12 Best Hot Springs Trips For February in the U.S.
If you’ve ever dreamed of soaking in natural hot springs while the cold air surrounds you, now’s your chance. These serene locations are ideal for escaping the winter chill and reconnecting with nature. Whether you want a peaceful mountain escape or a desert soak under the stars, these spots are worth considering.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Steamboat Springs is a well-known destination in the heart of the Rockies, offering a blend of warm mineral springs and cold, crisp mountain air. The area is home to several natural hot springs, including the Old Town Hot Springs, which features a variety of pools with different temperatures. Soaking here provides not only relaxation but also beautiful views of the Yampa River and snow-capped peaks. The area is perfect for visitors seeking a quiet retreat or a place to unwind after a day of outdoor activities like skiing or snowshoeing.
Old Town Hot Springs offers an authentic, laid-back experience, making it a local favorite. The facility also includes a spa and fitness center, offering a range of services for those wanting a complete wellness experience. The water in the springs is rich in minerals and is said to help with relaxation and stress relief. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, Steamboat Springs’ hot springs are an ideal way to experience the combination of warmth and winter wonder.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs National Park is a stunning blend of natural beauty and historic charm. The area is home to the famous Bathhouse Row, where visitors can still soak in the mineral-rich waters that have drawn people to the region for centuries. The park offers a wide range of hot springs that vary in temperature, making it a perfect place for both a quick soak and a long, relaxing dip. Visitors can enjoy the cold mountain air while bathing in the warm waters that flow from deep within the earth.
In addition to the hot springs, the park offers scenic trails and an opportunity to explore the rich history of the area. The bathhouses, some of which have been in operation for over 100 years, offer a glimpse into the past. Visitors can book appointments for professional treatments or simply relax by the springs. Whether you’re interested in relaxation or history, Hot Springs National Park offers a unique experience that combines the best of both worlds.
Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Mammoth Hot Springs is one of the most famous geothermal areas in the United States, located in the heart of Yellowstone National Park. Known for its unique terraces formed by the flow of hot water over mineral-rich rocks, this hot spring area offers a fascinating natural landscape. The spring water here is warm, making it ideal for soaking, while the surrounding landscape provides stunning views of snow-covered valleys and wildlife. The air is crisp, offering a perfect contrast to the heat of the water.
Mammoth Hot Springs is easily accessible from the park’s North Entrance, making it a great stop for visitors to Yellowstone. The area is also home to the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery. While the hot springs here are not for public soaking, the nearby historic bathhouses provide a similar experience. The combination of geothermal features, natural beauty, and historical significance makes Mammoth Hot Springs a must-see destination for any winter traveler.
Sol Duc Hot Springs, Olympic National Park, Washington
Located in the lush Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs is a peaceful retreat surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. The hot springs here are set against the backdrop of rugged wilderness, offering a serene atmosphere for those seeking relaxation. The resort features several mineral-rich pools, each with different temperatures, allowing visitors to soak in the warm waters while taking in the surrounding views of the forest and snow-covered trees. The crisp winter air adds to the experience, making it the perfect winter getaway.
In addition to the hot springs, Sol Duc offers a range of other activities for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the nearby waterfalls. The area’s remote location ensures a quiet, intimate atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind away from the crowds. Whether you’re visiting for the hot springs or the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, Sol Duc is a destination that promises peace and relaxation.
Desert Hot Springs, California
Desert Hot Springs, located just outside of Palm Springs, offers a unique hot spring experience with a stunning desert backdrop. The area is known for its numerous resorts and spas that feature mineral-rich waters from underground aquifers. Visitors can soak in pools with views of the Coachella Valley while enjoying the warm desert air. The combination of hot springs and desert landscape creates a tranquil and rejuvenating environment, perfect for those seeking relaxation in a sunny, warm climate.
The area is also known for its therapeutic waters, which are believed to have healing properties for a variety of ailments. Desert Hot Springs has become a popular destination for those looking to combine wellness treatments with a serene environment. Many resorts offer a variety of spa services, including mud baths, massages, and facials. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Desert Hot Springs offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the California desert.
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
Chena Hot Springs, located about 60 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the most unique hot spring destinations in the world. This geothermal area is known for its outdoor hot springs pools, which allow visitors to soak while surrounded by the stunning Alaskan wilderness. During the winter months, visitors can experience the contrast of the warm waters and the freezing cold air, all while looking out at the snowy landscape. The hot springs here are rich in minerals, making them a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Chena Hot Springs is also known for its ice museum, which is built entirely from ice and snow. Visitors can take a tour of the museum or even enjoy a drink at the ice bar. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy cabins to larger lodges. Whether you’re seeking relaxation in the hot springs or an adventure in the icy surroundings, Chena Hot Springs provides a one-of-a-kind experience.
Banff Upper Hot Springs, Alberta
Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff Upper Hot Springs offers a classic Canadian experience. The hot springs are situated in Banff National Park, where visitors can soak in the warm mineral waters while surrounded by majestic mountains and snowy landscapes. The outdoor pools provide stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Rundle. The cold mountain air and the warmth of the springs create a perfect contrast, offering a unique way to relax and enjoy nature.
Banff Upper Hot Springs is easily accessible from the town of Banff, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The water is naturally heated by geothermal activity deep beneath the earth’s surface, providing a soothing soak for visitors. After soaking, visitors can explore the charming town of Banff, with its boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Whether you’re visiting for the hot springs or the natural beauty of the park, Banff Upper Hot Springs offers an unforgettable experience.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Glenwood Springs, nestled along the Colorado River, is home to the largest hot springs pool in the United States. The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool has been a popular destination for over a century, offering guests the opportunity to soak in natural mineral waters while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The pool’s geothermal water is heated to a comfortable temperature, making it perfect for year-round use. Whether you’re soaking in the pool or enjoying the nearby hot tubs, the experience offers both relaxation and breathtaking scenery.
In addition to the hot springs, Glenwood Springs offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rafting, and skiing during the winter months. The town has a rich history, with the hot springs playing a central role in the area’s development as a resort town. For those looking for a more private experience, the town is also home to several smaller, more intimate hot spring facilities. Glenwood Springs is a perfect destination for those looking for both relaxation and adventure.
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
Iceland is famous for its unique hot spring experiences, and the Blue Lagoon is one of the most iconic. Located near the capital city of Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon offers visitors the chance to soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by a dramatic lava field. The water is known for its healing properties, rich in silica and sulfur, which help to rejuvenate the skin. The cold Icelandic air adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the lagoon, making it an unforgettable experience.
The Blue Lagoon also offers a full range of spa services, including massages, skin treatments, and saunas. Visitors can relax in the lagoon’s various pools, each with different temperatures and features. The location is also close to other geothermal sites in Iceland, such as geysers and hot springs, making it a great starting point for exploring the country’s natural wonders. Whether you’re visiting for relaxation or skincare, the Blue Lagoon offers a unique and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Iceland.
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
White Sulphur Springs, located in the Appalachian Mountains, is home to a rich history of natural hot springs. The area is famous for its mineral-rich waters, which have been used for their therapeutic benefits for centuries. The Greenbrier, a historic resort in the area, features several hot spring baths, offering guests the opportunity to soak in the waters while surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. The town’s serene atmosphere and cold mountain air make it an ideal place for relaxation.
In addition to the hot springs, White Sulphur Springs offers a variety of activities, including hiking and exploring the Greenbrier’s gardens. The resort also offers golf courses, a spa, and fine dining, making it a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and luxury. White Sulphur Springs’ combination of history, natural beauty, and rejuvenating waters makes it a must-visit spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re looking to relax in the springs or explore the area’s rich history, White Sulphur Springs has something for everyone.
Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
Located in southeastern Idaho, Lava Hot Springs is a charming town that’s become famous for its natural hot springs. The town’s geothermal waters flow year-round, offering visitors a warm and relaxing experience even in the cold winter months. The hot springs are rich in minerals, and soaking in the pools provides relief for sore muscles and stress. With the surrounding mountains and rivers, Lava Hot Springs offers stunning views that make the soak even more enjoyable.
The area is also known for its outdoor activities, including rafting, hiking, and winter sports. Lava Hot Springs offers several hot spring pools, each with a unique temperature range, so visitors can choose the perfect soak for their needs. Whether you’re soaking in the public pools or enjoying a private experience at a resort, Lava Hot Springs provides a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. The combination of natural beauty, geothermal waters, and outdoor activities makes Lava Hot Springs a top choice for travelers.
Bisbee Hot Springs, Arizona
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Arizona, Bisbee Hot Springs is a hidden gem that offers a quiet, peaceful escape. The hot springs here are known for their mineral-rich waters, which are said to help with everything from skin rejuvenation to muscle relaxation. The springs are surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, offering visitors a chance to soak in warm water while taking in breathtaking views of the desert landscape. The clear, crisp air of the desert provides the perfect contrast to the warmth of the water.
In addition to soaking in the springs, visitors can explore the charming town of Bisbee. The town is known for its historic buildings, art galleries, and unique shops. Bisbee Hot Springs offers a tranquil and secluded experience, making it an ideal place to unwind. Whether you’re soaking in the natural pools or exploring the area, Bisbee provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.