Hot springs offer a unique way to relax and rejuvenate, surrounded by nature’s beauty. These geothermal wonders are scattered across the United States, each offering its own distinct experience. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a serene environment or explore a destination with historical significance, here are some of the top hot springs to check out across the country.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the most famous geothermal features in the world, including hot springs. While many of the park’s hot springs are too dangerous for bathing, the iconic Mammoth Hot Springs offer a stunning view of limestone terraces formed by thousands of years of geothermal activity. If you’re looking for a spot where you can safely soak, head to the Boiling River, located near the Mammoth Hot Springs area. Here, hot spring water mixes with the cooler waters of the Gardner River, creating a natural and safe soaking experience in one of the most famous national parks in the world.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Colorado
Nestled in the picturesque town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, Iron Mountain Hot Springs is a must-visit for anyone seeking a luxurious and tranquil hot springs experience. When you get an Iron Mountain Hot Springs annual pass, you get access to 16 mineral hot springs pools, each filled with therapeutic waters and varying in temperature. Iron Mountain provides an ideal setting to relax and soak in the healing benefits. The pools are perched along the Colorado River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In addition to the mineral pools, there is a freshwater family pool, making this destination perfect for visitors of all ages. The well-maintained facilities and the peaceful ambiance make getting an Iron Mountain Hot Springs annual pass a top choice for anyone visiting Colorado!
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas has a rich history of attracting visitors to its thermal waters for centuries. The park is located in the town of Hot Springs, where bathhouses have been built over the natural hot springs, offering a combination of relaxation and historical exploration. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored Bathhouse Row, where the tradition of “taking the waters” began in the 19th century. The park offers opportunities to soak in the thermal waters at one of the historic bathhouses or hike the trails surrounding the springs to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Travertine Hot Springs, California
Located near the town of Bridgeport in the eastern Sierra Nevada, Travertine Hot Springs offers a more rustic and natural hot springs experience. The hot springs here flow through colorful mineral deposits, creating small, warm pools with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Accessible by a short dirt road, Travertine Hot Springs is a favorite spot for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures and stunning scenery. The pools vary in temperature, allowing visitors to find the perfect spot to relax and soak while enjoying the serene and remote environment.
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
For those seeking a hot springs adventure in the rugged wilderness of Alaska, Chena Hot Springs is the place to go. Located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, this hot springs resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities. The hot springs’ geothermal waters stay warm even during the frigid Alaskan winter, making it a popular spot for viewing the Northern Lights while soaking in the warm, mineral-rich water. Chena Hot Springs also features an ice museum, dog sledding tours, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it an all-season destination.