Canadian Rockies Hot Springs Alternative Service Delivery FAQs
Q. What is Parks Canada doing with the operation of the hot springs?
A. Parks Canada has announced that it will invite private sector proposals to take over the operation on the Canadian Rockies Hot Springs.
Q. What facilities are affected by this decision?
A. The Canadian Rockies Hot Springs include the Banff Upper Hot Springs (Banff National Park), Radium Hot Springs (Kootenay National Park) and Miette Hot Springs (Jasper National Park).
Q. Why is Parks Canada making this change?
A. The private sector is better positioned to operate these major commercial facilities and has the necessary flexibility to respond to the demands of the tourism market. These changes will allow Parks Canada to focus on delivering its core mandate to protect and present Canada’s treasured protected places.
Q. When will this change occur?
A. Following the competitive selection process and lease negotiations, a hand-over of operations is expected to be completed as early as May 2013.
Q. Will I still be able to visit the hot springs?
A. Yes. Parks Canada will continue to operate the hot springs as usual until they transition to private sector operation. In addition, Parks Canada will ensure these facilities are maintained for public use and enjoyment in the future.
Q. Who will operate the hot springs?
A. The successful operator will be determined following a request for proposals and competitive tendering process.
Q. Will entry fees change?
A. The business operator will be responsible for setting user fees. Parks Canada is confident that any private sector operator will continue to offer fees that are competitive and comparable to other visitor attractions.
Q. Will the heritage nature of the buildings be protected?
A. Yes. We are only moving to private sector operation of the hot springs. Parks Canada will ensure lease provisions include requirements to protect the heritage values of the facilities and to present these values to the public.
Q. As a business operator, how can I get more information on submitting a proposal?
A. In the coming months, Parks Canada will initiate a request for proposals and competitive tendering process. For information regarding the request for proposals, businesses are invited to contact Caroline Marion at 403-522-1205 or by email at caroline.marion@pc.gc.ca.
Uniquely Kootenay
11th Annual Radium Hot Springs Glass Art Show and Sale
June 23 – October 31, 2012
Come enjoy this sparkling exhibition of art glass panels reflecting on the beauty of Kootenay National Park.
Radium Hot Springs Pool lobby
(No admission charged)
For more information click here or call 250-347-9485
Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay
April 13, 2012, Jonah Riotsch with his proud mom Lori Horrocks in the Radium Hot Springs Pool. Photo by Rick hansen Foundation
Lori Hollocks, Public Outreach and Education Officer for Kootenay National Park, was one of 7,000 medal bearers taking part in 10 month cross-country relay to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Rick Hansen's legendary "Man in Motion World Tour." Lori carried the medal for her son Jonah who deals daily with the challenges of cerebral palsy and autism. She says Jonah just loves the hot springs and their family really appreciate how easily accesible the pools are.
It was fitting thay Kootenay was included in this anniversary tour since Rick visited Radium Hot Springs pools on hs original relay in 1987.
For more information and photos - Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay
100 % natural mineral water is flowing at the Radium Hot Springs!
