What could be more fun than relaxing in a warm pool when all the surrounding is covered in snow? After a long day of exploring places and engaging in some of the best winter activities, soaking in hot water is just what is needed to end the day. Some hot springs are located on the roadsides, while the hidden ones may require vacationers to stroll a bit into the snowy wilderness. Get towels ready because these are the 10 cozy US hot springs you should be booking this winter.
10 Spence Hot Springs, New Mexico
Nestled in Santa Fe National Forest, Jemez Canyon and Spence Hot Springs are some of the coziest in the US to book for a winter vacation. The Hot Springs boasts incredibly hot thermal waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding. They are a popular destination during weekends and in summer, but winter is the perfect time to explore them since there are no crowds to interfere with a peaceful moment. The hot springs pool is small and can only accommodate up to ten people.
- Where to stay: Travelers can camp at Santa Fe National Forest or the nearby Vista Linda Campground.
9 Deep Creek Hot Springs, California
Located in San Bernadino National Forest, Deep Creek Hot Springs are accessible via a trek since they are nestled at the end of a trail, covering 3.6 miles, making it a suitable place for hikers. But even vacationers not into hiking will have a wonderful time upon getting to the hot springs. So, the effort is well worth it, thanks to the numerous natural pools with varying temperatures, giving travelers several options to choose from. Also referred to as Bigelow Hot Springs, Deep Creek Hot Springs is beautifully seated next to the McKenzie River.
- Where to Stay: Camp in San Bernadino National Forests or stay at Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters.
8 Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, California
Wild Willy's Hot Springs boasts numerous pools that naturally form the hot springs. Nestled near Mammoth Lake, these hot springs have varying temperatures, ranging between 35 °C and 40.56 °C. Travelers will encounter and beautifully shaped spring, presenting incredible photo opportunities. Travelers should check the status of the surrounding before heading out, as some roads to the hot springs may not be available because of weather.
- Where to stay: Sierra Nevada Resort & Spa
7 San Antonio Hot Springs, New Mexico
Located in Santa Fe National Forest, on the side of a mountain, San Antonio Hot Springs are among the cozy US hot springs one should be booking this winter. Consisting of about five pools with varying temperatures, San Antonio Hot Springs is perfect for a dip in winter. Being tucked away in the mountainside, these springs offer incredible views of the surrounding. Getting to the springs requires a 4WD vehicle, which will take about four miles, plus a seven-mile hike. Those choosing to hike throughout will hike about 13 miles to get there.
Note: Check the Forest Service website before heading out, as sometimes the road gets covered in heavy snow.
- Where to stay: San Antonio Campground
6 Omni Bedford Springs Resort, Pennsylvania
Omni Bedford Hot Springs Resort is a historic hotel that has been in operation for more than 100 years and offers an incredibly luxurious experience of hot springs in winter. Apart from soaking in its cozy hot springs, there is a Springs Eternal Spa, where vacationers can get all kinds of treatments to achieve optimum relaxation. Travelers will also find various amenities, including a golf course and a pro shop offered at the resort, to make their experience unforgettable.
- Where to stay: Omni Bedford Hot Springs Resort
5 Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, California
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is an incredible destination to spend the cold winter days. Located in the rolling hills of the Upper Napa Valley, this place is magical, boasting fantastic natural geothermal waters. The cold weather or rains won’t interfere with the springs because the mineral baths are nestled indoors. At this place, tourists will definitely be spoilt for choice, from a steamy Jacuzzi pool, with up to 104 degrees temperatures, a soaking pool with up to 100 degrees, a lap pool with 80 degrees, as well as a wading pool, which is excellent for children.
- Where to stay: UpValley Inn & Hot Springs, the Inn on Pine
4 Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
Chena Hot Springs is a part of Chena Hot Springs Resort and have incredible soaking opportunities, including indoor and outdoor options. At the resort, there is a fantastic spa, giving vacationers a chance to relax their body, mind, and spirit with a massage treatment. The cost of the services varies, but vacationers are assured of reduced stress, pain relief, and enhanced motion range and circulation.
- Where to stay: Chena Hot Springs Resort
3 Astoria Hot Springs, Wyoming
Astoria Hot Springs is a perfect option for travelers looking for an incredible blend of amenities and peacefulness. It is one of the most serene spots and has numerous pools with varying temperatures, giving vacationers a range of options. Nestled in Jackson, Wyoming, Astoria comes with a separate pool for kids, a bit cooler, making it one of the best family-friendly options for an unforgettable experience of hot springs in winter.
2 Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon
Also referred to as Toketee Hot Springs, these are among the cozy US springs one should be booking this winter and is easily accessible via a short hike. Travelers will enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding, especially from the hot spring pools' terrace. The area is only accessible during the day and have a lot to explore in its surrounding, including waterfalls and hiking trails. The hot springs are located in the Umpqua National Forest.
- Parking fee: $5
- Where to stay: Camp at Toketee Lake Campground
1 Hart Mountain Hot Springs, Oregon
Located within Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, these hot springs guarantee an amazing experience in winter. Travelers may experience difficulty in accessing the hot springs because of heavy snow, but its range of pools and amenities make an effort worth it. The main pool boasts an average temperature of 102 (Fahrenheit). A few steps from the main pool is a smaller natural pool that’s a little warmer than the main pool.
- Where to stay: Cap at Hart Mountain Hot Springs campground