When winter arrives, visiting hot springs is considered one of the best ways to unwind. Escape the biting wind and gray skies by stepping into a steaming mineral pool. Whether you’re looking to soothe sore muscles after a ski trip or escape the daily grind, the United States is full of hot springs perfect for winter recovery. From luxury resorts with poolside cocktail service to secluded country pools, we can reconnect with nature.

Here are some of the best hot springs in the USA, located across both coasts, waiting for you to visit.

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Best Hot Springs in the US

From the snowy peaks of Colorado to the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest, decide on your winter getaway before the crowds arrive.

1. Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs, Colorado

Strawberry Park in Steamboat Springs offers an unspoiled, rustic atmosphere, with natural stone pools terraced along mountain streams. Steam rises into the crisp air, surrounded by snow-capped pine trees.

Is Clothing Optional: During the day, no. However, after dark, it becomes an adults-only, clothing-optional venue.

Hot Spring Facilities: Facilities include restrooms, heated changing tents, massage services, a spa, and multiple pools with varying temperatures.

Estimated Cost: $20 per person (Cash only). Note: During winter, you are required to have a 4WD vehicle with snow tires or take a shuttle.

2. Glenwood Springs Hot Springs, Colorado

This is a large, fully integrated resort, and Glenwood Springs offers the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. As a complete resort, you can enjoy all the comfortable amenities that make this a relaxing winter destination. Perfect for families and couples to visit.

Is Clothing Optional: No. Swimsuits are mandatory.

Hot Spring Facilities: A massive main pool about 90°F, a hotter therapy pool about 104°F, a lodge, a full athletic club, locker rooms, and a grill for food.

Estimated Cost: Varies by season, typically between $30 and $55 for a day pass.

3. Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Colorado

Located just down the road from Glenwood Springs, Iron Mountain offers a more intimate, upscale experience. Instead of one giant pool, you get 16 smaller, naturally shaped mineral pools varying in temperature. They sit right on the bank of the Colorado River, offering incredible views of Mt. Sopris. They also recently added a 21+ “WorldSprings” area inspired by famous waters from around the globe.

Is Clothing Optional: No. Swimsuits are mandatory.

Hot Spring Facilities: 16 mineral pools, a freshwater family pool, a café, changing rooms with complimentary showers, and towel rental

Estimated Cost: Usually ranging from $40 to $75. Reservations are highly recommended.

4. Fifth Water Hot Springs, Utah

Reaching Fifth Water Hot Springs requires a hike, making it ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures. Combined with its dreamy blue waters and the canyon scenery surrounding the natural rock pools, it’s often considered one of the best natural hot springs in the USA. Note that the surrounding area has a noticeable sulfur smell, but this doesn’t detract from the therapeutic experience of the hot springs.

Is Clothing Optional: Legally, no. But many visitors still choose to bathe nude.

Hot Spring Facilities: There is a pit toilet at the trailhead, but nothing at the springs. Pack out everything you bring in.

Estimated Cost: Free. However, parking fees or a National Parks Pass are required.

5. The Rock Tub Hot Springs, California

Hidden in the vast Long Valley Caldera near Mammoth Lakes, The Rock Tub is a tiny, concrete and stone pool fed by a pipe of natural hot water. It sits out in the open sagebrush plains with an epic view of the Eastern Sierra mountains. It’s small, fitting maybe 4-6 people comfortably, so it feels like a private hot tub if you’re lucky enough to get it to yourself. There are five natural hot springs near Mammoth Lakes that you can visit, depending on availability.

Is Clothing Optional: Yes. It is on BLM land, and nudity is common and accepted here.

Hot Spring Facilities: None. It is primitive. No toilet, no trash cans.

Estimated Cost: Free.

6. Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

If you’re searching for the coolest hot springs in the USA, Chena Hot Springs is the ultimate destination. Located about 60 miles east of Fairbanks, the water here stays a steady 106 °F even in the surrounding cold. And the best part? Soak in the hot springs while watching the Northern Lights. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Is Clothing Optional: No. Swimsuits are required.

Hot Spring Facilities: Full resort with an indoor pool, outdoor hot lake (adults only), the Aurora Ice Museum, a restaurant, and lodging.

Estimated Cost: Around $20 for a day pass.

7. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs, New Mexico

Ojo Caliente is one of America’s oldest hot springs, located about an hour’s drive from Santa Fe. Its uniqueness lies in the diversity of its waters, they feature lithium, iron, soda, and arsenic pools, each with distinct healing properties. Unlike the snowy landscapes of Chena Hot Springs, this destination offers a unique desert setting.

Is Clothing Optional: No in the communal pools. However, they offer private pools that can be rented where clothing is optional.

Hot Spring Facilities: Multiple mineral pools, a mud pool, a steam room, a sauna, spa services, hiking trails, and a farm-to-table restaurant.

Estimated Cost: Day passes range from $45 to $65, depending on the day of the week.

8. Chico Hot Springs, Montana

Located in the Paradise Valley north of Yellowstone, perfect for unwinding after a hike in Yellowstone National Park. It’s historic, unpretentious, and a whole lot of fun. The two open-air pools are fed by natural hot water and are the center of social life here.

Is Clothing Optional: No. Swimsuits are required.

Hot Spring Facilities: Two large outdoor pools, a poolside grille, a legendary saloon with live music, fine dining, and lodging.

Estimated Cost: Around $14 for a day pass.

9. Scenic Hot Springs, Washington

Scenic Hot Springs is a hidden gem among natural hot springs in the USA, highly prized by nature enthusiasts. It has one of the most breathtaking views in the Pacific Northwest, overlooking snow-capped peaks and alpine forests. Privately owned, it requires a steep hike to reach.

Is Clothing Optional: Yes.

Hot Spring Facilities: Minimal. There is a changing room and a toilet, but no running water or trash service.

Estimated Cost: Reservations are mandatory and cost around $15 per person.

10. Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon

Umpqua Hot Springs lies within the Umpqua National Forest, surrounded by dense forests and streams, and also requires a hike to reach. The hot springs themselves consist of several small natural pools, with water temperatures varying slightly depending on the season and location. The water cascades from one pool to the next, getting cooler as it goes down.

Is Clothing Optional: Yes. It is very common to see nude soakers here. Combined with the natural surroundings, this is the best clothing-optional hot springs in the US.

Hot Spring Facilities: A composting toilet at the parking lot, and the springs themselves are primitive.

Estimated Cost: $5 per vehicle.

11. Olympic Hot Springs, Washington

These are wild, unmaintained pools located deep in Olympic National Park. Since the Elwha River dam removal washed out the road, accessing these springs now requires a long hike. Hot spring pools are scattered throughout the dense evergreen forest, fed by meltwater from snow-capped mountains to form multiple natural ponds. For those seeking an experience of complete tranquility, this is an ideal natural hot spring destination.

Is Clothing Optional: Yes, typically treated as clothing-optional by backcountry users.

Hot Spring Facilities: None. Totally primitive.

Estimated Cost: National Park entrance fee.

12. Weir Creek Hot Springs, Idaho

Located in the Clearwater National Forest, it requires a short but steep hike. The pool is built with rocks and mortar, sitting high on a hillside with views of the creek and cedars below. It’s cozy, fitting about 10 people. The surrounding natural landscape also offers opportunities to observe wildlife.

Is Clothing Optional: Yes.

Hot Spring Facilities: Primitive. No amenities.

Estimated Cost: Free.

How to Choose the Right Hot Spring

Choosing the right location among the many USA hot springs depends on your budget and the experience you hope to gain.

• For the Luxury: Go to Glenwood Springs or Iron Mountain. You get lockers, showers, and drinks delivered to you. It’s clean, easy, and family-friendly.
• For the Adventurer: Fifth Water or Olympic Hot Springs are for you. You have to work for it with a hike, but the connection to nature is deeper.
• For the Romantic: Strawberry Park at night or Scenic Hot Springs offer privacy, mood lighting, and unforgettable views.

Key Tips for Enjoying Hot Springs

If this is your first visit to the hot springs, there are a few important things to keep in mind regarding your health and safety.

• Stay Hydrated: Hot water causes your body to lose water directly through sweat. Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
• Limit Time: Soak for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, especially in warmer pools, to prevent dehydration or overheating.
• Take Everything Out: Especially at natural hot springs, there won’t be trash cans nearby. Take all your trash with you.
• Check Road Conditions: Many of these spots are in the mountains. Winter roads can be treacherous.
• Know the Etiquette: If it’s a clothing-optional spring, be cool. Don’t stare, and no photos of strangers. If it’s a quiet hot spring, keep your voice down.
• Bring Essentials: Pack a towel, water shoes, a change of clothes, and a reusable water bottle. Many hot springs are located in remote areas with limited facilities.
• Health Advisory: Pregnant women, young children, and individuals with heart conditions should consult a physician before visiting hot springs.

FAQ

Where is the biggest hot spring in the US?

The largest single hot spring is the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone; however, due to excessive heat, entry is prohibited. The largest hot spring pool you can actually swim in is at Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

Which state is famous for hot springs?

Colorado is the most famous due to its accessibility and high concentration of hot spring resorts. However, Idaho actually has the most usable natural hot springs of any state, over 130 soakable ones.

How long should you soak in a hot spring?

Stay inside for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Come out, cool down, drink some water, then go back in. Staying in too long can lead to overheating, dehydration, or fainting.