Did you know that there are many natural hot springs in the USA? Bathing in these mineral rich waters can be fantastic for both your physical and mental health.
Indigenous peoples have enjoyed the benefits of hot springs for centuries. There are three types of hot springs: thermal, geothermal and hydrothermal springs. The water in hot springs takes their energy from geothermal processes within the earth.
When hot springs are located in volcanic zones the water is heated by rocks in contact with molten magma. Hot springs can also be located in non-volcanic areas where the heat comes from deep in the earth’s crust.
Today, quite a few hotels and resorts have been built around hot springs, allowing for a more luxurious hot springs experience. However, there are still many hot spring pools that are in national parks and other locations that can be experienced at no charge in their natural state.
The western states of America in particular are known for their hot springs – we’ve got many of them covered in this article including Oregon, New Mexico, Nevada and more.
Here 10 fantastic places to experience hot springs in the USA.
10 Best Places for Hot Springs in the USA
Table of Contents
- 10 Best Places for Hot Springs in the USA
- 15 Best Northern California Hot Springs
- 9 Best Hot Springs in Washington State
- 13 Best Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs, Colorado
- 13 Hot Springs Oregon
- 29 Fantastic Idaho Hot Springs
- 29 Incredible Hot Springs of New Mexico
- 29 Best Hot Springs in Montana
- 3 Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Radium Hot Springs Colorado: Your Complete Guide
15 Best Northern California Hot Springs
Northern California, or NorCal as it’s affectionately known, is full of attractions as well as natural splendours that attract hordes of visitors yearly. This includes the majestic Yosemite National Park, scenic mountains, magnificent beaches, and rejuvenating hot springs.
There are free natural hot springs scattered throughout NorCal, as well as others found in wellness retreats. The hot springs boast mineral-rich waters, which are said to have healing and calming properties.
This is why it’s important to choose only the best hot springs, and I’ve made that choice easier for you. These are the best Northern California hot springs you must visit to get rejuvenated to the max.
9 Best Hot Springs in Washington State
Washington State is bountiful when it comes to hot springs where you can relax and take a load off. Whether you’re hopping into a man-made mineral bath or natural hot springs in Washington’s gorgeous forests, there is so much to enjoy and discover in this great state.
Washington is easily one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., so why not visit some of its incredible hot springs while you explore the Evergreen State?
This post will cover some of the most popular hot springs in Washington, from fancy resorts to hidden gems in nature. You’re bound to fall in love with these Washington State hot springs.
13 Best Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs, Colorado
If you’re looking to visit a small town in one of the most beautiful U.S. states, Pagosa Springs in Colorado is a popular spot to unwind in. Situated on the San Juan River, this town is laid back, filled with outdoor fun, and beautiful to boot. It’s also home to a world-record-winning hot spring!
If you’re on the hunt for the best hot springs in Pagosa Springs, look no further. This post will guide you through some of the most popular springs where you can find your zen on a tranquil Colorado vacation.
13 Hot Springs Oregon
Oregon is one of the most beautiful states in the US. Set in the Pacific Northwest, the landscape is full of diversity. From mountain ranges to vast valleys and desert plateau, it’s an outdoor haven.
Hot springs are found dotted throughout these beautiful regions. Rich with minerals, the heated groundwater allows visitors to enjoy an incredible soak in nature. They come in many different shapes and sizes and are either free to use or accessible for a very small fee.
If you’re looking for the best soaking spots in the state, here are the top 13 hot springs in Oregon that will take your breath away.
29 Fantastic Idaho Hot Springs
If you’re looking for the best Idaho hot springs you’ve come to the right place. Idaho is abundant with incredible natural hot springs for you to explore, and we’re going to guide you through the best of the best. After reading this post, you’ll be able to plan an unforgettable hot-spring hopping holiday.
29 Incredible Hot Springs of New Mexico
Did you know that New Mexico is plentiful with natural geothermal hot springs, hot springs spas, and resorts? While many people have heard of the hot springs in Idaho, you may not be aware of the abundance of hot springs in New Mexico’s forests, hotels, lodges, and resorts.
You can find incredible spa resorts there, not to mention natural hot spring pools tucked away in New Mexico’s national forests. This post will cover the 29 best hot springs of New Mexico to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
29 Best Hot Springs in Montana
When we think of Montana, it’s cabins, skiing, and the great wilderness that usually come to mind. Montana is also one of those states that remind us of cowboys, westerns, driving cattle, and big stretches of wilderness. But Montana, one of the USA’s most beautiful states, also boasts a wealth of natural hot springs.
The mineral-rich waters of hot springs have been used for healing and well-being for many centuries. Native American people were among those that would migrate to these natural wonders to rejuvenate both physically and spiritually.
Montana hot springs locations offer resorts and developments around many of its springs. There is also a fair share of unspoiled, undeveloped springs in natural settings to explore as well.
3 Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Colorado doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to natural beauty. There’s a reason why it’s known as one of the most beautiful states in the US.
Located on the northern end of Colorado is Steamboat Springs, also known as “Ski Town, USA” for offering world-class skiing amongst snowy mountains. The Yampa River flows through the heart of this small town, with Mount Werner’s snowy peaks guarding it like a castle wall.
Although Steamboat is a skiers’ sanctuary, many forget the second part of its name (“Springs”). So, I’ve compiled this list of the most irresistible and incredible hot springs in Steamboat Springs, CO.
Radium Hot Springs Colorado: Your Complete Guide
Radium Hot Springs in Colorado is a single pool positioned on a moderately trafficked hiking trail along the frigid Colorado River. However, it is not an anomaly. The geology of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado means there are pools of thermal water to soak in from Radium Hot Springs all the way to the hot springs in Pagosa Springs.
Find out everything you need to know about Radium Hot Springs in my post
I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this hot springs in the USA post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.