Hot springs are a great place to soak away the stress of the day (or, in this case, the stress of 2020 as a whole) and are filled with natural minerals that are great for the skin. A hot spring is essentially a natural spa that bubbles up to the earth's surface, resulting in warm to hot water that's kept at a steady temperature geothermally. Usually, a hot spring will sit at a constant temperature of about 100-degrees Fahrenheit. These natural spas are often found near areas where volcanic activity is present since that's where the ground will be the hottest, especially along fault lines.
It's believed that the water bubbling up from these springs has healing properties for the human body, similar to the way that black sand in Iceland's Blue Lagoon is believed to have similar benefits. This belief is why they're often used for rehabilitation and therapy and not just as tourist attractions. Since the water does stay at a consistently high temperature, it has the ability to hold more minerals such as magnesium, lithium, calcium, and sometimes, radium. According to mountaintrek.com, this mineral-rich water is akin to a "multi-vitamin for the skin."
While this water is known to soothe skin and muscle aches, it's also believed to help the body on an even deeper level. Musculoskeletal problems, skin conditions such as eczema, poor circulation, and congestion are all believed to be lessened by the warming effects of hot springs. Alternately, if nothing else, relaxation is an almost guaranteed effect of spending a few hours soaking in a hot spring. By the simple process of de-stressing, a myriad of ailments - both relating to the mind and body - can be alleviated.
Similarly, various minerals within the water are able to target certain ailments. Magnesium is key to having clear skin and a flawless complexion, while potassium is responsible for eliminating toxins in the body. Sodium can help to lessen joint swelling and aids in the lymphatic system, while Sulphur (responsible for the sometimes unusual rotten egg smell) is surprisingly good for respiratory problems and inflammation caused by skin irritation. So where can one soak up all of these benefits? These are some of the best spots in the US for hot-spring-soaks.
Allegheny Springs In Virginia
At the Omni Homestead Resort, you can find the Allegheny Springs. Not only is this resort home to plenty of history for those who appreciate that type of atmosphere, but it's also one of the best hot springs in the country. The water for these soaking pools comes from the Allegheny Mountains and is streamed directly into the Jefferson pools; the spa is open throughout the winter months as well as during peak summer season.
Conundrum Hot Springs In Colorado
It's not surprising that Colorado is a premier destination for hot springs and Conundrum Hot Springs is one of the best - although it does take a bit of work to get there. To find the spring, visitors will need to strap on their hiking boots and follow an 8.5-mile trail that will lead them to this amazing natural spa pool. Camping here is encouraged, and the scenic vistas of Colorado's mountain landscape are well worth the effort for a good mineral soak.
Chena Hot Springs In Alaska
There's really no better place to find a hot spring than in Alaska, especially during those chillier days. The added benefit to the Chena Hot Springs is that visitors can also take in the sights of the Northern Lights if they time their trip just right. Located about an hour outside of Fairbanks, this hot spring is also home to a resort, so staying overnight is worth the sky show from the spring.
Hot Springs State Park In Wyoming
Not far from Yellowstone is Hot Springs State Park, which not only features incredible thermal pools, but also the interesting geo-features you'd see in a Wyoming state park. These outdoor pools are fed directly from the surrounding hot springs, so you can be sure that the water you're soaking in is about as mineral-rich as it can be. Set against a beautiful landscape and in a natural spring pool setting, it doesn't get much more relaxing than this.
Burgdorf Hot Spring In Idaho
Idaho is home to many things, but hot springs wouldn't be the first thing too many people think of - however, they're abundant in this state. Burgdorf Hot Springs is arguably the best in the state and while it's located in a somewhat remote spot, it's worth the trip. During the winter, a snowmobile is the only way to get there, but the road to the resort is easily accessible when there's no snow on the ground.