Everyone loves a spa, especially when it’s created by nature. No matter what time of year it is, soaking in a natural hot spring is an experience worth having, especially if it comes with mountain views. Relax after a long day of travel by dipping in geothermically warmed water, escaping from the Earth’s crust. Not only is a soak good for stress relief, boosting circulation, and helping with muscle and skin ailments, but also, it’s a fun time to enjoy with friends and family. Keep reading to learn about the best hot springs in Montana.
Chico Hot Springs, Pray
With two outdoor natural mineral hot springs pools, Chico Hot Springs is one of the top places to visit for a rejuvenating thermal soak, mainly because it’s only one hour from Bozeman, 45 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, and 30 minutes from the charming town of Livingston. Stay in the historic main lodge and enjoy dinner and drinks in the Dining Room. Located on 800 acres in Paradise Valley, at the base of Emigrant Peak, Chico has been a local favorite since the 1900s.
Norris Hot Springs, Norris
Far removed from city lights and the hubbub of any well-populated town, Norris Hot Springs is a diamond in the rough. Open year-round, come for a soak, and listen to live music pumping out of the music dome. In the warmer months, May—September, reserve a weekend campground spot and soak to your heart’s delight. Add Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park and Virginia City to your itinerary for a well-rounded, classic Montana experience.
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Bozeman Hot Springs, Bozeman
A favorite with locals as well as visitors, Bozeman Hot Springs has it all. Located near one of the state's major airports, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (20 minutes), as well as Yellowstone National Park (under two hours) and Big Sky Resort (one hour), Bozeman Hot Springs is a natural hot spring with 12 different pools of varying temperatures. Additionally, gym fans can use the entire fitness facility before their soak. Open year-round, the facility also has outdoor live music events so you can enjoy entertainment while you're immersed in the thermal waters.
Yellowstone Hot Springs, Gardiner
A big hit with campers and RV fans, Yellowstone Hot Springs has natural mineral waters and grand mountain views. Flow from the hot pools to the cold plunge to increase your body’s circulation, helping you feel reinvigorated. Stay in a cabin or bring your RV or tent and make sure you’ve secured your spot in the hot springs just before sunset so you can watch the sky light up with pink and orange hues. Located just eight miles north of Yellowstone National Park’s North entrance, this hot springs is easy to add to your travel experience before or after a visit to the national park.
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Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, Paradise
Snow flurries will paint the perfect picture with a visit to Paradise’s Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, located about one hour northwest of Missoula. And, while the mineral springs are the main event worthy of accolades and praise, the river-view cabins will allure you back again and again. Situated along the banks of the Clark Fork River, these cabins are romantic and remote and provide easy access to the hot springs and Harwood House Restaurant. Visit Quinn’s Tavern for a round of pool and a few beers, and the experience is complete.
Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs, Saco
Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs has one feature that many others don’t, their sauna. Located near the Nelson State Recreation Area and the Nelson Reservoir at the northern top of the state, this hot springs has been in business since the 1920s. Relax in the main pool, the hot tub, and, of course, the sauna. Rustic cabin accommodations are available as well as RV hookups and tent sites. Locals here are the salt of the Earth, warm and welcoming.
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Elkhorn Hot Springs, Polaris
Nestled in southwest Montana, Elkhorn Hot Springs is a lovely low-key escape in the Grasshopper valley north of the Idaho border, 40 miles from Dillon, Montana. Heated by geothermal energy, the thermal pools here are a treat for the senses. Affordable and family-friendly, evergreen trees surround you as you soak your worries away. The rustic lodge, built in 1918, is where to go for beer and burgers or to relax in front of the fireplace. Dormitory-style lodge rooms are also available should you want to stay in this historic building. Plus, for accommodations, breakfast, and access to the hot springs, you'll only pay $50 per night per person.
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Anaconda
Known for having something for everyone, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, located 20 minutes west of Butte and 15 south of Anaconda, has two Olympic-sized swimming pools and two mineral soaking pools—one of each situated indoors as well as outdoors. The 350-foot enclosed waterslide, which uses hot springs water, is a hit for families and is open year-round. Guest rooms and suites are available, and there are seasonal activities and events, like golf in the summer and skiing at Discovery Basin in the winter, to entertain all.
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Lolo Hot Springs Resort, Lolo
Located one hour southwest of Missoula, Lolo Hot Springs Resort has a full bar and restaurant, a casino, and indoor and outdoor hot springs and pools. Book a stay in one of the cabins and enjoy two passes to the hot springs. In the summer, golf, go horseback riding, and enjoy camping. Winter months are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.