With forests, deserts, mountains and thousands of species of animals, our Earth is truly an amazing place. One of the most incredible features on our planet is natural hot springs. Many of these therapeutic springs have been enjoyed for thousands of years, and continue to provide health and relaxation benefits to soakers today.
They contain natural minerals that heal and soothe both the mind and body, and are usually surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful natural scenery.
Because of our love of all things hydrotherapy, we here at ThermoSpas have rounded up a list of the best natural hot springs in America. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of life to connect with nature and rejuvenate your mind and body at these amazing spots.
Skyes Hot Springs – Big Sur, California
If you really want to connect with nature, make your way through the beautiful Big Sur to Skyes Hot Springs. A serine hike down the creek will lead you to this stone-lined natural hot spring.
Tucked away just above the Big Sur River, these small springs are about 8 feet across and are knee deep. They average about 102° F, perfect for a relaxing soak. Best of all, you will be surrounded by tall redwoods, a beautiful river and everything else Big Sur has to offer.
Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
Hot springs have contributed so much to the growth of this New Mexico town that it was originally named Hot Springs. Now renamed Truth or Consequences, after a popular 1950s NBC radio show, the town is still home to some of the most heavily mineralized spring water in the U.S.
These warm waters, that range in temperature from 98 to 115° F, come from a rift along the Rio Grande that is more than 50 million years old. Now, the resort town offers a plethora of ways to enjoy these natural spring waters, from spas to private baths in hotels.
Dunton Hot Springs – Dolores, Colorado
When you walk into this 800-acre cabin community, you’ll feel as if you’ve taken a step into the past. Dunton hot springs were enjoyed by 19th century gold and silver miners, and the ghost town has been carefully restored to maintain the culture and environment of the original romantic mining town. This unique resort features several ways to enjoy the earth’s spring waters.
You can sit in the soothing water under the stars at the source, inside the restored 19th century bathhouse, inside the Well House cabin, or out on the river. Depending on which you choose, the temperatures range from 85 to 106° F. Visitors can also enjoy Dunton’s saloon & dance hall, library, chapel and vineyards.
Rainbow Hot Springs – Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Getting to these hot springs is a challenge that is well worth the effort. After a 4.5 mile hike with a 1,000 foot elevation, you’ll reach the two secluded pools filled with hot spring water, which feature incredible views and therapeutic, 95 and 105° F waters.
The lower pool is the larger and cooler of the two and fits about 6 to 10 adults. The upper pool is closer to the source of the springs, and can hold about three people. The springs are a great place to camp and get in touch with nature.
Chena Hot Springs – Fairbanks, Alaska
If you’re looking for a really unique hot water experience, try relaxing in Chena Hot Springs during an Alaskan winter. The 106° F waters will keep you warm while chilly snow surrounds you. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the aurora appear overhead.
The geothermal area that the springs are located in produces water at a blistering 165° F. Of course, this water is cooled before visitors soak in it. Miners discovered and used the mineral-filled springs in the early 1900s, and there is some evidence that indigenous people used the water too.
We hope you get the chance to travel this beautiful country to reconnect with nature in one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating ways possible: soaking in a natural spring. If you’re interested in hydrotherapeutic getaways, you can have one every day by buying your own hot tub. To learn more, feel free to contact us today.
