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Hot springs in Utah will make you go, “Aaaaahhhhh.” The simple mention of hot springs seems to bring about a drop of the shoulders and a dreamy look. Those are then immediately followed by an intense search for where to find the closest hot springs.
However, there’s no need to go on the hunt because we’ve got some of the best hot springs in Utah listed for you right here.
What Are Hot Springs?
Hot springs are a natural underground phenomenon coming from deep within the earth. Thanks to geothermal energy, rain or groundwater seeps through cracks in the earth and then collects in reservoirs called aquifers.
Hot springs can also form from the extreme heat generated by magma and radioactive decay beneath the earth’s surface.
In either case, hot water is forced back toward the ground, and voila! Hot springs!
Are Hot Springs Safe?
But use caution. While there are hot springs in many places across the planet, all aren’t the same, especially those with water too close to the geothermal source.
Some hot spring pools can reach the boiling point, which is too hot for soaking. Other hot springs, such as geysers (the most famous being Old Faithful at Yellowstone), are pressurized when they come out of the earth and have already reached that boiling point.
Some natural hot springs can have possible bacteria outbreaks, making the water unsafe. Be sure to follow posted rules and closure notices.
Also, be aware of your health. If you already have high blood pressure or heart problems, hot springs can exacerbate those issues by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. And if pregnant, check with your physician before dipping your toes in.
While there are things to be aware of before submerging yourself into the earth’s heat, as long as you follow posted rules and know your abilities, dipping into a hot spring can be relaxing and even have health benefits from the natural minerals found in them.
A soak in hot springs has been known to relieve pain, reduce stress, improve skin conditions, and more.
How Many Hot Springs Are In Utah?
Start your adventure where you will experience some of the country’s best scenery and most relaxing waters.
With at least 12 hot springs in Utah, there’s sure to be one that draws you in. They’ll give you some of the best wrinkled fingers and toes because you won’t ever want to get out.
7 Best Hot Springs in Utah You Have to Visit
So, where should you begin your hot springs adventure in Utah? We’ve got seven of the best soaking pools in the Beehive State. One actually looks like a beehive, and you can scuba dive there!
Beehives aside, whether you’re looking for natural hot springs without the hustle and bustle of money and crowds or prefer resort-style hot springs, Utah has those and everything in between.
Crystal Hot Springs
Address: 8215 N Hwy 38, Honeyville, UT
Price: Starts at $18 per person. There are options for family swims and slide additions. Two years old and under are free.
Crystal Hot Springs (originally Madsen Hot Springs) started in 1901 as a hot spot for locals and tourists alike.
It quickly gained popularity not only for its beautiful views and therapeutic hot springs in Utah, but also because wounded soldiers were bussed there for rehabilitation during World War II.
Packed with minerals like no other hot spring in the world, Crystal Hot Springs has water temperatures ranging from 120 degrees to 134 degrees and a cold spring just 50 feet away with temperatures between 65 degrees to 75 degrees.
The combination of these two pools fills the three hot tubs, the soaker pool, its Olympic-sized pool, and two water slides.
How to Visit: Crystal Hot Springs is easy to get to. It’s 3 miles from I-15, just off of exit 372. While parking is free, and there’s no overnight parking, nor are RVs or trailers allowed in the lot.
Mystic Hot Springs
Address: 475 E 100 N, Monroe, UT
Price: For a two-hour soak, it is $25 for adults and $12.50 for kids 12 and under.
Mystic Hot Springs in Utah, formerly Monroe Hot Springs, is the hot spot. Mystic Hot Springs is just the ticket for those who want a more rustic and hippie experience.
Enjoy two heated concrete pools – one with a waterfall feature – heated up to 110 degrees and six vintage cast iron hot tubs.
Cool off with an outdoor concert, stay the night in one of the original pioneer cabins from the 1800s, or “hippie-fy” your getaway and sleep in a remodeled vintage school bus. Mystic Hot Springs also offers full hookups for your RV and primitive tent camping for those who want to get closer to nature.
How to Visit: This Utah hot spring might feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but really, it’s easily accessible from the highway on paved roads up until the last block.
Meadow Hot Springs
Address: Millard County, Utah, off of I-15, 90 minutes south of Provo, two hours northwest of Bryce Canyon National Park
Price: Free (with a requested donation if you can)
Meadow Hot Springs is an adventurer’s delight. Walk along the path and make your way to a hot oasis in the middle of a farmer’s field. This oasis consists of three hot springs. They’re all on private property, each with its own unique temperature.
The first pool is the hottest – around 100°F – and the deepest, while the other two are cooler and shallower. Suits are required, so bring your bathing suit, but don’t forget your respect for the area.
Include your scuba gear because scuba diving enthusiasts can even explore a hidden underwater cave in the deepest pool.
How to Visit: These hot springs in Utah are on private land. You can drive all the way there until the last half mile. Park on the side of the road and start the hike.
Keep in Mind: Utah is filled with five incredible national parks. Before you hit the road, here’s How to Plan an RV Trip to Utah’s National Parks
Fifth Water Hot Springs
Address: Thirty miles southeast of Provo near Springville on Diamond Ford Rd.
The GPS for the trailhead is 40.0849, -111.355.
Price: Free
If you are looking for hot springs and breathtaking waterfalls, a visit to Fifth Water Hot Springs in Utah just might do the trick. You can choose from three different waterfalls. That includes a multi-tiered one with scenic beauty.
Dip your toes into one of the soaking pools along the trail, which follows the stream. And by choosing where you soak, you can experience different water temperatures as it flows from the springs.
Fair warning, though you should technically wear bathing suits, many people enjoy the natural vibes here by soaking au natural. Another fair warning, it takes a hike to get here.
How to Visit: Starting from either the Three Forks Trailhead in Diamond Fork Canyon or the Rays Valley Trailhead on Rays Valley Road, the hike is easy, but it is around 2 miles in and 2 miles back out.
The Homestead Crater
Address: 700 N Homestead Dr, Midway, UT
Price: Pricing starts at $15 for everyone 8 years old and older for a 40-minute swim. Upgrades are available, along with discounts for younger ages. Diving starts at $22 per person, with rentals and lessons available.
The Homestead Crater is a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience you have to see to believe. Hidden within a 55-foot tall limestone rock shaped like a beehive, the interior is heated by natural mineral water at a temperature right around 90 degrees to 96 degrees.
The hole at the top of the dome lets in sunlight, creating a unique atmosphere.
A tunnel through the rock wall offers easy entry for guests to partake in various activities such as swimming, scuba diving (yes, you read correctly – this is the only warm scuba diving spot in the continental U.S.), snorkeling, soaking, and even paddle board yoga!
How to Visit: This hot spring in Utah is easily accessible and is only 45 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, just west of U.S. Highway 189.
Red Hill Hot Springs
Address: Starting in Monroe, Utah, head up 300 North. This road will turn into a dirt road. Once it does, go another half mile to the parking lot.
Price: Free
For hot springs enthusiasts searching for a unique and relaxing getaway, head to Red Hill Hot Springs in Utah.
Surrounded by breathtaking red rock formations and overlooking the small town of Monroe, the hot springs are on private land. However, the generous owners have kindly donated them for public use.
Offering easy access, these shallow pools pack a punch with temperatures ranging from hot to burning hot, with the hottest spot being the closest to the source. You’ll even find an outhouse, a firepit, and land to explore when done soaking.
How to Visit: This is a natural spring; however, you don’t need to hike to get there. Simply park your car at the red hill; the four pools are there. Please note: The dirt road can be rocky, but if you go slow, any car can make it up the road.
Inlet Park Hot Springs (Saratoga Springs)
Address: 6800 N Saratoga Rd, Saratoga Springs, UT
Price: Free
Located on the north end of Utah Lake, this hot spring in Utah boasts a small mud-bottomed pool around 3 feet deep with a water temperature of around 110 degrees.
With housing developments nearby, this is a very popular site. It provides convenience and views of surrounding snow-capped mountain peaks.
For those wanting to take a break from soaking in hot waters, there’s still plenty to do within the park.
There’s a playground for younger visitors and access to the shore of Utah Lake, where fishing and paddle boarding are encouraged activities. And for added convenience as well as peace of mind, bathrooms are also available.
How to Visit: There’s plenty of parking within Inlet Park. From there, access to the hot springs is via a short, well-developed walking path right from the parking lot.
Keep in Mind: Did you know Virginia has hot springs? Well now you do! But are they worth visiting like the hot springs out west?
Safety Tips for Visiting a Hot Spring
Visiting hot springs in Utah is one of the most enjoyable activities you can do in nature. However, hot springs are nothing to trifle with, and there are important safety rules to follow if you’re lucky enough to experience them in person.
Make sure you always watch for hot water from the hot springs, as it tends to build up and overflow unexpectedly.
Bring some layers for changing out of wet clothes and stay in areas as marked by posted signs. As mentioned before, many hot springs are on private property, so be respectful.
Along those same lines, be mindful of your surroundings and remember that hot spring water may contain bacteria or other chemicals which can be hazardous to your health. Again, follow posted signs, rules, and regulations.
Finally, if you plan on swimming in underdeveloped hot springs, respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from any creatures nearby. Your health and well-being will thank you when you pay attention to your safety, and others around you and you respect the natural environment of hot springs.
Try One of These Hot Springs in Utah During Your Next Visit to the Beehive State
Utah’s hot springs are the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind during your next visit to The Beehive State.
With so many different options to choose from, there is sure to be a hot spring that is just right for you.
So, whether you are looking for a commercial or natural setting, under the stars or a roof, camping or day trip, make sure to add one of these amazing hot springs to your itinerary. We can already hear the, “Aaaaahhhhh,” as you dip your toes into nature’s bathtub.
