As the leaves start to change, the air takes on that familiar autumn chill, and the craving for all things pumpkin hits, another season begins—one I look forward to every year: hot springs season! There is nothing more blissful than cold air surrounding you or snow falling while you soak up the mineral rich waters that abundantly restore peace, tranquility, and warmth.
The West, with its intricate underground geothermal networks, is rich in unique hot springs. (Which is wonderful, considering half of the year we have to face chilly temps!) Some hot springs are accessible only if you are willing to dare a hike. However, others offer simple roadside access or curated resort style amenities.
To conquer the lingering cold, rally the besties for a road trip and head for the hills in chase of the alluring warmth of steamy thermal pools set under open skies. I have a list of personal faves that all have my heart for different reasons! Maybe this is YOUR season to check off your hot springs passport and tour the Mountain West!
Let’s explore, shall we?
1. Diamond Fork Hot Springs
Diamond Fork Hot Springs, also known as Fifth Water Hot Springs, is a local gem, flowing with seasonal beauty and consistently ranking as a crowd favorite. It’s at the top of our bucket list! I’ve hiked to this spot in every season, and each one offers something extraordinary.
In fall, bold colors line the hike through a stunning canyon that follows the river the entire way, while winter offers its own charm with snow-blanketed scenery along the canyon path.
Location and Accessibility
Located about 30 minutes south of Provo, UT, Diamond Fork Hot Springs requires a bit of strategy to enjoy, given its popularity. It’s an all-season, multi-pool experience complete with a pristine waterfall cascading over the river next to the thermal pools, perfect for alternating between hot soaking and cold plunges. The pools cascade downstream, each with varying mineral content and temperatures ranging from 102 to 111 degrees. By adjusting rocks, soakers can control the mix of cold river water in the pools, tailoring the experience to their liking. The setting is magnificent, with the hike itself offering as much beauty as the springs!
Hiking Details
The trail is moderately challenging, with a 2.5-mile steady incline to reach the springs. Sturdy hiking boots are a must, and bringing plenty of water is essential. I also pack a grocery bag or small waterproof bag for my wet swimsuit, as there are no services once you’re on the trail.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to find trash and clothing that people left behind. A grocery sack is helpful for leaving things better than you found them.
Snacks, a small first-aid kit, and layers of clothing are also recommended—especially if hiking early or staying into the evening when temperatures drop.
And remember, it’s a preserved natural area, so bring only non-glass items and be prepared to pack out anything you bring in to help keep the springs clean and beautiful for all.
In winter, the main access gate closes, adding an additional mile to the trail. If you’re hiking in snow or icy conditions, crampons are a helpful addition.
Getting There
- From Salt Lake City, head south on I-15 to the town of Spanish Fork.
- Take exit 257 to get onto US-6E.
- After 11 miles, turn left at mile marker 184 onto Diamond Fork Road.
- Follow this road for 10 miles to reach the signed trailhead parking lot on the right.
Parking is limited, but overflow parking is available ¾ of a mile before the hot springs—worth the walk!
Pro Tip: Timing and Crowds
For a peaceful experience, early morning is the best time to visit, and weekdays are notably quieter than weekends. My personal goal this year is to experience a full moon hike and enjoy these glorious minerals under the moonglow!
2. Meadow Hot Springs
This hidden hot spring, tucked away in the middle of nowhere, is sure to amaze you! It’s one of the most unique hot springs in America—a pristine geothermal wonder on private land, which the owners generously keep open to the public.
Set in a scenic open field, there are two clear-water pools: the larger pool, about 25 feet deep, maintains a comfortable temperature of around 100 degrees, while the smaller pool is slightly cooler and home to small tropical fish that will give you a gentle pedicure if you dip your feet in.
This charming spot, just off the highway, makes for a memorable stop and is perfect for breaking up a trip to St George or Las Vegas.
Getting There
- From Salt Lake City, head south on I-15 toward Fillmore, then take the Meadow exit.
- Turn south on Meadow Main Street and continue through town.
- About 1.5 miles from the freeway, take the first right onto an unmarked dirt road past the last buildings.
- Drive west along this road, crossing over the freeway, and follow it for 4.8 miles.
Parking is available along the side of the road, with just a short walk leading you to the springs.
3. Homestead Crater
The Crater Hot Spring at Homestead Resort in Midway, Utah, offers a unique geothermal experience like no other. Nestled in a 10,000-year-old crater, this hot spring isn’t just for soaking—you can also swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or even take a scuba diving lesson, making it the only warm-water scuba destination in the continental U.S.!
Encased within a 55-foot limestone dome, the Crater features warm, mineral-rich waters that evoke the feeling of bathing in a hidden grotto from Middle Earth. With a constant temperature of 90-96°F, it’s a comfortable year-round retreat perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Planning Your Visit
Interested in adding Homestead Crater to your hot springs bucket list? Be sure to plan ahead! Homestead Resort maintains limited bookings to ensure a quality experience, so reservations are required and tend to fill up quickly, especially during the winter season.
Getting There
Homestead Resort is conveniently located just an hour southeast of Salt Lake City. To reach the resort, take I-80 E and UT-113 from Salt Lake City, and you’ll soon arrive at this unique geothermal getaway.
4. Inlet Hot Springs / Saratoga Springs
For a hot spring closer to home, head to Inlet Hot Springs on the north side of Utah Lake. Though a bit hidden in the weeds behind a park along the lake’s shoreline, it’s worth the search.
The mineral-rich waters are extra hot and attract a local crowd, especially college students (mostly at night), so be prepared for a lively scene and occasional crowds. The area is patrolled, and the park closes at 10 p.m., so plan accordingly. Personally, I can’t think of a better spot to enjoy a winter snowstorm than soaking in this thermal pool!
The adjacent park offers a playground, soccer fields, walking trails, and seasonal restrooms, making it a convenient stop. With easy access and comfortably warm temperatures, this hot spring is popular, so expect to share the experience with others.
Getting There
- From Salt Lake City, head south on I-15 and take exit 282 toward SR-194, 2100 North.
- Turn right onto W 2100 N and drive just over half a mile before turning left onto N 2300 W St.
- Continue for 3.3 miles, then turn right onto Pony Express Pkwy, followed by a left onto N Saratoga Rd.
The hot springs are just a short walk from the parking lot.
5. Crystal Hot Springs
For a truly mineral-rich, therapeutic experience perfect for soothing sore muscles during ski season, look no further than Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville, Utah!
Known for its incredibly high mineral content, Crystal offers a range of hot and cold pools that create a unique, relaxing environment. The hot spring water, naturally heated to around 120°F, is rich in potassium, magnesium, and lithium, making it one of the most mineral-dense hot springs in the world.
Crystal Hot Springs is a fantastic choice for families, offering ample space and variety. Visitors can enjoy a wading pool with a decorative waterfall to sit behind, multiple soaking tubs, a lap pool, and even a waterslide—all complemented by excellent facilities to meet any need!
Getting There
1. Head north on I-15 from Salt Lake City.
2. Take Exit 372 for UT-240, following signs toward Honeyville.
3. Turn right onto UT-240 E/6900 N and continue straight to Crystal Hot Springs (8215 N Hwy 38, Honeyville, UT 84314).
6. Mystic Hot Springs
If you’re dreaming of those Insta-worthy hot spring moments in a clawfoot tub under an open sky, look no further than Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe, UT. This spot combines the ultimate hippie hideaway vibe with mineral-rich springs, creating a truly magical experience.
Accessing the Hot Springs
Whether you want to soak for a few hours with a soaking pass or make it a girls’ getaway in one of their retro glamping buses, Mystic Hot Springs has it all!
Just remember, visits are by reservation only and soaking passes provide a reserved 2-hour time slot, so plan ahead as this popular destination fills up quickly.
The soaking area features two spacious 20×20 pools and five classic cast iron tubs, each big enough for two adults. Keep in mind, you’ll be sharing this dreamy setup with other guests booked in your same time slot, adding to the relaxed community vibe.
Getting There
1. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 south to exit 188 for Scipio.
2. Take Hwy 50 east for about 25 miles to I-70 west.
3. Continue to exit 31 and turn left at the bottom of the off-ramp.
4. Drive 2 miles, then turn right onto Hwy 118.
5. Follow Hwy 118 for 3-4 miles to the center of Monroe.
6. Turn left on 100 North and go up the hill for 5 blocks to reach the big white building at the end of the road.
Get ready for a truly unforgettable soak in this one-of-a-kind spot!
7. Maple Grove Hot Springs
Crossing the border in search of hot springs is well worth the trip! Just two hours from Salt Lake City, you’ll find Maple Grove Hot Springs—a stunning retreat nestled along the Oneida Reservoir.
This romantic spot offers three natural, therapeutic mineral pools ranging from 100 to 112°F and a large, family-friendly swimming pool with temperatures between 95 and 101°F. Maple Grove is perfect for relaxation, offering wellness retreats and events, plus romantic getaways in accommodations that showcase a charming, old-world aesthetic.
Visiting the Hot Springs
Spend the day soaking or stay overnight in one of the many furnished canvas tents, yurts, or cabins. Walk-in tent sites and van sites are also available, making Maple Grove the ideal retreat whether you’re here for a few hours or an entire weekend!
Day passes are available, but if you’re planning to camp, stay in a yurt or cabin, or book any overnight accommodations, be sure to reserve months in advance as they tend to sell out quickly. That said, last-minute cancellations do occur, so it’s worth calling directly to see if you can snag a spot! The hot springs are well-maintained by staff who are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience.
Facilities include showers, restrooms, locker rentals, dressing rooms, a snack bar, and a community kitchen with fire pits for guest use.
Getting There
- To reach Maple Grove, take Hwy 34 north for 21 miles from Preston, or head 15 miles south from Grace to 13800 N Rd.
- Turn onto 13800 N, then make an immediate right onto Maple Grove Rd and follow it south for 3 miles, staying right at the fork.
8. Lava Hot Springs
With a population just under 400, Lava Hot Springs is a charming city along the Portneuf River in eastern Bannock County, Idaho, and part of the Pocatello metropolitan area. This town feels like a mountain “beach town” where time stands still. Known for its relaxing hot pools and a lively river perfect for tubing, Lava has become a pristine family getaway!
In the summer, you’ll see people hauling their inner tubes up and down Main Street, riding the river from the top of town to the bottom before making the walk back up for another round. I love the beauty and variety of this town, where the hot springs serve as the central hub around which everything is built.
The resort offers luxurious mineral pools of all sizes, rentable cabanas, and a beautiful sunken garden encircling one end. Lava Hot Springs is my favorite quick weekend destination, perfect for slowing down and enjoying time with family, friends, or even for a romantic getaway while soaking in mineral pools that feel like an old-world wonder.
Getting There
Lava Hot Springs is conveniently located just 11 miles east off I-15, right between Salt Lake City, Utah, and Yellowstone National Park. It’s only a two-hour drive from downtown Salt Lake City.
430 East Main
Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
Are there any hot springs on your bucket list that I didn’t mention? I’d love to know when you check off some of these! Login and comment below.
Great info and article! Thanks,