Top 11 Hot Springs Near Big Sky Montana
Montana, a land sculpted by glaciers and carved by rushing rivers, whispers secrets beneath its snow-capped peaks and windswept plains. Hidden within this rugged landscape lies a network of natural hot springs, promising relaxation, rejuvenation, and a glimpse into the state's geological history. There are plenty of hot springs near Big Sky Montana for you to enjoy.
From family-friendly resorts nestled amidst vibrant valleys to secluded pools cradled by ancient pines, these geothermal wonders beckon with their warm embrace, offering a unique escape within Big Sky Country.
Hike through the Gallatin National Forest to reach the secluded pools of Elkhorn Hot Springs, or explore the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park, including the iconic Boiling River.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Lolo Hot Springs Resort, a favorite amongst early explorers and Lewis & Clark, or visit Broadwater.
Source: Explore Big Sky
Secret Tips for Savvy Soakers
Escape the crowds: Venture beyond popular spots like Bozeman Hot Springs and explore hidden gems like Chico Hot Springs or Elkhorn Hot Springs.
Embrace the rustic charm: Many springs are tucked away in remote locations. Be prepared for unpaved roads, minimal amenities, and a chance encounter with Montana's diverse wildlife, from bighorn sheep to playful otters.
Pack for adventure: Bring sturdy shoes for hikes, a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Some springs require specific attire like wool blankets for communal soaking.
Respect the locals and wildlife: Be mindful of noise levels and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Leave no trace and pack out all trash.
Be aware of regulations: Check local regulations and follow signage. Some springs have limitations on group size, alcohol consumption, and clothing.
The Best Time to Visit Montana’s Hot Springs
Each season offers its own unique charm at Montana's hot springs:
Spring and fall: Enjoy mild temperatures and vibrant landscapes with fewer crowds.
Summer: Escape the heat and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of popular resorts. Be prepared for larger crowds, especially on weekends.
Winter: Experience the magic of soaking in steaming pools amidst snow-covered mountains at higher-altitude springs like Anaconda Pintler Hot Springs.
Health Benefits of Montana’s Hot Springs
Montana's hot springs are as diverse in their mineral content as they are in their settings. Here's a glimpse into the magic of their waters:
Sulfur: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, sulfur-rich springs like Elkhorn Hot Springs and Jackson Hot Springs can be beneficial for joint pain and skin conditions.
Magnesium: This "relaxation mineral" found in springs like Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness and Lolo Hot Springs Resort can ease muscle tension and promote stress relief.
Silica: The smooth, silky feeling of some springs like Chico Hot Springs comes from silica, which is beneficial for skin health and hair growth.
Lithium: Trace amounts of lithium in springs like Fairmont Hot Springs Resort can have mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects.
Bozeman Hot Springs
Bozeman Hot Springs is a family-friendly destination known for its lively atmosphere and multiple pools. The spring water feeds a variety of soaking options, from a family pool to a more secluded adult pool. We went here during our trip to Yellowstone. It’s very family friendly with both indoor and outdoor pools, lots of places to sit, and no rules on outside foods.
Bozeman Hot Springs is located along Highway 191, along the route to Big Sky Resort. Stay near the springs in Four Corners at Home2 Suites By Hilton with an indoor pool and fitness center.
Bozeman Hot Springs is a highly developed and expansive facility offering a diverse range of soaking experiences across 12 pools, with temperatures varying widely from 57°F to 106°F.
The indoor space also includes a steam room and a dry sauna, perfect for post-soak unwinding. The outdoor pools are a more recent addition, boasting appealing rock fixtures and in-pool lighting, and frequently serve as a venue for public events, including musical performances every Thursday and Sunday, and annual holiday-themed gatherings.
The pools at Bozeman Hot Springs are naturally heated by an underground well and are rich in several beneficial minerals. These include Sodium (136.69 mg/L), Silica (62.89 mg/L), Bicarbonate (46.24 mg/L), Carbonate (23.97 mg/L), Chloride (25.55 mg/L), and Sulfate (129.2 mg/L).
While the popularity can lead to crowds,the well-maintained facilities and convenient location make it a popular choice.
Secret Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, to secure a spot by the pool. Consider visiting during the weekdays for a potentially less crowded experience.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road with ample parking)
Ability to Be Alone: 2 stars (Busy atmosphere, shared pools)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature with multiple pools) Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for muscle relaxation and stress relief)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (The hot springs complex itself offers a variety of pools, a waterslide, and dining options. Additional restaurants and shops are within walking distance in Bozeman)
Elkhorn Hot Springs
Nestled amidst a ponderosa pine forest, Elkhorn Hot Springs offers a tranquil escape. A short hike leads to several rustic soaking pools, each with slightly varying temperatures. The natural setting and designated quiet areas provide opportunities for relaxation and reflection.
Elkhorn Hot Springs is a year-round hot springs resort which offers two outdoor hot mineral pools, a Grecian sauna, a restaurant, and a bar.
This is in the middle of nowhere, but you can camp in the National Forest. If you want something a little more comfortable try the Fairbridge Inn 30 minutes away in Dillon with indoor pool and a fitness center and a free hot breakfast.
No fee is charged for trail usage. Trails are groomed weekly and rental equipment is available. Trails are located in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.
Secret Tip: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the creek after your soak. Bring comfortable shoes for the short hike to the pools.
Water Quality: 5 stars (Crystal clear, naturally filtered)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short, scenic hike on a well-maintained trail)
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars (Larger soaking pools with designated quiet areas)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature with slight variations between pools)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for joint pain and skin conditions)
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (Limited amenities near the hot springs, restaurants and shops require a drive to Clinton)
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is a sprawling complex offering a variety of soaking experiences. The resort features indoor and outdoor pools with varying temperatures, a water slide, and a lazy river. While the large crowds can be overwhelming, the extensive amenities, on-site dining, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great choice for a fun and relaxing getaway.
Both indoor and outdoor pools are open only to registered overnight guests staying at the resort or condominium association and pool and golf members. Guests staying at the Fairmont RV Park and Chalets may use the pool for a daily fee, with proper credentials. Pools are open from 7am-10pm daily.
There are two oversized Olympic Swimming Pools and two Mineral Soaking Pools. One of each located indoors and outdoors. The pools are fed by a virtually unlimited supply of 155-degree natural hot spring water, cooled to various temperatures for comfort and maximum enjoyment.
Secret Tip: Consider booking a stay at the resort during the weekdays for potentially shorter wait times at the pools. If seeking a quieter experience, explore the other hot springs on this list.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road with ample parking)
Ability to Be Alone: 2 stars (Large, shared pools with a busy atmosphere)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for muscle relaxation and joint pain)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Full-service resort with spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and various recreational activities)
Chico Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. The historic property features several soaking pools, some clothing-optional, nestled amidst scenic mountains. The clothing optional pools are not out in the public and when I went with my kids everyone was clothed here. In fact, the place was teeming with kids.
These pools are 100% natural and geothermally heated, maintaining average temperatures of 96°F for the large pool and 103°F for the smaller, hotter pool. While temperatures may fluctuate slightly due to natural elements, cool spring water is added during summer months to ensure comfortable guest temperatures.
The on-site restaurant serves delicious, locally-sourced meals, and yoga classes are offered for an extra dose of relaxation. While there can be moderate crowds, the variety of pools and clothing-optional areas allow for finding a comfortable spot to soak.
Chico offers a variety of lodging options including rooms in their historic lodge, cottages, chalets, additional lodges, or you can rent one of their cabins for larger groups. You can even stay in an old train caboose. Chico Hot Springs offers an impressive and diverse array of on-site lodging options to suit various preferences. These include charming historic rooms in the Main Lodge (some with shared baths), modern accommodations in Warren's Wing (all with private baths and geothermal heat), the cozy Lower Lodge (with private baths and vaulted ceilings), the scenic Fisherman’s Lodge (with private baths and mountain views), and unique "glamping" experiences at Camp Conestoga (custom-built wagons with modern amenities and a separate bathhouse).
Chico is also close to Gardiner, Montana and the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
The water at Chico Hot Springs is infused with a rich variety of beneficial minerals as it makes its journey through the Earth's core. Notably, it contains silica, which is specifically highlighted for its skin-softening properties. A detailed analysis performed in 1902 by Professor F.W. Clark, Chief of the US General Survey, provides a historical snapshot of its mineral content, including Calcium Carbonate (8.65 parts), Magnesium Carbonate (2.69), Sodium Carbonate (2.74), Sodium Sulfate (4.87), Potassium Chloride (0.83), Sodium Chloride (0.58), and Silica (3.17), with a total solid content of 23.53 parts per 100.
Secret Tip: Book your soaking session online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Consider attending one of the on-site yoga classes to enhance your relaxation experience.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, faint sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short, scenic drive on a paved road)
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars (Multiple pools of varying sizes, some clothing-optional)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature with slight variations between pools)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for stress relief and skin health)
Calcium Carbonate 8.65
Magnesium Carbonate 2.69
Sodium Carbonate 2.74
Sodium Sulfate 4.87
Sodium Chloride .58
Silica 3.17
Total solid contents 23.53
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (Limited amenities on-site, with restaurants and shops requiring a drive to nearby towns)
Quinn’s Hot Spring Resort
Quinn's Hot Springs Resort provides a luxurious escape in Montana's Paradise Valley. The resort features five naturally flowing hot spring pools with varying temperatures, including a designated cold plunge pool.
Guests can enjoy soaking in indoor or outdoor pools, some catering to adults only. The variety of pools, combined with the on-site amenities, make it a great choice for a relaxing getaway.
Stay nearby at a beautiful A-frame home along the Clarks Fork river. With free Wifi, this 3-bedroom vacation home provides a cable flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen with kitchenware.
Secret Tip: Take advantage of the adults-only pools for a quieter soaking experience. Consider booking a stay at the resort for convenient access to the pools and on-site amenities.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Easily accessible by paved road with ample parking)
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars (Multiple pools of varying sizes, some adults-only options)
Water Temperature: 5 stars (Multiple pools with a wide range of temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for muscle relaxation and skin conditions)
Calcium 4 mg/L: Benefits bone and teeth formation, heart rhythm and blood clotting, nerve transmission, foot/leg cramps and helps prevent osteoporosis.
Fluoride 2.27 mg/L: Helps strengthen bones, reduce teeth decay and is good for blood, skin, hair and nails.
Magnesium 0.3 mg/L: Strengthens muscles and is vital to the nervous system. Necessary for proper bone and teeth formation. Helps protect against cardiovascular diseases and lowers high blood pressure.
Potassium 1.7 mg/L: Regulates blood pressure and heart function. Helps control convulsion, migraines, allergies and alcoholism. Promotes faster healing of burns, cuts and bruises.
Sodium 42.6 mg/L: Helps maintain blood pressure levels and assists in controlling mental apathy.
Sulfate 29.5 mg/L: Provides the “Signature Quinn’s Aroma of Authenticity.” Rids the body of toxins and helps with respiratory problems. Promotes healthy hair, nails and prevents skin inflammation and infection.
Silica (amounts vary greatly): Strengthens bones, boosts the immune system and promotes healthy nerves, hair and nails. It is also used in treating acne and migraines.
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars (On-site restaurant, bar, and lodging options. Additional restaurants and shops within a short drive in Paradise Valley)
Firehole River Swimming Area (Yellowstone National Park)
The Firehole River Swimming Area, nestled within the iconic Yellowstone National Park, offers a truly unique wild soaking experience. Unlike developed hot springs, this is a designated section of the Firehole River where geothermally heated waters naturally mix with the cooler river currents, creating an often-unpredictable but exhilarating swimming opportunity. It stands as one of only two designated swimming holes within Yellowstone, making it a rare chance to interact with the park's thermal features safely. The allure of this raw natural setting comes with inherent risks and unpredictability, demanding a higher degree of personal responsibility and pre-planning from visitors.
While explicit mineral compositions for the Firehole River itself are not detailed in the provided information, it is understood that Yellowstone's thermal features are inherently mineral-rich. However, safety is of utmost importance here, contrasting sharply with commercial spas. Swimming or soaking in most Yellowstone hot springs is strictly prohibited due to extreme temperatures and the thin, hazardous crusts surrounding the features, which can cause severe or fatal burns. The Firehole River Swimming Area is a rare exception, but visitors must adhere to stringent regulations: no food, drink, or alcohol are permitted, and the use of soap, shampoo, or any other substances (even biodegradable ones) is strictly prohibited to protect the delicate ecosystem. Climbing, diving, or jumping from cliffs or trees is also forbidden, and rafts or water toys are not allowed. Furthermore, access is highly seasonal; the river is frequently closed until mid-summer due to high water levels and strong currents, and in years with significant snowpack and runoff, the area may remain closed for the entire season. Visitors are strongly advised to check current conditions before planning a visit, and life jackets are recommended. The water quality here is defined by its natural, unmanaged conditions rather than spa-level clarity.
As Firehole River is located within Yellowstone National Park, lodging options are available at various park lodges and cabins, though not directly adjacent to the swimming area. Notable options include Old Faithful Lodge and Cabins , Canyon Lodge & Cabins , Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins , and Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins are also situated within the park. These accommodations range from rustic cabins with shared facilities to more comfortable hotel rooms. The range of activities within the expansive park is vast, encompassing exploration of iconic geysers like Old Faithful , other diverse thermal features such as the Upper Geyser Basin, Black Sand Basin, and Biscuit Basin , extensive wildlife viewing opportunities, numerous hiking trails, and various guided tours (including snowcoach, snowmobile, and bus tours, depending on the season).
Boiling River (Yellowstone National Park)
Boiling River presents another exceptional natural swimming opportunity within Yellowstone National Park. This remarkable spot is where a stream of scalding hot water, originating from Yellowstone's hydrothermal features and emerging at over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (ranging from 113 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit), merges with the significantly colder waters of the Gardner River. This creates a unique, blended pool where visitors can actively seek and find their ideal temperature by shifting their position a few inches toward or away from the hot stream. This interactive and adventurous element to the soaking experience is a key draw, allowing for a personalized temperature control within a wild setting. It is located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area, near the park's north entrance.
While a detailed mineral analysis specifically for Boiling River is not provided, its origin from Yellowstone's hydrothermal features implies a mineral-rich composition. However, critical safety warnings are paramount due to the extreme nature of the water. The hot stream itself is dangerously hot, and direct entry can cause immediate and severe burns. Visitors are explicitly warned against submerging their heads or inhaling thermal steam, as the water has been shown to support organisms that can cause serious skin rashes, infections, and potentially fatal conditions like Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis and Legionnaire's disease. All visitors swim at their own risk. This highlights a critical trade-off for those seeking unique, wild experiences: the allure of raw nature is balanced by significant health risks and strict behavioral limitations. Furthermore, soap (even biodegradable), food, and beverages are strictly prohibited in the hot springs area. Access is seasonal, as the Boiling River is often closed in the spring when the Gardner River experiences dangerous flow levels due to snowmelt runoff.
Similar to the Firehole River Swimming Area, lodging options are available within Yellowstone National Park, with Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins being the closest and most convenient choice. Other park lodges, such as Old Faithful Inn and Canyon Lodge, are also accessible within the vast park. Activities mirror the broader Yellowstone experience: exploring iconic geysers and other thermal features, extensive wildlife viewing (with elk often seen grazing near Mammoth Hot Springs ), numerous hiking trails, and various guided tours (snowcoach, snowmobile, bus tours depending on the season).
Yellowstone Hot Springs
Yellowstone Hot Springs offers a tranquil and serene soaking experience, ideally situated just eight miles north of the North entrance to Yellowstone National Park, within the picturesque Paradise Valley.
Nestled between two majestic mountain ranges and resting on the bank of the Yellowstone River, peace and serenity are the defining characteristics of this location.
The hot springs facility itself offers multiple pools with varying temperatures, including a Hot Pool (103-105°F), a Main Pool (98-100°F), and a Cold Plunge (60-65°F). The design of the pools is specifically catered to relaxation, with depths not suitable for jumping or diving, and a strict "no floating toys" rule, further enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.
The water is abundant in various beneficial minerals, including Silica (SiO2), Boron (B), Lithium (Li), Strontium (Sr), Cesium (Cs), Rubidium (Rb), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Sulfate (SO4), Chloride (Cl), and Potassium (K).
Yellowstone Hot Springs offers convenient on-site lodging, including YHS Cabin Rentals and an RV Park located next to the Yellowstone River. Campers at the RV Park receive a discount for hot springs access, and the park provides amenities such as a 24/7 shower house and laundry facilities, and a WIFI Pavilion.
Norris Hot Springs
Affectionately known as "Water of the Gods," Norris Hot Springs offers a distinctly simple, rustic, yet profoundly authentic soaking experience nestled in the picturesque Madison River Valley. Its centerpiece is a historic wooden pool, continuously filled with clean, clear hot mineral water that bubbles up from the earth's depths at a natural temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
This water is then expertly cooled by a system of sprayers and jets to ensure a "Perfect Soak" in all seasons. A testament to its heritage, the pool is emptied nightly using the original gate valve installed by miners in the 1880s, emphasizing its long-standing tradition and appealing to those who prioritize genuine, less commercialized experiences.
The water's mineral content is widely believed to confer various health-giving benefits. Most notably, it contains lithium, a naturally occurring trace element that forms salts in the body, facilitating essential cellular interactions. A significant advantage for many is the water's very low sulfur content, meaning it has virtually no odor and does not tarnish silver.
Norris Hot Springs offers convenient on-site lodging, primarily catering to campers with 9 full-service RV sites and 4 tent sites. All sites provide scenic views and direct access to the Norris Hot Springs Pool.
Unlimited soaking in the hot springs is available for a nominal fee per camper per day. The 50-Mile Grill restaurant/bar, renowned for its organic and locally sourced menu, and a poolside Snack Bar are just a few steps away from the campsites, providing easy dining options.
Nearby, visitors can explore natural attractions such as the Bear Trap National Recreation Trail and the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, offering additional outdoor adventure. The nearby Sacajawea Hotel also offers "Stay & Soak" packages, providing an alternative lodging option.
White Sulphur Hot Springs
White Sulphur Hot Springs, hosted by the Spa Hot Springs Motel, provides a rejuvenating soaking experience with its three natural hot pools: two outdoor and one indoor.
A key feature of this establishment is its commitment to cleanliness and natural purity; all three pools are proudly drained, cleaned, and refilled every single night with natural mineral water, and no chemicals of any kind are added.
The water, sourced from a 35-foot-deep well, emerges at 130°F and is then circulated through the hotel complex for heating before being cooled to comfortable soaking temperatures: the outdoor pool is typically 98°F, the new outdoor pool is around 103°F, and the smaller indoor plunge pool is maintained at approximately 105°F.
The water at White Sulphur Hot Springs is notably rich in minerals, particularly a high concentration of Sulfur, along with Magnesium and Lithium. A detailed analysis reveals the presence of Chloride (184 ppm), Sulfate (301 ppm), Bicarbonate (830 ppm), Sodium (504 ppm), Potassium (504 ppm), Magnesium (12 ppm), Calcium (45 ppm), Iron (4 ppm), Alumina (4 ppm), and Silica (44 ppm), with trace amounts of Nitrate and Lithium.
For lodging, the Spa Hot Springs Motel offers 24 newer poolside rooms and 12 cabins located across the street. Guests staying at the motel or cabins receive complimentary access to the pools. Rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities like king or queen pillow-top mattresses, microwaves, refrigerators, and flat-screen televisions. Pets are welcome in older section rooms and cabins for an additional fee.
Fall brings out hunters, and winter transforms the area into a hub for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Local stores and restaurants line the streets, and summer events like local rodeos and the Red Ants Pants Music Festival provide additional entertainment.
Potosi Hot Spring
Potosi Hot Springs is described as a very rare private 80-acre hideaway, ideally situated near the adventure hub of Bozeman, Montana, and Yellowstone National Park. It is encircled by the National Forest in the majestic Tobacco Root Mountains.
It is important to note that Potosi Hot Springs is currently closed to reservations, with a re-opening date yet to be determined.
The hot spring features a main pool, which settles at around 93°F, perched on a moss-dripping granite cliff with a stunning canyon view. A spring-warmed walking path connects this to a Finnish wood-fired sauna. Additionally, there is an intimate indoor tub that maintains a temperature of around 102°F.
Potosi's spring water is lauded as some of the purest in the world, being sulfur-free, odorless, and lacking most hard minerals, resulting in a silky smooth, healthy, and safe soaking experience. Due to its purity and impressive flow-through rates, no chemicals are required for treatment or cleaning.
For lodging, Potosi Hot Springs offers four newly constructed custom log cabins, each uniquely themed (Bear, Trout, Elk, and Moose cabins) and equipped with all the amenities of home. These cabins are situated directly on South Willow Creek, providing an abundance of fishing, hiking, biking, and ATV trails right outside the door. The resort also features organic gourmet dining and a variety of massage and spa therapies, including a creekside wood-fired traditional tipi for deep tissue massages or native herbal wraps.
