Top Hot Springs in the US
Hot springs have been popular for centuries. They help balance inner chaos, improve blood circulation and relax muscles after long workouts. In addition, they are a way to socialise. For example, in ancient Rome, thermal baths were used for discussing important matters, socialising, and making useful acquaintances. Japanese hot spring culture, or onsen, is closely linked to Shinto beliefs in the purification of body and spirit, which have survived to this day. Today we will talk about the best hot springs in the US, where you can experience the culture of such places for yourself without having to fly to another country. Our experts have reviewed the most popular resorts and selected the places that are a must-visit among hot springs. We will also discuss how to prepare yourself for the procedure and learn some useful tips to help make this experience the most enjoyable.
Contents
Highlights
- Hot springs can be found across the US from Colorado and Arizona to Alaska and Oregon.
- The best resort hot springs include Glenwood, Mount Princeton, and Castle Hot Springs for a relaxing stay.
- If we consider natural ones, Strawberry Park and Umpqua let you soak in rustic pools surrounded by untouched nature.
- Always check the water, use minimum cosmetics and follow safety for the best experience.
Hot Springs in the US
Let’s start with what a hot spring is. Essentially, it is hot underground water. Usually, its temperature is +30 degrees Celsius or higher. Hot springs are formed in areas of volcanic activity or due to deep circulation of water heated by the Earth’s interior. Such water is enriched with minerals and is used for health purposes. It helps in the treatment of joint and skin diseases. It also works well in restoring mental health. Let’s take a look at the top 14 best hot springs in the US and find out why they are considered so.
Here are the 14 best hot springs in the US:
- Glenwood Hot Springs Resort,
- Iron Mountain Hot Springs,
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort,
- Castle Hot Springs,
- Ojo Caliente, New Mexico,
- Saratoga Spa State Park,
- Chico Hot Springs,
- Homestead Crater,
- Crystal Hot Springs,
- Murrieta Hot Springs,
- Chena Hot Springs,
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs,
- Umpqua Hot Springs,
- Lava Hot Springs.
Best Hot Springs Resorts in the US
To make your life easier we made a list of the best places to relax at hot springs SPA. In this digest, you can find the place that is perfect for you. Some of them are geared towards relaxation, while others are more suited to more serious purposes, such as medical treatment. Many of them have grown up around ancient geothermal pools, preserving the spirit of the pioneers and adding 21st-century amenities.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort — Colorado
Located in the Rocky Mountain Valley, between Denver and Aspen. It is known as the largest thermal pool in the world. Water here stays around +39°C all the time. Also, you can take a train to get here or just drive. If you prefer to drive, take the I-70 motorway. The best timing for Glenwood Hot Springs is spring or early autumn. At this time of year, the air remains fresh, and you can see a picturesque haze over the mountains.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs — Colorado
This place is also located in Colorado, but its atmosphere is different. Vibes here are intimate. You are surrounded by mountains and the pools are scattered through the territory. The temperature in each spring is different, so you can choose the one that is most comfortable for you. You can get there from Eagle County Airport or Denver. Winter is a great season for this place. The steam mixes with the overall snowy picture, and the mountains add a festive atmosphere.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort — Colorado
Hidden in a valley among the Collegiate Peaks mountains. The water in this spring flows directly from the rocks. The springs are divided into natural baths and modern spa areas with geothermal pools. You can get there from Colorado Springs or Denver. It takes about 2.5 hours by car. The first months of autumn are a great time to visit these hot springs.
Castle Hot Springs — Arizona
This is an ancient oasis with a rich history in every sense of the word. Not so far away there were times when the Rockefellers and Roosevelts stayed here for vacation. Getting here is a tricky task though. But as an award, you’ll achieve one of the most picturesque spots. The only way to get there is via a mountain road, which requires extreme caution. And the view is not the only reason why you should get here. The mineral composition of the local waters is well worth the effort. The water temperature reaches 41°C and helps with fatigue and insomnia. Winter and early spring are the best times to visit these places.
Ojo Caliente — New Mexico
One of the oldest thermal resorts in the United States was founded in 1868. Located among sandy canyons, an hour’s drive from Santa Fe. The local natural pools contain water of different compositions, each serving a specific purpose. There are lithium, muscle, ferruginous and soda pools. Some help with skin diseases, while others are responsible for your internal condition. The best time to visit is spring. During this season, you can combine hot springs with hiking to fully enjoy the scenery.
Saratoga Spa State Park — New York
This East Coast classic has been known since the 18th century. It is a resort town that will appeal to those who like to stay in the hustle and bustle of the city even on holiday. You can get there by train from New York in three hours. Here, thermal baths neighbour galleries, parks and vintage hotels. This helps you stay connected to the world while taking time for your own health. Summer and autumn are considered the most favourable seasons.
Chico Hot Springs — Montana
This is a small hotel hot springs at the foot of Yellowstone. It can be reached from Bozeman in an hour by car, and the heart of this resort is its hot springs. It is good at any time of the year, both in winter and summer. It all depends on what you prefer: snow-covered streets or a sultry safari.
Homestead Crater — Utah
A unique geothermal dome where you can swim or dive right under the limestone arch. The water temperature here is +33°C all year round. Located in Midway, near Park City. You can get inside through a small tunnel. It is best to visit in winter, as you will be able to experience the full immersion from the frosty world into eternal summer.
Crystal Hot Springs — Utah
This hot spring spa is one of the oldest ones in Utah. Salty mineral water from here is known for its healing properties. People from the different map spots are coming here to combat skin diseases and dryness. The place is located near Salt Lake City. It takes about an hour to get from there. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. At this time of year, the water temperature contrasts with the cool air.
Murrieta Hot Springs — California
This 1920s hot springs hotel has recently been renovated. Located in Southern California, it combines Spanish Revival architecture with a modern wellness approach. It can be reached from Los Angeles in an hour and a half. In addition to transporting you to another century, this place offers more than 49 pools with healing water, saunas and spa treatments. It is a good place to visit all year round, but if you are not a big fan of intense heat, choose early spring for your holiday.
Chena Hot Springs — Alaska
If the previous place did not impress you, then this one definitely will. This is a unique hot spring where you can see the northern lights. The springs are located an hour’s drive from Fairbanks. In winter, the air temperature can drop to -30°C, but the water remains warm. The huge pool created by nature contains beneficial minerals and is an amazing place where hot water and permafrost coexist.
Best Wild & Natural Hot Springs in the US
If you are tired of the urban jungle let’s have a little expedition to the wild hot springs. Here you can escape from reality and dive into the surreal landscapes. These are the best natural hot springs made by flora itself. Here you can find the new edges of your inner self and recover from busy cities.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs — Colorado
Hidden in Colorado’s forests and near Steamboat Springs, this resort park has a glorious view and landscape. There are a few pools separated from each other by the natural rock wall. The hot spring is rich in minerals and helps treat joints. An important thing to mention is the travel point. The road to the springs goes through mountain trails so you have to be prepared. It will be difficult to drive there in a regular car in winter, so it is better to visit in spring or summer.
Umpqua Hot Springs — Oregon
Remember those stones cut in half with iridescent crystals inside? Now imagine that such a stone was enlarged and turned into a pool. That’s how Umpqua Hot Springs looks. Eight pools are located on a cliff overlooking the North Umpqua River. Also, one lower pool is located in a beautiful grotto directly on the riverbank. Fans and connoisseurs of this mineral spring advise visiting in the morning or late afternoon. This timing is the best to enjoy the relaxing and warming effects of the mineral water while avoiding overheating from the sun’s rays.
Lava Hot Springs — Idaho
This spring is located in a small town with a series of natural baths along the Prontius River. And centuries ago a gigantic volcanic eruption occurred here, that’s how the place was created. The local water is rich in calcium and magnesium. It helps to improve blood circulation and relax muscles. The most comfortable time to visit is spring and summer.
Benefits of Visiting Hot Springs
As you can see, there are quite a few options for recreation. But what are the benefits of hot springs and why are they better than, say, a water park? Here are some of the advantages of hot water:
- Water pressure improves blood circulation and thus stimulates the renewal of the entire body.
- The content of minerals such as magnesium and lithium reduces stress levels. They are also excellent at relieving anxiety.
- Silicon and sulphur help soften the skin and improve its elasticity. They are especially useful for skin diseases, as they work to restore the epidermis.
- They are an indispensable addition to your workout routine. They are excellent for relaxing muscles.
- Such procedures also improve the quality of your sleep and reduce cortisol levels in the blood.
- Due to mineralisation, hot springs are excellent for weight loss, as they work on the metabolism.
- This is a great way to disconnect from the noise of the outside world and focus on your feelings. This therapy allows you to hear yourself and renew yourself.
Tips for Visiting Hot Springs
In order to get only pleasant emotions from spending time in hot springs, it is important to take a few tips into account. This will help you to stay in these places most effectively and get the most benefit for yourself.
What to Pack
If you want to have a positive experience from the hot springs adventure, you have to be prepared for it. Every spot we mentioned is different so at first choose the place you’d love to visit and search for as much info about it as possible. There are a few standard things to take like a swimsuit or slippers. But also it’s worth it to understand the area in which your hot spring is located. Do not forget warm clothes if your hot spring is located in the mountains and snow. Or, conversely, bring SPF to avoid sunburn, as the sun can be more aggressive in the mountains. Let’s summarise the essential items:
- Towel,
- Swimsuit,
- Slippers,
- Sunscreen or warm clothes,
- Bottle of water,
- Specified shoes if you are also going camping or hiking,
- Map so you will not get lost.
Best Time to Visit
The best seasons to visit such places are autumn and winter, especially if it is your first time visiting hot springs. This time of year allows you to fully experience the warmth of the water while breathing in the clean, fresh air.
Safety Tips
It is important to remember your safety. Do not immerse yourself in water above +42°C. Do not drink alcohol for at least half an hour before visiting the springs. Listen carefully to your body and if you feel dizzy, get out immediately.
Also, try to use cosmetics as little as possible. Remember that hot springs are living ecosystems and must not be polluted.
To sum up
Visiting hot springs will not leave you indifferent. It is a special practice that cleanses both the soul and the body. They have a great effect on the skin and joints, help relax muscles and enrich the body with minerals. In addition, this way you can get acquainted with natural phenomena that are completely new to you. Such trips are definitely worth the time and sometimes the difficult journey to get there. In this article, we have travelled from the spa resorts of Colorado and Arizona to the wild terraces of Oregon and the icy pools of Alaska. Each of them is unique in its own way and can provide an unforgettable experience.
If you decide to go on such a trip:
- Research the market and choose the hot spring that suits you best.
- Respect nature. Do not leave any rubbish behind.
- Listen to your body. It will tell you how much heat it needs.
- Don’t forget the basic rules of hygiene, such as taking a shower before entering the hot spring itself.
- Choose a place that suits your goals and carefully study what minerals are found in a particular place if your main goal is treatment.
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