Springs. However, the memory is vivid and I can feel my body relax just thinking about it. The Fairmont Hot springs boasts a vast and rich view of B.C.’s tree-laden mountains. The coziness of the hot springs and family-friendly atmosphere creates a comfortable casualness that will make you feel at home. As this location is just over three hours away from Calgary, it may be worth it to spend the night. However, a day trip is entirely doable if your days off are limited.
Click here for more information.
