Soak It All In: Unwind in Yellowstone Country’s Hot Springs

Montana is known for many things: outdoor adventure, Western culture and wide-open spaces. But one of its most unique characteristics is also one of my favorites — we have many natural hot springs. Here in Montana’s Yellowstone Country, we have three hot springs: Bozeman Hot Springs, Yellowstone Hot Springs and Chico Hot Springs. (Some of you may remember The Boiling River, in Yellowstone National Park, which is sadly closed due to the floods of 2022 that washed away the soaking area and damaged adjacent infrastructure, making it unsafe.)

Bozeman Hot Springs became an official hot spring in 1879 when Jeremiah Mathews, a local wagon and carriage maker, bought the land and built five private bathing rooms and a 14x18-foot plunge pool. It was sold again in 1890 when it became Ferris Hot Springs and Hotel. Today, the springs are comprised of twelve pools, ranging in temperature from 59 to 106 degrees, a cold plunge, and both dry and wet saunas. Their outdoor bandstand hosts live music while you soak, and the campground next door is lovely. The newly erected fitness room, entryway and café are the latest expansion, now serving baked goods, soup, salad, sandwiches and flatbreads! The venue is available to rent for private parties, and the campground also has a pavilion for larger parties. (Note: Bozeman Hot Springs is closed from sundown on Friday until sundown on Saturday.)



Yellowstone Hot Springs, just eight miles north of the North Entrance to Yellowstone, is known for its mineral-rich waters, with continuous flow-through circulation that does not require chlorine. There are three large pools (two hot and one cold plunge) set between stunning mountain ranges, with night skies so dark and star-filled, you’ll enjoy the views as much as the soak! Cabins and suites are available, as well as RV and tent camping. The East Gate Café uses fresh, natural ingredients in their paninis, garden salads and breakfast fare, and the drive-through is great for those who want to get on the road!

Chico Hot Springs, established in 1900, began as Chico Warm Springs Hotel, with the promise of a good soak, a clean bed and a fine meal. It grew in popularity with gold miners and Yellowstone visitors who also enjoyed dancing the night away on the hill above the hotel. Over the years, the hotel became many things, including a 20-room hospital, a church camp, a guest ranch, a roadhouse and a retreat center before becoming a destination resort and spa in 1973. The Chico Historic Dining Room is still known as one of the finest restaurants in Montana, but you can also enjoy more casual fare at the poolside grill or Chico Saloon. During the summer, much of their produce is grown on site in their gardens and greenhouse.



There are two pools, one hotter than the other, along with live music, a day spa, horseback riding, yoga, disc golf and hiking. It’s a favorite wedding destination with a variety of unique lodging, from historic rooms to covered wagons, plus an actual caboose, cabins and homes for larger groups.

Bring your family and friends and enjoy this pastime worth passing on!