EXPLORATION
The Hot Springs Revolution: Why Thermal Baths Are Making a Comeback
Columbia Sportswear’s Ultimate Guide to Recharging in Nature’s Spa
BY: NANCY BOUCHARD
Hot springs are Mother Nature’s way of showing she cares; after tossing mountains, deserts, and rivers our way, she rewards us with a hot bath. These warm water wonders, aka thermal baths, get their heat when groundwater meets the molten heat of magma deep beneath the earth’s crust. When the water eventually bubbles back up, it creates cozy hidden pools, cascading waterfalls and entire rivers of steam. Temperatures range from "You’ll boil your toes" to "Just right for a long soak." The sweet spot is around 99°F to 105°F, perfect for easing the day’s troubles away.
Many of the world’s most legendary hot springs have been soaking up history for millennia. In Bath, England, people have been unwinding in thermal baths since 8,000 BC. By 43 AD, the Romans were building villages around these healing waters. Fast forward a few centuries, and "taking the cure"—a euphemism for retreating to a spa town for the health benefits—became the height of fashion among Europe's nobility. From the 1700s through the early 20th century, spa towns sprang up across Europe and North America. For the past 4,000 years, onsens—public hot baths—have been an essential part of Japanese culture. In North, Central, and South America, indigenous peoples have been enjoying the healing powers of hot springs for over 10,000 years, often using them as neutral ground for meetings or spiritual rituals.
Many of the world’s most legendary hot springs have been soaking up history for millennia. In Bath, England, people have been unwinding in thermal baths since 8,000 BC. By 43 AD, the Romans were building villages around these healing waters. Fast forward a few centuries, and "taking the cure"—a euphemism for retreating to a spa town for the health benefits—became the height of fashion among Europe's nobility. From the 1700s through the early 20th century, spa towns sprang up across Europe and North America. For the past 4,000 years, onsens—public hot baths—have been an essential part of Japanese culture. In North, Central, and South America, indigenous peoples have been enjoying the healing powers of hot springs for over 10,000 years, often using them as neutral ground for meetings or spiritual rituals.
Thermal baths are soothing, but the benefits go beyond relaxation. Soaking in hot mineral water is thought to relieve muscle and joint pain, lower blood pressure, and boost metabolism. Thermal waters, rich in minerals from the surrounding rocks and soil, are credited with tackling everything from acne and psoriasis to respiratory issues. Sulfur and zinc help clear up skin, while calcium supports bones and reduces stress. Magnesium, known for its muscle-relaxing powers, also balances cortisol, easing anxiety and promoting better sleep. Sodium bicarbonate calms itchy skin and reduces inflammation, while silica improves joint health and collagen production. Then there’s iron, which boosts circulation and energy; lithium, a recognized mood stabilizer, and chloride, which keeps your body’s fluid levels in harmony. So, while you shouldn’t stop taking your vitamins, hot springs can be credited for a whole-body reboot.
Jessica Meath, Executive Director of the Hot Springs Association, explains that people use hot springs for a variety of reasons, from relaxation and tranquility to relief from joint pain, arthritis, skin conditions, stress, anxiety, and insomnia. In the U.S., there are approximately 250 developed hot springs. “Recent trends in hot spring development include the addition of cold plunges for contrast therapy and wellness programming, such as aqua yoga, sound therapy, and sleep programs,” Meath notes. She emphasizes the benefit of choosing established hot springs over primitive ones. "Established locations ensure safety and maintain water quality,” explains Meath. “Stewardship is a major concern at many primitive locations. We see more and more popular, unmanaged primitive hot springs being overrun and a consequence of this is increased bacterial contamination in the water as well as the area being trashed by those who do not follow leave no trace principals.” She says that while there’s nothing wrong with secret spots, people need to be careful about their impact. “The beauty of a hot springs visit is no two sites are the same,” concludes Meath. “Whether you're seeking a family adventure or a private soak, each location offers a unique experience, with settings ranging from scenic mountains and rivers to luxurious indoor spas.”
When it comes to hot springs, it's not just about the soak—it’s about the dress code. Always check local guidelines before packing your swimwear. In Japan, most onsens are swim-suit free zones, so you’ll either be au naturel or wrapped in a modest towel. Historically tattoos have been a no-go for Japan’s onsens, but tattoo-friendly pools are on the rise. In France, it’s “Speedo or bust” — generally no baggy trunks are allowed. In Nordic countries and Germany—where there’s a strong culture of naturism--nudity is not uncommon in thermal baths. In the U.S., it’s a mixed bag. The more remote and natural the location, the less likely that swimsuits will be required.
Here are some of our favorite thermal baths in the US and Canada; there are hot springs all over North America, but we’ve included areas where they are most abundant. We’ve kept the secret backcountry places secret; those are best discovered on your own. But for a nudge in the right direction, here’s a link to geothermal activity in the US. When you do explore, just make sure you pay attention to signage—if a hot spring is closed, there’s a reason—and double check temperatures before you hop in.
Jessica Meath, Executive Director of the Hot Springs Association, explains that people use hot springs for a variety of reasons, from relaxation and tranquility to relief from joint pain, arthritis, skin conditions, stress, anxiety, and insomnia. In the U.S., there are approximately 250 developed hot springs. “Recent trends in hot spring development include the addition of cold plunges for contrast therapy and wellness programming, such as aqua yoga, sound therapy, and sleep programs,” Meath notes. She emphasizes the benefit of choosing established hot springs over primitive ones. "Established locations ensure safety and maintain water quality,” explains Meath. “Stewardship is a major concern at many primitive locations. We see more and more popular, unmanaged primitive hot springs being overrun and a consequence of this is increased bacterial contamination in the water as well as the area being trashed by those who do not follow leave no trace principals.” She says that while there’s nothing wrong with secret spots, people need to be careful about their impact. “The beauty of a hot springs visit is no two sites are the same,” concludes Meath. “Whether you're seeking a family adventure or a private soak, each location offers a unique experience, with settings ranging from scenic mountains and rivers to luxurious indoor spas.”
When it comes to hot springs, it's not just about the soak—it’s about the dress code. Always check local guidelines before packing your swimwear. In Japan, most onsens are swim-suit free zones, so you’ll either be au naturel or wrapped in a modest towel. Historically tattoos have been a no-go for Japan’s onsens, but tattoo-friendly pools are on the rise. In France, it’s “Speedo or bust” — generally no baggy trunks are allowed. In Nordic countries and Germany—where there’s a strong culture of naturism--nudity is not uncommon in thermal baths. In the U.S., it’s a mixed bag. The more remote and natural the location, the less likely that swimsuits will be required.
Here are some of our favorite thermal baths in the US and Canada; there are hot springs all over North America, but we’ve included areas where they are most abundant. We’ve kept the secret backcountry places secret; those are best discovered on your own. But for a nudge in the right direction, here’s a link to geothermal activity in the US. When you do explore, just make sure you pay attention to signage—if a hot spring is closed, there’s a reason—and double check temperatures before you hop in.
Colorado
Whether you're after a swanky spa experience or a laid-back soak in the wild, Colorado’s got you covered. The Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop is an 800-mile road trip through the western part of the state, hitting 23 soaking spots, each with its own vibe and mineral magic. Eight geothermal destinations—Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, Ouray, Durango, Pagosa Springs, Saguache County, and Chaffee County—are all focused on getting you into hot water. Glenwood Springs boasts the world’s largest hot springs pool, stretching over 400 feet, plus two cold therapy pools. Or head to Ouray, a tiny mountain town where you can scale a via ferrata or learn to ice climb before unwinding in the public hot pool. In Durango, the Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa has upped the ante with more than 40 thermal pools of all temperatures, perfect for finding your ideal soak after a day of climbing, backpacking, fishing, or skiing.
Oregon
Oregon is a hot spring lover’s dream, thanks to its hundreds of ancient, dormant volcanoes. There are nearly 40 hot springs in the state. Many of the larger thermal baths offer camping, rustic lodging, and even spa services. In Eastern Oregon, Crystal Crane Hot Springs—just 25 miles southeast of Burns--is a desert thermal oasis. It’s the perfect spot to soak away your slings and arrows, but the real magic happens at night when the stargazing is out of this world. In Central Oregon, the newly renovated Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort on the Warm Springs Reservation has multiple pools and filtered mineral-rich waters packed with magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
Wyoming
Wyoming is home to over 1,000 thermal springs, though many are in Yellowstone National Park, where its illegal—and too hot—to enter the water. But there are plenty of other spots across the state to explore. One favorite is Hot Springs State Park in the small town of Thermopolis. Formerly known as The Big Horn Hot Springs State Reserve, this became Wyoming's first state park in 1897. Thanks to an agreement with the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, who sold the land to the federal government, access to the mineral-rich hot springs is free to the public.
California
In Mono County, you can stay at the Inn at Benton Hot Springs, rent a charming historic bungalow, or camp out with your own private hot tub. The town, once a booming silver mining hub in the 1860s, is now a well-preserved slice of the past, thanks to the owners and a conservation easement with the Eastern Sierra Land Trust and Historic Benton Hot Springs Non-Profit. A dozen natural hot tubs, fed by geothermal springs once used by the Paiute Tribe, provide the perfect place to relax. Over in Mendocino County, Orr Hot Springs Resort is tucked away in ancient redwood groves; it dates to the late 19th century when it was part of a stagecoach route. The resort is swimsuit-optional; you’ll find two communal hot tubs and a secluded mineral bath. Afterward, cool off in the spring-fed plunge (65-75 degrees) carved into a rock wall. Another great option is Vichy Springs Resort & Spa near Ukiah, CA. This 700-acre historic resort has hosted Mark Twain, Teddy Roosevelt, and Jack London and boasts the country's only warm, naturally carbonated Vichy mineral baths and an Olympic-size hot pool.
Nevada
Nevada has more than 150 hot springs. One of the classic’s is Carson Hot Springs, in Carson City. The Washoe people, followed by miners and settlers heading to California during the gold rush, are the earliest recorded users of the warm waters. In 1880’s, the springs were developed, with a bath house, club house and hotel. Now there’s a big outdoor pool, nine indoor private pools, and sauna.
New Mexico
New Mexico is renowned for its rich geothermal activity, and Jemez Hot Springs, located just an hour from Albuquerque, has long been a favored destination for those seeking relaxation. Artifacts found near Soda Dam date back to 2,500 B.C., marking this as the land of the Ancestral Puebloans. During your visit, you can also explore the nearby Jemez Pueblo. In the 1800s, Jemez Springs gained popularity as a tourist destination, thanks to the allure of its natural hot springs. Today, the historic Jemez Bath House, now owned and operated by the village, offers both hot and cold mineral soaks, along with massages. For those seeking a more secluded experience, several undeveloped hot springs are scattered across the area, located on U.S. Forest Service lands. McCauley Warm Springs requires that you hike a few miles, while Spencer Hot Springs and San Antonio Hot Springs are more easily accessible.
Montana
Montana is home to many iconic thermal baths. One of the best is Bozeman Hot Springs, tucked in the scenic Gallatin Valley. If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, head to Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa, established in 1900 as a boarding house for gold miners in Paradise Valley, just 35 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. The resort boasts two natural hot spring pools, fed by geothermal waters from the nearby Absaroka Mountains. Your soak is included if you stay in one of the rustic Conestoga wagons or a more luxurious cabin, but you can also snag a day pass if you’re just passing through. For a different vibe, check out Yellowstone Hot Springs Resort, located near the park’s northern entrance. With cozy cabins, an RV park, and even a campground, it’s perfect for a nature-filled getaway.
Idaho
There’s plenty of thermal activity in Idaho, with hot springs scattered across the state. The good news is there’s a great balance of remote, natural spots and more developed options. Easley Hot Springs, just 12 miles from Ketchum, is family friendly, with two tubs and a full-size swimming pool. Kirkham Hot Springs is a popular natural retreat along the Payette River with gorgeous view and accessible pools. It’s a great place to spend a few days hiking the Kirkham Ridge Trail, whitewater rafting, or trout fishing on the South Fork of the Payette.
Canada
The Canadian Rockies boast some of the most scenic hot springs in the world. After a day of hiking in Banff National Park, you can head to the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a soak. There’s public transportation from Banff, and the pool is open daily. For a luxury experience, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel has a 40,000-square-foot spa with an indoor hot mineral water pool and three waterfall treatment whirlpools and big windows with stunning views of the Bow Valley. There are plenty of hot springs across Canada, but we’ll save those for another Tough Mother Outdoor Article.
For your next adventure that includes a relaxing soak in a thermal bath, make sure to pack Columbia Sportswear's hiking gear, water shorts, fleece and puffy jackets for when you step out of the pool.