10 of the Best Hot Springs in the United States

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From Travel + Leisure

No matter the season, natural hot springs offer relaxing, geothermal waters in often scenic settings. Across the country, you can find hot springs to fit every travel preference, whether you’re looking to take a dip in nature after a hike or prefer a spa-like experience. From Alaskan pools that are perfect for viewing the northern lights to the national park named for its geothermal waters, here are 10 of the best hot springs in the United States.

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Of course, hot springs can be very dangerous, so be sure to use caution and only swim where it is safe.

Calistoga, California

Located in beautiful Napa Valley, Calistoga is known for its abundant hot springs. Several resorts in the area offer mineral pools where visitors can enjoy the waters. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, for example, has four geothermal mineral pools, including a hot whirlpool and a warm lap pool. For those looking for a luxurious stay during their wine country trip, Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection is home to an expansive spa with a bathhouse featuring geothermal pools of ranging temperatures.

Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis, Wyoming

Named Thermopolis for its many natural hot springs, this town is home to Hot Springs State Park. Visitors can soak in the public bathhouse’s 104-degree waters for free. Keep an eye out for bison, and be sure to check out the petroglyphs at Legend Rock while you’re there.

Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport, California

Take in views of the Sierras while soaking in the natural Travertine Hot Springs near Bridgeport, California. Located on California State Park land off of Route 395, these small, rustic pools are the perfect stop after a day of hiking.

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Chena Hot Springs Resort, Fairbanks, Alaska

Perhaps the most remote hot springs on this list, Chena Hot Springs Resort is located in Fairbanks, Alaska. The resort offers interesting activities all year, including the Aurora Ice Museum, but we recommend visiting during the winter months. The hot springs offer a cozy respite from chilly temperatures, and you might even spot the northern lights while you soak.

Dunton Hot Springs, Dolores, Colorado

Dunton Hot Springs, an 1800s ghost town-turned-upscale resort, offers a variety of hot springs pools in a picturesque setting. Soak inside the bathhouse, in an outdoor pool, or book the Well House for your own private hot springs experience.

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Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

After safely viewing the thermal basins and geysers, experience Yellowstone’s geothermal waters for yourself. You cannot soak in the park’s hot springs, as they can be very dangerous, but you can usually swim in the Boiling River in a designated swimming and soaking area. At nearby Yellowstone Hot Springs, just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park, you'll find pools filled with warm mineral water.

Castle Hot Springs, Arizona

This dreamy resort is the ideal destination for travelers looking for a luxurious hot springs experience. Secluded pools are located within the beautiful desert landscape, offering a unique soaking experience, and an inclusive stay here includes meals, access to the springs, and activities like guided hikes and farm tours.

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Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas

No list of hot springs in the U.S. would be complete without Hot Springs National Park, located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. See the thermal water in its natural setting at the Display Spring or Hot Water Cascade before visiting Bathhouse Row. There are no outdoor hot springs suitable for bathing at this park, but you can visit the Buckstaff Bathhouse or Quapaw Baths to soak in the geothermal waters.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

With mountains, lakes, a canyon, and more, Glenwood Springs has outdoor activities for everyone. Once you’ve spent a day hiking or hitting the slopes, take a dip in one of the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is the most famous because it’s home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Iron Mountain Hot Springs features a bathhouse and 16 geothermal pools overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

Uniquely named Truth or Consequences is known for its hot springs. Take a dip at Riverbend Hot Springs to enjoy views of the Rio Grande while you soak.

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