Best Natural Hot Springs in the United States
The United States harbours some of the world's most spectacular natural hot springs, offering travellers the opportunity to immerse themselves in geothermal waters whilst surrounded by stunning landscapes. From the volcanic terrain of the Pacific Northwest to the desert canyons of the Southwest, these naturally heated pools provide therapeutic relaxation, mineral-rich healing properties, and unforgettable experiences.
Natural hot springs occur when groundwater is heated by geothermal activity deep beneath the Earth's surface, rising through fissures and emerging as warm to scalding pools. The United States, positioned along multiple tectonic zones and volcanic regions, boasts hundreds of these remarkable geological features. This comprehensive guide explores the finest natural hot springs across the nation, providing essential details about temperatures, facilities, accessibility, and what makes each destination unique.
Whether you seek primitive wilderness soaking experiences or developed resort facilities, understanding the characteristics of America's premier hot springs destinations enables informed planning for your geothermal wellness journey.
Understanding Natural Hot Springs
Before exploring specific destinations, understanding what makes a hot spring "natural" and how these geological phenomena function helps travellers appreciate these remarkable sites. Natural hot springs differ significantly from artificially heated pools or spas, offering genuine geothermal experiences shaped by volcanic and tectonic forces.
Geological Formation and Mineral Content
Natural hot springs form when rainfall or snowmelt percolates deep into the Earth's crust, where it encounters heated rock layers or magma chambers. This water absorbs heat and dissolves various minerals—including sulphur, calcium, magnesium, silica, and lithium—before rising back to the surface through cracks and faults in the bedrock.
The mineral composition varies dramatically based on the geological characteristics of each location. Some springs contain high sulphur concentrations, creating distinctive odours but offering potential therapeutic benefits for skin conditions. Others feature silica-rich waters that leave white or colourful deposits around pool edges. Understanding these mineral profiles helps travellers select springs that match their wellness objectives.
According to research from the United States Geological Survey, the western United States contains the highest concentration of geothermal features due to its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire and the presence of the Yellowstone hotspot.
Temperature Considerations and Safety
Natural hot springs exhibit temperatures ranging from lukewarm (approximately 32°C/90°F) to dangerously hot (exceeding 71°C/160°F). The most comfortable soaking temperatures typically fall between 37-40°C (98-104°F), though personal preferences vary. Many developed hot springs facilities blend geothermal water with cooler water to achieve ideal bathing temperatures.
Safety remains paramount when visiting natural hot springs. Scalding water poses serious burn risks, particularly at undeveloped wilderness springs where temperature regulation doesn't exist. Always test water temperature before entering, watch for warning signs, and never allow children to enter hot springs unsupervised.
The Best Natural Hot Springs in the United States
1. Yellowstone National Park Hot Springs - Wyoming
Location: Yellowstone National Park, Northwestern Wyoming
Temperatures: Variable, from 38°C to 93°C (100°F to 200°F+)
Accessibility: Highly accessible via paved pathways; no soaking permitted in thermal features
Yellowstone National Park contains over 10,000 geothermal features, representing the world's largest concentration of geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and fumaroles. The park sits atop a massive volcanic hotspot that powers these extraordinary phenomena. Iconic features include the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States at 112 metres in diameter, displaying brilliant rainbow colours created by thermophilic bacteria.
Whilst Yellowstone's thermal features are strictly protected and bathing is prohibited in nearly all locations, the park offers unparalleled opportunities to observe natural geothermal activity in its pristine state. The Boiling River area near Mammoth Hot Springs provides one of the few locations where visitors can legally soak, where hot spring water mixes with the cold Gardner River.
Facilities: Extensive visitor facilities throughout the park including lodging, camping, restaurants, and interpretive centres. The park maintains excellent infrastructure for observing thermal features safely via boardwalks and designated paths.
Nearby Attractions: Old Faithful Geyser, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Yellowstone Lake, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. The park's 2.2 million acres offer endless exploration opportunities.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round access, though summer (June-September) provides the most comfortable weather. Winter visits offer unique perspectives on thermal features surrounded by snow and ice, with steam clouds creating dramatic landscapes.
Learn more from the National Park Service Yellowstone website.
2. Chena Hot Springs - Alaska
Location: Chena Hot Springs Road, 96 km northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska
Temperatures: Maintained at 39-41°C (102-106°F) in developed pools; source springs reach 57°C (135°F)
Accessibility: Accessible via paved road year-round; developed resort with excellent facilities
Chena Hot Springs Resort represents one of Alaska's most famous geothermal destinations, discovered in 1905 by gold miners seeking relief from ailments. The resort has evolved into a sophisticated facility whilst maintaining rustic Alaskan charm. The property operates year-round, offering the unique experience of soaking in steaming outdoor pools whilst surrounded by frozen wilderness and, during winter months, beneath the spectacular aurora borealis.
The resort demonstrates remarkable innovation by utilising geothermal energy for heating, electricity generation, and greenhouse operations. Visitors can tour the geothermal power plant and see how relatively low-temperature geothermal resources can be harnessed efficiently. The property also maintains an ice museum, kept frozen year-round using excess geothermal power.
Facilities: Full-service resort including lodging, restaurant, bar, indoor and outdoor hot pools, ice museum, aurora viewing programmes, and activity centre. The rock lake (outdoor pool) allows soaking beneath the northern lights during winter.
Nearby Attractions: Chena River State Recreation Area, excellent aurora borealis viewing (August-April), dog sledding, snowmobiling, hiking, and wildlife observation. Fairbanks, Alaska's second-largest city, lies within an hour's drive.
Best Visiting Season: Winter (September-March) for aurora viewing combined with hot springs soaking; summer (June-August) for midnight sun experiences and hiking.
3. Hot Springs State Park - Wyoming
Location: Thermopolis, Central Wyoming
Temperatures: 54°C (129°F) at source; cooled to 40-41°C (104-106°F) in bathing facilities
Accessibility: Highly accessible with paved paths; free public bathing available
Thermopolis hosts the world's largest mineral hot spring, producing approximately 8.3 million litres of mineral water daily at a constant temperature of 54°C. The Wyoming state park surrounding the springs offers free public bathing facilities, fulfilling a condition established when the Wind River Indian Reservation ceded the springs to Wyoming in 1896.
The Big Spring flows down Rainbow Terrace, creating colourful travertine deposits similar to those at Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone. The terraces display brilliant oranges, yellows, and browns created by thermophilic algae and mineral deposits. Visitors can walk along boardwalks observing these formations whilst steam rises dramatically into the air.
Facilities: Two free public bathhouses within the state park, plus several commercial facilities including water slides and private pools. Extensive park grounds include picnic areas, walking trails, bison herd viewing area, and the Wyoming Pioneer Home. Commercial operations adjacent to the park offer additional amenities.
Nearby Attractions: Wyoming Dinosaur Center (one of America's finest dinosaur museums), Wind River Canyon, Boysen Reservoir, historic downtown Thermopolis with Old West architecture.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round; summer offers warm weather for exploring the broader area, whilst winter provides dramatic steam displays.
4. Glenwood Hot Springs - Colorado
Location: Glenwood Springs, Western Colorado
Temperatures: Two pools maintained at 36°C and 40°C (96°F and 104°F)
Accessibility: Excellent accessibility in town setting; fully developed commercial facility
Glenwood Hot Springs operates the world's largest hot springs pool, measuring over 122 metres in length and containing approximately 4.2 million litres of geothermal mineral water. The facility, opened in 1888, has hosted numerous famous visitors throughout history, including President Theodore Roosevelt.
The springs produce approximately 13.6 million litres of mineral water daily at temperatures reaching 51°C (124°F). The facility maintains two massive pools—a larger swimming and recreation pool kept at moderate temperature and a smaller therapy pool maintained at higher temperature specifically for therapeutic soaking. The mineral content includes sulphate, bicarbonate, calcium, potassium, and silica.
Facilities: Two massive outdoor pools, lodging at the adjacent hotel, mini golf, water slides, private treatment rooms, café, and athletic club. The facility operates year-round with extensive amenities. Recently added adventure attractions include mountain-top hot springs pools accessible via gondola.
Nearby Attractions: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Hanging Lake (spectacular hiking destination), White River National Forest, skiing at Aspen and Sunlight Mountain Resort, rafting on the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round destination; winter offers dramatic steam displays and proximity to world-class skiing; summer provides excellent hiking and rafting opportunities.
5. Travertine Hot Springs - California
Location: Near Bridgeport, Eastern Sierra Nevada, California
Temperatures: Variable, 38-49°C (100-120°F) depending on specific pool
Accessibility: Moderate; requires short hike from parking area; primitive facility
Travertine Hot Springs offers one of California's finest primitive hot springs experiences, featuring multiple pools at varying temperatures cascading down a hillside overlooking the stunning Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range. The springs create dramatic travertine terraces, with mineral deposits forming natural bathing pools that visitors can access free of charge.
The undeveloped nature of these springs means visitors experience authentic wilderness soaking without commercial facilities or development. Multiple pools allow temperature selection based on preference, as water cools whilst flowing downhill from the source. The panoramic views encompass the Bridgeport Valley, Sawtooth Ridge, and surrounding peaks.
Facilities: None; this is a primitive site. Visitors must pack out all rubbish and practise Leave No Trace principles. The nearest services are in Bridgeport, approximately 8 km away. No changing facilities, restrooms, or shelters exist on site.
Nearby Attractions: Yosemite National Park (eastern entrance), Mono Lake and its remarkable tufa towers, Bodie State Historic Park (authentic gold rush ghost town), hiking and fishing in Hoover Wilderness and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.
Best Visiting Season: Spring through autumn (May-October); winter access can be challenging due to snow. Sunrise and sunset soaking offers spectacular lighting on the surrounding mountains.
Additional information available from the U.S. Forest Service.
6. Strawberry Park Hot Springs - Colorado
Location: 11 km north of Steamboat Springs, Northern Colorado
Temperatures: Multiple pools ranging 38-41°C (100-106°F)
Accessibility: Moderate; requires driving narrow dirt road or hiking 1.6 km; semi-developed facility
Strawberry Park Hot Springs provides a rustic mountain soaking experience in a stunning forest setting along Hot Springs Creek. The facility maintains several rock-lined pools at varying temperatures, blending hot spring water with cool creek water to achieve comfortable soaking conditions. The springs sit at 2,287 metres elevation, surrounded by pine and aspen forests.
The property balances rustic character with basic amenities, offering changing facilities and overnight accommodation in cabooses and cabins. Evening visits allow soaking beneath star-filled mountain skies, though note that clothing-optional policies apply after dark. The intimate scale and natural setting create a peaceful atmosphere distinct from larger commercial operations.
Facilities: Multiple rock-lined soaking pools, changing rooms, restrooms, overnight accommodation in train cabooses and rustic cabins, massage services available by reservation. No food service on site; visitors should bring refreshments.
Nearby Attractions: Steamboat Springs ski resort (winter), extensive hiking and mountain biking trails (summer), Fish Creek Falls, Yampa River activities, Steamboat Springs town centre with dining and shopping, Flat Tops Wilderness Area.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round; winter soaking whilst snow falls creates magical experiences; summer offers comfortable access and pleasant temperatures for hiking combined with soaking.
7. Hot Springs National Park - Arkansas
Location: Hot Springs, Central Arkansas
Temperatures: 47°C (117°F) at source
Accessibility: Excellent accessibility in urban setting; historic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row
Hot Springs National Park, established in 1832 as a federal reservation (predating Yellowstone as the first protected area), preserves 47 thermal springs on the southwestern slope of Hot Springs Mountain. The park's historic Bathhouse Row features magnificent early 20th-century architecture, with elaborate bathhouses offering traditional spa treatments using the renowned thermal waters.
The springs emerge from the ground at approximately 47°C, having been heated deep underground and aged an estimated 4,000 years during their journey through rock formations. The water is collected, cooled, and distributed to bathhouses and fountains throughout the park. Two facilities on Bathhouse Row currently operate: Buckstaff Bathhouse (offering traditional bathing experiences since 1912) and Quapaw Baths and Spa (featuring modern pools and spa services).
Facilities: Historic bathhouses with traditional bathing and modern spa services, visitor centre in Fordyce Bathhouse museum, hiking trails on Hot Springs and North Mountains, public fountains dispensing thermal water for drinking. The town of Hot Springs provides full tourist infrastructure.
Nearby Attractions: Lake Ouachita (excellent boating, fishing, and swimming), Garvan Woodland Gardens, Magic Springs Theme Park, historic downtown Hot Springs with galleries and dining, Ouachita National Forest surrounding the area.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round; spring (March-May) offers pleasant weather and beautiful dogwood blooms; autumn (October-November) provides spectacular foliage in surrounding mountains.
Visit the National Park Service Hot Springs website for detailed information.
8. Bagby Hot Springs - Oregon
Location: Mount Hood National Forest, Northwestern Oregon
Temperatures: 51°C (124°F) at source; cooled to comfortable temperatures in tubs
Accessibility: Challenging; requires 2.4 km hike on well-maintained trail; primitive facility
Bagby Hot Springs offers one of the Pacific Northwest's most authentic wilderness hot springs experiences, featuring hand-hewn log bathhouses containing individual and communal cedar tubs. The 2.4-kilometre trail through old-growth forest provides a worthy approach to this remarkable destination, where volunteers have maintained rustic facilities since the 1970s.
The bathhouse structures contain private rooms with individual cedar tubs and a larger communal bathhouse with long soaking pools. Visitors hand-pump hot spring water into tubs, adjusting temperature by adding cold creek water. The entire experience embodies sustainable, low-impact wilderness recreation. The setting within ancient forest creates a cathedral-like atmosphere of peace and natural beauty.
Facilities: Cedar bathhouses with individual tubs and communal pools, pit toilets, designated camping area (no overnight parking at trailhead). No electricity, running water, or modern amenities. Visitors must bring supplies and pack out rubbish.
Nearby Attractions: Mount Hood, Timothy Lake, Clackamas River recreation area, extensive hiking in Mount Hood National Forest, Portland accessible within two hours for urban amenities and attractions.
Best Visiting Season: Late spring through autumn (May-October); winter access possible but challenging due to snow and icy trail conditions. Weekday visits recommended to avoid crowds.
9. Truth or Consequences Hot Springs - New Mexico
Location: Truth or Consequences, Southwestern New Mexico
Temperatures: Variable by facility, typically 40-44°C (104-112°F)
Accessibility: Excellent; multiple facilities throughout small town
The town of Truth or Consequences (renamed in 1950 from Hot Springs after a radio programme) sits atop a vast geothermal aquifer that feeds dozens of hot springs facilities throughout the community. The area's thermal waters have attracted visitors for centuries, beginning with Native American use and continuing through Spanish colonial settlement to modern spa tourism.
Rather than a single destination, Truth or Consequences offers numerous independent bathhouses and spa facilities, each drawing from the same geothermal system but offering unique atmospheres and amenities. Options range from basic soaking rooms to luxury spa facilities, allowing visitors to select experiences matching their preferences and budgets. Many facilities occupy historic buildings with authentic Southwestern character.
Facilities: Over a dozen independent bathhouses and spa facilities offering private soaking tubs, massage services, overnight accommodation, and various amenities. The small town provides restaurants, galleries, and shops within walking distance of most hot springs venues.
Nearby Attractions: Elephant Butte Lake (New Mexico's largest reservoir, offering excellent boating and fishing), Spaceport America (tours available), Geronimo Springs Museum, numerous art galleries and studios, Rio Grande hiking and bird watching.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round; mild winters make this an excellent cold-season destination; spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the area.
10. Dunton Hot Springs - Colorado
Location: San Juan Mountains, Southwestern Colorado
Temperatures: 39-41°C (102-106°F) in various pools
Accessibility: Challenging; requires significant drive on mountain roads; exclusive resort requiring reservations
Dunton Hot Springs represents the pinnacle of luxury wilderness hot springs experiences, featuring a restored ghost town transformed into an ultra-exclusive resort. The property maintains authentic late-19th-century buildings whilst incorporating five-star amenities and service. Natural hot springs feed multiple soaking locations, including the hand-hewn bathhouse, riverside pools, and private cabin tubs.
The resort's isolated location in a pristine mountain valley at 2,743 metres elevation ensures complete tranquillity and extraordinary natural beauty. Surrounding peaks, wildflower meadows, and rushing creeks create an unparalleled setting. The property accommodates limited guests, maintaining exclusivity and personalised service. This destination serves discerning travellers seeking the finest hot springs experience available in the United States.
Facilities: Restored historic cabins with luxury furnishings, gourmet dining, well-stocked saloon, yoga studio, multiple hot springs soaking locations, spa services, extensive recreational activities including hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and winter sports. All-inclusive rates cover accommodation, meals, and activities.
Nearby Attractions: Telluride ski resort and historic mining town, Mesa Verde National Park (ancient cliff dwellings), San Juan Skyway scenic drive, extensive wilderness areas for backcountry exploration.
Best Visiting Season: Year-round luxury destination; summer offers wildflowers and comfortable temperatures for hiking; winter provides world-class skiing access combined with cosy après-ski hot springs soaking.
Planning Your Hot Springs Journey
Health and Safety Considerations
Whilst hot springs offer therapeutic benefits, certain precautions ensure safe and enjoyable experiences. Limit initial soaking sessions to 15-20 minutes, as prolonged exposure to hot water can cause dehydration, overheating, and dizziness. Stay well-hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after soaking.
Individuals with cardiovascular conditions, pregnancy, or certain medical conditions should consult healthcare providers before hot springs bathing. High temperatures can stress the cardiovascular system and may not be appropriate for everyone. Children require constant supervision near hot springs, as water temperatures that adults tolerate comfortably can pose risks to younger bathers.
In undeveloped hot springs, be aware of potential waterborne bacteria and avoid submerging your head. Never drink from hot springs sources. Check for hazards including unstable ground, sharp rocks, and extreme temperature variations within pools.
Environmental Responsibility
Protecting natural hot springs ensures these remarkable resources remain available for future generations. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all rubbish, avoiding soap or shampoo use (even "biodegradable" products harm hot springs ecosystems), and respecting designated paths and access points.
The fragile ecosystems surrounding hot springs, including thermophilic bacteria and specialised plant communities, deserve protection. Stay on established trails, avoid disturbing travertine formations and mineral deposits, and never remove rocks or attempt to modify pools. Many organisms living in and around hot springs exist nowhere else on Earth.
According to The Nature Conservancy, geothermal features face increasing pressure from tourism. Responsible visitation practices protect these irreplaceable natural wonders.
What to Bring
Essential items for hot springs visits include appropriate swimwear, towels, water bottles for hydration, waterproof bags for electronics and dry clothes, and footwear suitable for potentially slippery surfaces. Sandals or water shoes protect feet from sharp rocks and hot surfaces near springs.
For wilderness hot springs requiring hiking access, pack accordingly with navigation tools, first aid supplies, headlamps for evening soaking, and weather-appropriate clothing. Many remote springs lack cellular coverage, making offline maps and emergency preparedness essential.
Consider bringing snacks high in electrolytes to help maintain proper hydration and energy levels during extended soaking sessions. A small cooler with cold drinks enhances comfort when moving between hot pools and cooling-off periods.
Etiquette and Cultural Considerations
Hot springs etiquette varies by location but generally includes respecting other visitors' experiences by maintaining reasonable noise levels, avoiding overcrowding individual pools, and being mindful of photography (always ask permission before photographing other visitors).
Some hot springs have clothing-optional traditions, whilst others strictly require swimwear. Research specific locations beforehand to understand expectations and choose destinations matching your comfort level. Many facilities designate specific hours or days for clothed versus optional bathing.
At developed commercial facilities, follow posted rules regarding food and drink, smoking policies, and capacity limits. At primitive wilderness springs, practice courteous sharing of limited space and respect quiet enjoyment of natural surroundings.
The Science and Benefits of Geothermal Bathing
Therapeutic Properties of Mineral Waters
Natural hot springs have provided therapeutic benefits for millennia, with modern research confirming many traditional healing claims. The combination of heat therapy, mineral absorption, and buoyancy creates multiple beneficial effects on human physiology.
Mineral content varies significantly amongst springs, with each offering potentially different therapeutic properties. Sulphur springs may benefit skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema. Calcium and magnesium-rich waters support bone and muscle health. Silica contributes to skin elasticity and joint health. The specific mineral profile determines the therapeutic applications most appropriate for each spring.
Research published in medical journals has documented benefits including improved circulation, reduced muscle tension, decreased joint pain from arthritis, enhanced sleep quality, and stress reduction. The heat causes vasodilation, increasing blood flow to muscles and organs whilst the buoyancy reduces pressure on joints and spine.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Indigenous peoples throughout North America valued hot springs as sacred healing waters and gathering places long before European contact. Many tribal cultures incorporated hot springs into spiritual practices and traditional medicine systems. This historical significance continues today, with numerous springs holding ongoing cultural importance to Native American communities.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, hot springs destinations became fashionable health resorts, with elaborate bathhouses constructed at major springs. This era produced magnificent architectural landmarks at locations including Hot Springs, Arkansas and Glenwood Springs, Colorado. These historic facilities document America's spa culture history whilst continuing to provide therapeutic services.
The growing interest in wellness tourism has renewed attention to natural hot springs as destinations combining relaxation, therapeutic benefits, and connection to natural environments. This trend supports conservation efforts by demonstrating the economic value of protecting geothermal resources.
Regional Hot Springs Destinations
Pacific Northwest Hot Springs
Oregon, Washington, and northern California contain numerous hot springs, many situated in spectacular mountain and forest settings. The volcanic Cascade Range provides the geothermal heat that creates these springs. Destinations range from developed resorts to remote wilderness springs requiring backpacking access.
Notable Pacific Northwest springs include Oregon's Umpqua Hot Springs (requiring moderate hiking through old-growth forest), Washington's Sol Duc Hot Springs (developed resort in Olympic National Park setting), and California's numerous Eastern Sierra springs. The region's wet climate means many springs offer year-round access despite mountain locations.
Rocky Mountain Hot Springs
Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana host exceptional hot springs destinations throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Colorado alone claims over 30 developed hot springs resorts and dozens of primitive springs. The state's extensive geothermal resources combined with spectacular mountain scenery create premier hot springs destinations.
Wyoming's geothermal features include not only Yellowstone's world-famous springs but also destinations like Thermopolis and Saratoga, where accessible soaking opportunities exist. Montana's numerous springs include Chico Hot Springs near Yellowstone's northern entrance and Quinn's Hot Springs in the western part of the state.
Southwest Desert Hot Springs
Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada contain numerous hot springs in dramatic desert and canyon settings. The contrast between hot mineral water and arid surroundings creates unique experiences. Many Southwest springs offer year-round comfortable weather, making them excellent cold-season destinations.
Notable destinations include Arizona's Verde Hot Springs (requiring hiking in scenic canyon setting), Utah's Mystic Hot Springs (featuring mineral-encrusted bathtubs perched on travertine mound), and Nevada's abundant springs including those near Black Rock Desert. New Mexico's Truth or Consequences represents the region's most developed hot springs community.
Conclusion
The United States offers extraordinary natural hot springs experiences ranging from primitive wilderness pools to luxurious resort facilities. Whether you seek therapeutic mineral soaking, stunning natural settings, historical bathhouse experiences, or exclusive wellness retreats, America's diverse hot springs destinations provide options matching every preference and budget.
These remarkable geothermal features represent irreplaceable natural treasures deserving protection and respect. By practising responsible visitation and supporting conservation efforts, travellers ensure these phenomenal places remain available for future generations to experience and enjoy.
From Yellowstone's world-famous geysers to hidden wilderness springs accessible only by trail, from historic bathhouses preserving spa culture heritage to modern wellness resorts, America's natural hot springs offer profoundly restorative experiences connecting visitors with Earth's geothermal forces and natural healing waters.
Planning hot springs travel? Phenomenal Place offers expert consultation for geothermal wellness destinations. Call 214-293-3218 to discuss your hot springs expedition planning needs.