Are you a fan of hot springs? If so, you̵7;re in luck! This article will provide you with a captivating introduction to the peak seasons of various hot springs in the United States. Discover the perfect time to visit these natural wonders and immerse yourself in their soothing waters. From the geothermal marvels of Yellowstone National Park to the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, each hot spring has its own unique ambiance that is best enjoyed during specific times of the year. So pack your towel and get ready to embark on a rejuvenating adventure!
1. Alaska
Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is known for its stunning natural beauty and vast wilderness. One of the highlights of visiting Alaska is experiencing the therapeutic hot springs that dot the landscape. Among the top hot springs in Alaska are Chena Hot Springs, Manley Hot Springs, and Tolovana Hot Springs.
1.1 Chena Hot Springs
Located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs offers a serene and rejuvenating experience. Nestled amidst the beautiful Chena River State Recreation Area, these hot springs are a great place to unwind and relax after a long day exploring the Alaskan wilderness. The mineral-rich geothermal water, with temperatures ranging from 106 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit, is believed to have healing properties that can help soothe aching muscles and promote overall well-being.
1.2 Manley Hot Springs
Situated in the picturesque Tanana Valley, Manley Hot Springs is a hidden gem that offers an authentic Alaskan hot springs experience. With its natural hot spring pools and remote location, a visit to Manley Hot Springs allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. The hot springs are known for their high mineral content and soothing waters, making them a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the surrounding wilderness.
1.3 Tolovana Hot Springs
Tolovana Hot Springs is another must-visit destination for hot springs enthusiasts in Alaska. Located about 60 miles northwest of Fairbanks, these remote hot springs can be reached by a scenic flight or a challenging hike. Once you arrive, you will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by the beautiful Alaska Range, Tolovana Hot Springs offers pristine pools of mineral-rich water, perfect for soaking and relaxation. The therapeutic properties of the water, combined with the untouched natural beauty of the area, create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
2. California
California, often referred to as the Golden State, is a dream destination for many travelers. In addition to its beautiful beaches and vibrant cities, California is also home to several incredible hot springs. Some of the notable hot springs in California include Calistoga Hot Springs, Deep Creek Hot Springs, and Sierra Hot Springs.
2.1 Calistoga Hot Springs
Set in the charming town of Calistoga in Napa Valley, Calistoga Hot Springs is a popular attraction for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs are known for their naturally heated mineral waters and mud baths, which are said to have numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a mineral pool or indulge in a therapeutic spa treatment, Calistoga Hot Springs offers a serene oasis surrounded by picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.
2.2 Deep Creek Hot Springs
Located in the rugged and scenic Deep Creek Canyon, Deep Creek Hot Springs is a hidden paradise in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Accessible via a moderate hike, these natural hot springs are nestled along the banks of the Mojave River. The hot springs consist of several pools of varying temperatures, ranging from warm to hot, creating a truly relaxing experience. Surrounded by beautiful desert landscapes and towering cliffs, a soak in the Deep Creek Hot Springs is a unique and unforgettable adventure.
2.3 Sierra Hot Springs
Nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sierra Hot Springs provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This rustic retreat offers a variety of hot spring pools, including a large swimming pool and smaller private pools. The mineral-rich waters are known for their healing properties and can help alleviate stress, soothe sore muscles, and promote relaxation. The serene natural surroundings, with towering trees and lush greenery, add to the overall calming ambiance of Sierra Hot Springs.
3. Colorado
Colorado is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. As a bonus, the state is also home to several exceptional hot springs. Among the top hot springs destinations in Colorado are Glenwood Hot Springs, Strawberry Park Hot Springs, and Ouray Hot Springs.
3.1 Glenwood Hot Springs
Glenwood Hot Springs, located in the charming town of Glenwood Springs, is one of the largest hot springs pools in the world. The main attraction is the enormous mineral pool, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. The water, heated naturally by underground geothermal sources, is filled with beneficial minerals, providing a soothing and therapeutic experience. Whether you visit in the winter to soak in the warm waters amidst a snowy landscape or during the summer to cool off and enjoy the surroundings, Glenwood Hot Springs is a must-visit destination in Colorado.
3.2 Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Tucked away in the picturesque Yampa Valley near Steamboat Springs, Strawberry Park Hot Springs offers a tranquil retreat in a beautiful natural setting. Surrounded by forested hills, these hot springs are famous for their thermal pools, which range in temperature from 101 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The steam rising from the pools creates a magical ambiance, especially during colder months. A visit to Strawberry Park Hot Springs allows you to unwind in the warm waters while gazing at the starry night sky or enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.
3.3 Ouray Hot Springs
Nestled in the charming town of Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray Hot Springs provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs complex features a range of pools, including a large lap pool and smaller soaking pools with varying temperatures. The mineral-rich waters are sourced from multiple springs and are reputed for their healing properties. After a day of hiking or exploring the nearby San Juan Mountains, a soak in the soothing waters of Ouray Hot Springs is the perfect way to unwind.
4. Idaho
Idaho, often referred to as the “Gem State,” boasts a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, and stunning natural hot springs. Some of the popular hot springs destinations in Idaho are Burgdorf Hot Springs, Goldbug Hot Springs, and Jerry Johnson Hot Springs.
4.1 Burgdorf Hot Springs
Located in the beautiful Payette National Forest, Burgdorf Hot Springs offers a rustic and remote hot springs experience. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, these historic hot springs have been welcoming visitors for over 150 years. The natural mineral water, with temperatures ranging from 100 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, flows into several pools that provide a soothing and rejuvenating experience. Whether you choose to soak in the hot springs during the winter months or in the midst of summer, Burgdorf Hot Springs promises a memorable and unforgettable adventure.
4.2 Goldbug Hot Springs
Tucked away in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, Goldbug Hot Springs is a hidden gem that rewards intrepid adventurers with a truly magical experience. Accessible by a moderate hike, the trail takes you through a beautiful forest and across a rugged canyon before reaching the hot springs. Once you arrive, you’ll discover a series of cascading pools, each with its own unique temperature and view. The mineral-rich waters of Goldbug Hot Springs invigorate the senses and offer a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of Idaho.
4.3 Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Hailed as one of the best natural hot springs in Idaho, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Situated in the Clearwater National Forest, these secluded hot springs can be reached via a scenic hiking trail. As you follow the path through a dense forest, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of crystal-clear pools surrounded by towering trees. The thermal waters, varying in temperature, invite you to relax and soak in the therapeutic benefits. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs and let the stress of everyday life melt away.
5. Nevada
Nevada, famous for its dazzling Las Vegas Strip and desert landscapes, is also home to numerous hot springs that offer a unique and rejuvenating experience. Some of the notable hot springs in Nevada include Spencer Hot Springs, Black Rock Hot Springs, and Great Boiling Spring.
5.1 Spencer Hot Springs
Nestled in the high desert of Central Nevada, Spencer Hot Springs is a hidden oasis that rewards travelers with its soothing mineral waters. Comprised of several rock pools, these hot springs offer a variety of temperatures, allowing you to find your perfect relaxation spot. The rustic, untouched surroundings add to the charm of Spencer Hot Springs, making it an ideal place to experience the tranquility of the desert while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.
5.2 Black Rock Hot Springs
Situated in the remote Black Rock Desert, Black Rock Hot Springs offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path hot springs experience. Accessible via a scenic drive and short hike, these natural hot springs provide awe-inspiring views of the expansive desert landscape. The hot spring pools, varying in size and temperature, offer a serene and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. A visit to Black Rock Hot Springs during sunrise or sunset will reward you with a breathtaking display of colors and a moment of pure bliss.
5.3 Great Boiling Spring
As the largest hot spring in Nevada, Great Boiling Spring is a fascinating natural wonder that should not be missed. Located in the remote Black Rock Desert, this geothermal marvel features a continuously bubbling and boiling hot spring, creating a spectacle unlike any other. While swimming is not allowed due to the extremely high temperatures of the water, the sight of the Great Boiling Spring is enough to leave you in awe of the power and beauty of nature.
6. Oregon
Oregon, known for its lush forests, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture, is also home to a variety of hot springs that provide a peaceful respite in the midst of nature. Among the top hot springs destinations in Oregon are Bagby Hot Springs, Umpqua Hot Springs, and Hart Mountain Hot Springs.
6.1 Bagby Hot Springs
Nestled within the scenic Mount Hood National Forest, Bagby Hot Springs offers a tranquil escape from everyday life. Accessible via a picturesque trail, this rustic hot springs complex features wooden tubs filled with mineral-rich water. The tubs, enclosed within private structures, provide a serene and cozy atmosphere, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate while surrounded by towering trees. The idyllic setting of Bagby Hot Springs, combined with the therapeutic properties of the water, makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.
6.2 Umpqua Hot Springs
Located in the heart of the Umpqua National Forest, Umpqua Hot Springs is a hidden gem that promises a rejuvenating and unforgettable experience. The hot springs can be reached via a short and scenic hike, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest. Once you arrive, you’ll discover a collection of cascading pools, each with its own unique temperature. The soothing mineral waters create a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Oregon.
6.3 Hart Mountain Hot Springs
Situated in the remote Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, Hart Mountain Hot Springs offers a tranquil retreat in a breathtaking desert setting. Accessible via a gravel road, these natural hot springs provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The rustic pools, filled with mineral-rich waters, are set against a backdrop of rugged landscapes, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance. A visit to Hart Mountain Hot Springs allows you to connect with nature while experiencing the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.
7. Utah
Utah, known for its stunning national parks and diverse landscapes, is also home to several remarkable hot springs. Among the top hot springs destinations in Utah are Homestead Crater, Mystic Hot Springs, and Fifth Water Hot Springs.
7.1 Homestead Crater
Nestled in the quaint town of Midway, Homestead Crater is a unique hot springs experience that takes place within a geothermal limestone dome. This natural phenomenon was formed over thousands of years and boasts a mineral-rich spring at its center. Accessible via a short hike, Homestead Crater offers the opportunity to soak in the geothermal waters while surrounded by the enchanting ambiance of a natural cave. Whether you choose to swim, snorkel, or simply relax, the warm and crystal-clear waters of Homestead Crater provide a truly memorable and one-of-a-kind experience.
7.2 Mystic Hot Springs
Located in the scenic Sevier Valley, Mystic Hot Springs is a must-visit destination for hot springs enthusiasts. The natural hot spring pools, which are enclosed within vintage bathtubs, offer a unique and eclectic experience. The mineral-rich waters, known for their healing properties, are sourced from a geothermal well and provide a soothing and rejuvenating soak. Additionally, Mystic Hot Springs is home to an artist community, making it a vibrant and creative space where you can immerse yourself in art and music while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.
7.3 Fifth Water Hot Springs
Located in Diamond Fork Canyon, Fifth Water Hot Springs is a hidden gem that showcases the breathtaking beauty of Utah’s mountains and valleys. Accessible via a scenic hiking trail, these natural hot springs consist of several pools of varying temperatures, with the warmest pool reaching around 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, Fifth Water Hot Springs provides the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
8. Washington
Washington, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, is also home to several exceptional hot springs. Among the top hot springs destinations in Washington are Sol Duc Hot Springs, Olympic Hot Springs, and Goldmyer Hot Springs.
8.1 Sol Duc Hot Springs
Located within Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs is a hidden paradise that offers a unique and serene hot springs experience. Surrounded by the lush temperate rainforest of the park, these hot springs consist of three mineral pools, varying in temperature from 99 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether you choose to soak in the therapeutic waters or indulge in a spa treatment at the adjacent resort, Sol Duc Hot Springs provides a tranquil oasis where you can connect with nature and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
8.2 Olympic Hot Springs
Accessible via a scenic hike through Olympic National Park, Olympic Hot Springs offers a picturesque and natural hot springs experience. These hot springs, nestled amidst the old-growth forests of the park, consist of primitive rock pools filled with mineral-rich water. As you soak in the soothing waters, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, creating a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere. Olympic Hot Springs allows you to experience the untouched beauty of Washington’s wilderness while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs.
8.3 Goldmyer Hot Springs
Situated in the pristine Snoqualmie National Forest, Goldmyer Hot Springs offers an exclusive and secluded hot springs experience. Accessible via a scenic hike or a guided trail ride, these natural hot springs are situated along the banks of the Snoqualmie River. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a series of cascading rock pools, filled with crystal-clear water heated by geothermal sources. The tranquil surroundings and remote location create a sense of serenity and tranquility, making Goldmyer Hot Springs a hidden gem worth exploring.
9. Wyoming
Wyoming, renowned for its stunning national parks and rugged landscapes, is also home to several remarkable hot springs. Among the top hot springs destinations in Wyoming are Granite Hot Springs, Saratoga Hot Springs, and Hot Springs State Park.
9.1 Granite Hot Springs
Nestled within the breathtaking Bridger-Teton National Forest, Granite Hot Springs offers a serene and picturesque hot springs experience. Situated alongside the beautiful Granite Creek, these thermal pools are a hidden gem in the heart of the forest. The soothing mineral waters, with temperatures reaching around 104 degrees Fahrenheit, provide a relaxing and rejuvenating soak. Whether you choose to visit during the winter months, when the pools are surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, or in the summer, when you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the forest, Granite Hot Springs is a must-visit destination in Wyoming.
9.2 Saratoga Hot Springs
Located in the charming town of Saratoga, Saratoga Hot Springs provides a unique and relaxing hot springs experience. The hot springs, nestled along the banks of the North Platte River, offer a range of pools with varying temperatures, allowing you to find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the surrounding beauty. The mineral-rich waters, sourced from underground wells, are believed to have numerous health benefits, making Saratoga Hot Springs a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
9.3 Hot Springs State Park
Situated in Thermopolis, Hot Springs State Park is a haven for hot springs enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This unique state park is home to the largest mineral hot spring in the world, known as the “Big Spring.” The thermal water flows at a constant temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a mesmerizing sight as it cascades into the surrounding terraces. Additionally, the park offers several soaking pools and bathhouses where visitors can relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs. A visit to Hot Springs State Park allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Wyoming while experiencing the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters.
10. Other States
Apart from the states mentioned above, there are a few other states that boast noteworthy hot springs destinations. Let’s explore Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas, Hot Springs in Montana, and Hot Springs in New Mexico.
10.1 Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)
Located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is a unique destination that combines the natural beauty of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains with the therapeutic benefits of geothermal hot springs. The park offers several bathhouses where visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters, known for their healing properties. Additionally, there are numerous hiking trails that allow you to explore the pristine wilderness and enjoy panoramic views of the area. Hot Springs National Park provides an immersive and rejuvenating experience where you can connect with nature and indulge in the healing powers of the hot springs.
10.2 Hot Springs (Montana)
Nestled within the picturesque Bitterroot Mountains in Montana, Hot Springs is a small town that is famous for its abundance of natural hot springs. The town’s mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties and are said to provide relief from various ailments. Visitors can soak in the hot springs at local resorts and lodges while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the surrounding mountains. Whether you choose to visit in the winter, when the hot springs offer a cozy retreat amidst snow-covered landscapes, or during the summer, when you can unwind in the soothing waters under the open sky, Hot Springs, Montana, offers a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway.
10.3 Hot Springs (New Mexico)
Situated in the breathtaking Jemez Mountains of New Mexico, the town of Hot Springs is a hidden gem that offers a unique and relaxing hot springs experience. The natural hot springs in the area are rich in minerals and are known for their therapeutic properties. Whether you choose to soak in the hot springs at one of the local resorts or opt for a more secluded and primitive experience in the wilderness, Hot Springs, New Mexico, provides a serene and rejuvenating retreat. Surrounded by magnificent landscapes and vibrant hot springs, a visit to Hot Springs, New Mexico, promises a memorable and revitalizing experience.
In conclusion, the United States offers a diverse range of hot springs that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a remote and rustic hot springs experience or a luxurious resort setting, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the rugged landscapes of Alaska to the desert scenery of Nevada, and from the lush forests of Oregon to the stunning national parks of Wyoming, hot springs can be found in various stunning locations across the country. So take some time for relaxation and soak your cares away in one of these incredible hot springs destinations.