7 Hot Springs in the US to Take a Dip in

Maybe you just got off a road trip and desperately need to relax. Unwind in one of these hot springs in the US with its mineral-rich waters! Whether you wanna soak in nature or enjoy a spa-like experience, you can find a hot spring to suit your preference and location. Here are seven hot springs in the US to take a dip in!

1. Chena Hot Springs Resort – Fairbanks, Alaska

Best in the winter months, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers spectacular stays and even the chance to catch the northern lights! The hot springs here were discovered in 1905 and became famous for curing crippled prospectors of their aches and pains. Today, the springs continue to offer respite, and they also have a view to boot. Accommodation options range from simple yurts with no water or electricity to family suites with ensuite bathrooms. A variety of activities are also available, such as dog-sled rides with huskies and snowmobile tours.

2. Hot Springs State Park – Thermopolis, Wyoming

Just a few hours away from Yellowstone National Park is Hot Springs State Park. The public recreational area features hiking trails, comfort stations, fishing spots, and a boat ramp. The bath house has both outdoor and indoor pools, maintained at 104°F (40°C)for therapeutic bathing. Best of all? Admission is completely free, thanks to the agreement with the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, who sold the land to the government.

3. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection – Calistoga, California

Napa Valley is not just renowned for its vineyards! The small city of Calistoga in the wine region is home to abundant thermal springs. Several resorts here offer mineral pools where visitors can soak in. One of them is Solage, which combines Calistoga’s mud and mineral water therapies with a luxurious stay. It is a must-visit for wine lovers, foodies and wellness seekers!

4. Fifth Water Hot Springs – Diamond Fork Canyon, Utah

About an hour’s drive away from downtown Salt Lake City, Fifth Water Hot Springs feature several soaking pools as well as a magnificent waterfall. These natural bathing pools are about 2.5 miles (four kilometres) from the main trailhead and make for a great soak after the hike. Their beautiful turquoise colour gives it an otherworldly vibe, but the slight sulphurous and eggy scent might be a turn off for some. There are many different pools here at different temperatures. Try them out to see which one you like best!

5. Hot Springs National Park – Hot Springs, Arkansas

This national park is nicknamed ‘The American Spa’. The hot spring water here is believed to possess medicinal properties, and was a subject of legend among several Native American tribes. Before European colonization, they had been gathering in the valley for over 8,000 years to enjoy the thermal springs. Today, you cannot soak in the outdoor springs, but the Bathhouse Row has two facilities that offer visitors the chance to take a dip.

6. Mono Hot Springs – Lakeshore, California

Located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada range in northern California, Mono Hot Springs combines adventures and wellness. Here, you can enjoy wilderness experiences of hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, horseback riding, as well as having resort amenities such as a spa, hot springs, fine food and comfortable accommodations. There are 12 pools here running alongside the San Joaquin River. Old Pedro is the hottest at 107°F (42°C), while the Reed Pools are slightly cooler.

7. Burgdorf Hot Springs – McCall, Idaho

Burgdorf Hot Springs is a rustic, historic resort nestled in the mountains of the Payette National Forest. Apart from accommodation options, there are three historic pools to soak in here. The two small pools at the source of the spring are at a toasty 113°F (45°C), while the larger pool averages 96-113°F (35.5-45°C), depending on the season. There is also a shallow pool for the kids! Do note that you have to bring your own bedding and cabins are without running water and electricity, so come prepared to ‘camp’ inside a cabin!