For thousands of years, people have believed that the mineral-rich waters of natural hot springs possess healing and restorative qualities. Even if that’s not actually the case, there’s no denying that a soak in a hot spring can feel luxurious. Fortunately, North America has thousands of hot springs, many of which are safe for people to enter. Following are 12 of the best of them.
1. Chena Hot Springs– Fairbanks, Alaska, U.S.
There are activities at this resort all year long, but winter might be the best time to go because you can defy the surrounding snow and bitter cold as you soak in the steamy springs. Plus, with it being dark nearly 24 hours of day that time of year, there’s a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
2. Banff Upper Hot Springs– Alberta, Canada
Banff is a mountain town located amid the peaks and glaciers of the Canadian Rockies, one of the most spectacular settings in North America. These springs are part of Banff National Park.
3. Radium Hot Springs– British Columbia, Canada
Located west of Kootenay National Park in the shadow of the Canadian Rockies, these springs have two pools to offer. The first is kept at a relatively mild temperature of about 80 F most of the time, and the other gets up to around 102 F.
4. Boiling River– Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, U.S.
Although beautiful, most thermal features in Yellowstone are so hot that they’re dangerous or deadly for people. Boiling River is an exception. It’s a flow of water from the terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs into the Gardiner River. The flow itself is too hot to enter, but where it spills into the river, you can enjoy hot spots while surrounded by a cold mountain stream.
5. Granite Hot Springs– Wyoming, U.S.
The developed outdoor pools at this hot spring just above Granite Falls in the Bridger National Forest have great views, but here’s a little insider tip. Just below the falls, on the other side of Granite Creek, a hot spring spills its water down a cliff, forming pools next to the creek. Get cozy and enjoy the sights and sounds of the falls without paying a cent.
6. Hot Springs State Park– Thermopolis, Wyoming, U.S.
Meaning “hot city” in Ancient Greek, Thermopolis and its surrounding area have several hot springs and pools, and many you can access for free. There are also great opportunities for viewing wildlife and ancient petroglyphs.
7. Hot Springs National Park– Arkansas, U.S.
When an entire national park is named for its hot springs, you know it’s a top place to go. Here, there’s an opportunity to see hot springs in their natural state and to soak in one of the developed facilities along Bathhouse Row.
8. Travertine Hot Springs– Bridgeport, California, U.S.
Bridgeport sits at the feet of the majestic eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, and because it’s a bit north of the Mount Whitney-Yosemite corridor, it’s not as busy as that area. Just outside of town, there are several mineral-rich springs forming travertine pools and terraces framing views of the mountains. And it’s free to visit!
9. The Crater– Midway, Utah, U.S.
Found on a privately owned resort in Midway near Park City, the Crater has been active for thousands of years. Cave-like walls and a limestone dome lend an otherworldly feel to this spring that’s deep enough in places for scuba diving. Bonus: In winter, the ice creations in the cave are worth a trip by themselves!
10. Glenwood Springs– Colorado, U.S.
Glenwood Springs is an outstanding gateway to all kinds of outdoor activities, including enjoying the many hot springs around. At Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, you’ll find the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool.
11. Hierve De Agua– Oaxaca, Mexico
Set high in the mountains, these hot springs are a beautiful and popular escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The setting is entirely natural, and mineral-laden waterfalls and spectacular rock formations contribute to the stunning scene.
12. Grutas Tolantongo Hot Springs– Hidalgo, Mexico
The large, beautiful hot springs here are deservedly popular, attracting locals and tourists alike. With campgrounds and cabins available from the property, they’re also easy and comfortable to visit.
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Best Place to See the Grand Canyon Sunrise at South Rim
If you’re wondering where the best place to see the Grand Canyon sunrise at South Rim is, you’re not alone. With more than six million visitors to the national park each year, there are plenty of people trying to find the best place to see the show.
And what a show it is! Mother Nature does not disappoint. It was easily one of the most memorable sunrises we’ve ever seen! There are some things you should know before you go, though, and we’ll do our best to answer all your questions for you.
This article was produced by Our Woven Journey. Featured Image Tom Wang/Shutterstock
Robert Sihler is an educator, freelance writer, and rock climbing guide and instructor living with his family in Driftwood, Texas. In his spare time, he enjoys reading fiction, streaming films, completing crossword puzzles, and rock climbing. When he goes on vacation, he likes to visit the mountains of the West and climb remote, obscure peaks that have seen few or no prior ascents.