After a long day of hiking, there’s nothing more rewarding than sinking into a hot spring, letting the warm water melt away the soreness in your muscles while you soak in breathtaking natural beauty. Imagine the world fading away as you float in crystal-clear pools, surrounded by mountains, rivers, or forests—a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re chasing that post-hike bliss or seeking a remote escape, the perfect hot spring soak is waiting for you. Ready to discover your next unforgettable adventure? Let’s dive into the best hikes where nature’s healing waters await!
1. Conundrum Hot Springs, Colorado
Tucked away in the stunning Elk Mountains near Aspen, Conundrum Hot Springs is a backcountry paradise that rewards hikers with breathtaking alpine views and a luxurious soak at 11,200 feet. Getting there isn’t exactly a walk in the park—it’s an 8.5-mile trek (one way), but every step is worth it. The trail winds through aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and rugged mountain terrain, creating a picture-perfect Colorado adventure.
But the real magic happens when you reach the springs. Imagine easing into a steaming natural pool with a jaw-dropping view of snow-capped peaks all around you. The water stays around 100°F, making it the perfect place to soak sore muscles after the long hike. If you’re up for it, camping overnight is a must—the starry night sky here is unreal. Just remember, because it’s such a popular spot, you’ll need to reserve a permit in advance.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: July to September (snow-free and ideal conditions)
- Trail Length: 17 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Hard (steep and long but manageable with proper pacing)
- Permit Required? Yes (backcountry permit required)
- Pro Tip: Go midweek to avoid crowds and pack in everything you need—this is a true wilderness experience.
2. Goldbug Hot Springs, Idaho
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Idaho’s backcountry, Goldbug Hot Springs is it. This spot offers several natural rock pools perched along a cascading mountain creek, and the water is a toasty 113°F at the source. The 2-mile hike in is short but steep, with the last section being a bit of a scramble over rocky terrain—but trust me, the views at the top are worth every ounce of effort.
What makes Goldbug so special is the setting. The pools are terraced into the mountainside, offering a soak with a view of the Salmon River Valley below. If you time your visit for sunrise or sunset, you’ll witness an explosion of colors over the hills—it’s one of those moments that make you forget your phone exists. And because this hike isn’t as well-known as some others, you might even get a pool to yourself if you go early in the morning.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring & Fall (avoids the summer heat but not too cold)
- Trail Length: 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep in sections)
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Wear good hiking shoes—the last section is rocky and slick near the water.
3. Strawberry Hot Springs via Hot Springs Trail, Colorado
A hike leading to a hot spring spa? Yes, please! The Strawberry Hot Springs trail in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This 6-mile round-trip hike takes you through forests, over creeks, and up gentle inclines before leading to one of the most stunning hot springs in the Rockies.
Unlike most backcountry springs, Strawberry Hot Springs is well-maintained, featuring stone-lined pools with temperatures ranging from 102°F to 106°F. The water is naturally rich in minerals, so a soak here feels like a spa treatment in the middle of nature. If you go after dark, be prepared for a bit of a surprise—clothing is optional at night! It’s a quirky tradition that keeps things interesting.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Year-round (each season offers a unique experience)
- Trail Length: 6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (manageable for most hikers)
- Permit Required? No, but there is an entrance fee
- Pro Tip: Winter hikes here are magical—just be prepared for snow!
4. Boiling River Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone is famous for Old Faithful and colorful hot springs, but did you know you can soak in one? Boiling River Hot Springs is one of the few places where a hot geothermal spring flows into a cool river, creating natural “hot tubs.” Unlike most on this list, this one’s an easy 1.25-mile walk, making it perfect for families or those who aren’t looking for an intense hike.
Once you arrive, you’ll find a mix of warm and cool spots, depending on where you settle in the river. It’s a weird but wonderful experience—some areas are scaldingly hot, while others are refreshingly cool. It’s like nature’s own version of a temperature-controlled spa! Just be mindful that this area is seasonal and can be closed due to strong currents or dangerous temperatures in winter.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Late summer & fall (safer water levels)
- Trail Length: 2.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Permit Required? No, but park entrance fees apply
- Pro Tip: Go early in the morning for the best chance at a quiet soak.
5. Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, Idaho
One of Idaho’s most beautiful and accessible hot springs, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs sits along the Lochsa River, offering crystal-clear pools and waterfall-fed hot springs. The 2.6-mile round-trip hike is fairly easy, winding through towering pine forests alongside the river’s edge. If you’re lucky, you might even see wildlife along the way—it’s common to spot elk, deer, or bald eagles here.
What makes this spot stand out is the water clarity and temperature balance. The pools don’t get too hot, staying around 100-104°F, which makes them comfortable for long soaks. It’s a popular spot, so don’t expect solitude unless you arrive early or visit in winter. Speaking of winter—it’s pure magic when the pools are steaming against a snowy backdrop.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Late spring to early fall (for best conditions)
- Trail Length: 2.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Avoid weekends if you want a quieter soak.
6. Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon
Nestled along the Umpqua River in the lush Umpqua National Forest, Umpqua Hot Springs is like something out of a dream. Picture this: hot spring pools lined with rocks, all positioned right above the river, where the steam rises gently in the cool morning air. The trail is short—just 1 mile each way– but it’s packed with scenic views and a tranquil ambiance that makes you forget the outside world.
The water here is soothing, staying around 104°F, and there are several pools to choose from, each with its charm. After a good soak, you’ll find yourself relaxed and recharged, ready for whatever the rest of your Oregon adventure holds. However, do note that this hot spring can get crowded, especially during the warmer months. For those looking to escape the crowds, try visiting in the off-season for a more intimate experience.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and Fall (for quieter visits and comfortable weather)
- Trail Length: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Bring your swimsuit, but expect to be up close with nature—this spot is a favorite for clothing-optional visitors.
7. Bagby Hot Springs, Oregon
Tucked away in the Mount Hood National Forest, Bagby Hot Springs is a haven for nature lovers looking to unwind. The 3-mile hike to reach the springs might not be as intense as some others, but it offers an adventure through dense forests and moss-covered trees. Along the way, you’ll feel the tension melt away as the sounds of the wild Oregon woods surround you.
At the springs, you’ll find wooden tubs fed by the naturally hot mineral waters—private and rustic, providing a unique experience. The water temperature ranges from 98°F to 104°F, so whether you want a warmer soak or something more refreshing, you’ll find your sweet spot. The hot springs are particularly magical in the fall and spring, when the foliage is at its peak.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring & Fall (avoid the summer crowds)
- Trail Length: 3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit Required? Yes (there is a small fee for access)
- Pro Tip: Don’t forget a towel and a good book for a long, relaxing soak.
8. Trail Creek Hot Springs, Idaho
Trail Creek Hot Springs offers a perfect blend of solitude and adventure. Located in the Sawtooth National Forest, this natural gem requires a 4.5-mile hike that leads you along a picturesque creek, over logs, and through the rugged Idaho wilderness. But as you approach the springs, the reward is worth it—natural pools that look like something straight out of a movie set.
What makes Trail Creek stand out is the peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel. You won’t find huge crowds here—just a few other adventurers looking to soak in serenity. The water temperature hovers around 100°F to 103°F, making it the perfect spot to spend a few hours relaxing and reflecting on the hike you just conquered.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Summer (the wildflowers are stunning)
- Trail Length: 4.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Be prepared to go off-trail a bit—this is a backcountry experience.
9. Kern River Hot Springs, California
If you’re looking for a hot spring with a wilder, more adventurous vibe, look no further than Kern River Hot Springs in the Sierra Nevada. The hike to these springs isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s a challenging trek that requires some scrambling and navigating through rough terrain. But once you get there, the reward is nothing short of spectacular.
The hot springs are tucked right next to the Kern River, with water temperatures hovering around 102°F to 104°F, providing a perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation after the strenuous hike. The views of the surrounding mountains, combined with the sound of the rushing river, make it an experience that is both calming and energizing. If you’re after a remote experience that combines natural beauty with a bit of a challenge, Kern River Hot Springs is worth the effort.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Late Spring to Fall (when the trail conditions are safest)
- Trail Length: Varies based on access (can be up to 6 miles round trip)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Bring sturdy footwear—some areas require scrambling and balance over rocks.
10. San Antonio Hot Springs, New Mexico
San Antonio Hot Springs in the Santa Fe National Forest is one of those places that seems like it belongs in an adventure novel. The 3-mile hike winds through stunning scenery, leading you to four natural spring-fed pools, all nestled on a mountainside with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. It’s a great spot to soak and rejuvenate after a challenging day of hiking.
Unlike some of the other springs on this list, San Antonio Hot Springs tends to be a bit more serene. The pools here are a little cooler, with temperatures around 98°F to 102°F, so they’re perfect for an extended soak. The best part? The pools are often empty on weekdays, giving you a peaceful and personal experience.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring to Fall (perfect weather for a hike and soak)
- Trail Length: 3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Go on a weekday for the best chance of a private soak.
11. Jordan Hot Springs, Gila National Forest, New Mexico
If you’re after something a little more remote and rugged, Jordan Hot Springs is the ultimate destination. Tucked away in Gila National Forest, this hike is a real adventure, requiring a bit of preparation. The 9-mile round trip will take you through the wilderness, crossing streams and navigating rocky terrain before reaching the hot springs—making it perfect for experienced hikers.
The Jordan Hot Springs are situated along the Gila River, and the pools here are warm, ranging from 98°F to 102°F. The surrounding environment is wild and beautiful, with dense forests and the Gila Wilderness as your backdrop. It’s a spot that feels like a true escape, providing both a satisfying hike and a tranquil soak.
Quick Info:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and Fall (temperatures are milder)
- Trail Length: 9 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Hard
- Permit Required? No
- Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks—this hike can be long and strenuous.
