If you’re a fan of hot springs, you’ll want to add these national parks to your travel bucket list. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the secluded pools of Big Bend, these parks offer some of the best hot springs experiences in the country. Get ready to soak in the natural beauty and relaxation of these top 5 national parks.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for hot springs enthusiasts. With over 10,000 geothermal features, including hot springs, geysers, and mud pots, Yellowstone is a geothermal wonderland. The park’s most famous hot spring, Grand Prismatic Spring, is the third-largest hot spring in the world and boasts vibrant colors that are a sight to behold. Other popular hot springs in the park include the Mammoth Hot Springs and the Norris Geyser Basin.
Grand Teton National Park
While Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain views, it also offers some hidden hot springs for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular is the Granite Hot Springs, which can only be accessed by a 12-mile drive on a dirt road or by snowmobile in the winter. The hot springs are located in a beautiful natural setting and offer a relaxing soak after a day of hiking or skiing. Other hot springs in the park include the Kelly Warm Springs and the Astoria Hot Springs.
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is the only national park in the United States that is dedicated to hot springs. The park features 47 hot springs that flow from the western slope of Hot Springs Mountain. Visitors can enjoy the hot springs in a variety of ways, including soaking in the historic Bathhouse Row, hiking the trails that lead to the hot springs, or taking a guided tour to learn about the history and geology of the area. The park also offers a variety of other activities, including camping, hiking, and scenic drives.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park in California is home to a unique collection of hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. Visitors can explore the park’s hydrothermal areas on foot, with trails leading to popular spots like Bumpass Hell and Sulphur Works. The park also offers a variety of other activities, including camping, hiking, and winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the park’s hot springs, which range in temperature from 80 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington state is a paradise for hot springs enthusiasts. The park is home to several natural hot springs, including Sol Duc Hot Springs, which features three mineral hot spring pools and a freshwater pool. Visitors can also hike to the Olympic Hot Springs, which are located in a remote area of the park and offer a more secluded hot springs experience. In addition to hot springs, Olympic National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
