The Best Hot Springs in America for a Scenic Soak
Stateside Hot Springs
Soak in the View at These Geo-Thermal Hot Spots
Sure, Iceland's Blue Lagoon may get all the glory on Instagram—but why hop across the pond when you can get your spa-fix stateside? From soothing soaking pools in Fairbanks, Alaska to steaming waterfalls in Lowman, Idaho, these all-American hot springs are just what we need to thaw into Spring.
Fifth Water Hot Springs - Diamond Fork, Utah
Diamond Fork, Utah
Three dreamy waterfalls accompany the soaking pools at Utah’s Fifth Water Hot Springs. Search out the share-worthy second waterfall on this 5.3-mile roundtrip hike, with multiple cascading tiers and closeby steaming streams to pause and take in the forested scenery.
Dunton Hot Springs
Dolores, Colorado
Perched at an elevation of 8,600 feet in Colorado's San Juan Mountains, this all-inclusive resort in the old mining town of Dunton gives you access to five natural hot springs—each ranging in temperature from 85 degrees to a steamy 106 degrees Fahrenheit. The romance of this retreat lies in its seclusion, surrounded by fervent green mountains, ages-old pine trees and some of the best hiking trails from May to October.
Travertine Hot Springs
Bridgeport, California
Become one with nature at California’s Travertine Hot Springs, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains—the site is free of charge and clothing optional. Its accessible location, just south of Bridgeport, means this is a popular stop for locals and traveling campers alike—and its picturesque blue pools make for a brag on any Instagram page.
Breitenbush Hot Springs
Detroit, Oregon
The holistic retreat set up around these natural springs aims to help people “renew and evolve in ways they never imagined.” And with 20 miles of hiking trails, yoga and meditation programs, and a vegetarian buffet, we have no doubt that a soak and stay at this Willamette Valley sanctuary will do just that.
Riverbend Hot Springs
Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
Set on the banks of the Rio Grande River, these mineral-rich waters were once considered sacred by the Apache and Mimbres tribes of southern New Mexico. Now, you can experience the springs’ same calming benefits with views of Turtleback Mountain or a starry sky to set the mood—soak by the hour or overnight for a full-day dip.
Chena Hot Springs
Fairbanks, Alaska
While winters at Chena Hot Springs can mean a dancing Aurora Borealis overhead, summertime offers everything from adventure (dog cart rides, guided ATV tours) to spa-level comforts (therapeutic massages, 90-degree soaks in the natural pools). Whichever you choose, be sure to stop by the year-round ice museum complete with ice bar and frozen sculptures.
Kirkham Hot Springs
Lowman, Idaho
These geothermal pools on the South Fork of the Payette River feel just rustic enough. Walk down the small wooden staircase to hot spots of varying temps, and be ready to say hello to fellow adventurers enjoying this stop off the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. Outdoors lovers can set up their tent at the nearby campground, open from May 24 to September 5.
