Your ultimate guide to Utah’s most relaxing natural hot springs and geothermal wonders
Utah’s diverse geology creates perfect conditions for natural hot springs, offering visitors the chance to soak in mineral-rich thermal waters surrounded by stunning desert and mountain landscapes. From developed resorts to primitive wilderness pools, Utah’s hot springs provide year-round relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Whether you’re seeking luxury spa experiences or backcountry adventures, this comprehensive guide covers the best hot springs Utah has to offer.
Why Visit Utah’s Hot Springs?
Utah sits along the Basin and Range geological province, where the earth’s crust is stretching and thinning, allowing geothermal heat to rise closer to the surface. This creates numerous hot springs throughout the state, each with unique characteristics and mineral compositions. The therapeutic benefits of soaking in these naturally heated waters have been recognized for centuries, from Native American traditions to modern wellness practices.
Top Developed Hot Springs Resorts
1. Mystic Hot Springs – Monroe
Location: Monroe, Central Utah (3.5 hours south of Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: Mystic Hot Springs has become Instagram-famous for its colorful, mineral-stained bathtubs perched on a hillside overlooking the Sevier Valley. The property features multiple soaking pools at various temperatures, all fed by natural 168°F springs.
Features:
- Historic bathhouse with private tubs
- Hillside soaking tubs with panoramic views
- Natural flow-through pools (no chemicals)
- On-site camping and unique accommodations
- Live music events throughout the year
- Clothing-optional policies in certain areas
Admission: Day passes available; overnight stays recommended Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially stunning at sunset Pro Tip: Book the hillside tubs in advance during peak season. Visit midweek for smaller crowds.
2. Fifth Water Hot Springs – Diamond Fork Canyon
Location: Spanish Fork Canyon, Wasatch Mountains (1.5 hours from Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: Also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, this series of cascading pools along Fifth Water Creek offers one of Utah’s most scenic hot spring experiences. The 2.3-mile hike to reach the springs passes through beautiful forest and canyon scenery.
Features:
- Multiple tiered natural pools at varying temperatures
- Stunning creek-side setting
- Accessible via moderate hiking trail
- Free to visit (forest service land)
- Pools naturally clean themselves through water flow
Season: Best from late spring through fall (road often closed in winter) Difficulty: Moderate 2.3-mile hike with some elevation gain Pro Tip: Arrive early morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring water shoes for the rocky creek crossings.
3. Homestead Crater – Midway
Location: Midway, Heber Valley (1 hour from Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: This is Utah’s most unique geothermal experience—a 55-foot-tall, beehive-shaped limestone dome filled with 90-96°F mineral water. You can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, or simply soak in this remarkable natural formation.
Features:
- Largest warm spring in the United States
- Year-round swimming (65 feet deep)
- PADI-certified scuba diving
- Spa services available
- Part of the Homestead Resort
- Reservations required
Admission: Varies by activity (swimming, diving, spa packages) Best For: Unique experience seekers, divers, families Pro Tip: Book the first session of the day for the clearest water and smallest crowds.
4. Crystal Hot Springs – Honeyville
Location: Honeyville, Northern Utah (1 hour north of Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: Crystal Hot Springs claims to have the world’s largest side-by-side hot and cold springs. The facility offers a developed pool complex with water slides, diving boards, and multiple soaking pools.
Features:
- Multiple pools ranging from cold to 134°F
- Water slides and recreation facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool
- Natural flow-through system
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Camping facilities available
Admission: Affordable day passes Season: Year-round Best For: Families with children, groups Pro Tip: Visit in winter when steam rises from the pools against snowy landscapes.
Primitive and Backcountry Hot Springs
5. Meadow Hot Springs
Location: Meadow, Central Utah (2.5 hours south of Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: This is Utah’s deepest hot spring at 164 feet, popular with divers and adventurous soakers. The spring creates a large, natural pool perfect for swimming and diving.
Features:
- Extremely deep geothermal spring
- Popular scuba diving destination
- Free access (BLM land)
- Primitive facilities
- Water temperature around 90-100°F
- Incredibly clear water visibility
Access: Easy roadside access Best For: Divers, swimmers, budget travelers Important Note: Monitor water levels and conditions before visiting
6. Gandy Warm Springs
Location: West Desert, near the Nevada border (3 hours west of Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: This remote oasis in the West Desert features a large, clear pool surrounded by ruins of an old resort. The spring produces thousands of gallons per minute, creating a small stream through the desert.
Features:
- Large natural pool
- Remote desert setting
- Historic ruins to explore
- Free camping nearby
- Warm (not hot) water around 80°F
- Incredible stargazing opportunities
Access: High-clearance vehicle recommended Season: Best spring through fall Pro Tip: Combine with nearby ghost town exploration in the Snake Valley.
7. Baker Hot Springs
Location: Near Delta, Sevier Desert (2.5 hours south of Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: One of the most accessible primitive hot springs in Utah, Baker offers several natural pools at varying temperatures in a quiet desert setting.
Features:
- Multiple pools with different temperatures
- Easy access from paved road
- Free to use
- Popular with locals
- Primitive facilities
- Good for overnight camping
Water Temperature: 90-110°F depending on the pool Best Time: Fall and spring (can be crowded on summer weekends) Note: Please pack out all trash and respect the natural environment
8. Veyo Pool
Location: Veyo, Southwestern Utah (near St. George, 4 hours from Salt Lake City)
What Makes It Special: While technically a swimming pool, Veyo is fed entirely by natural warm spring water. The community pool offers a charming, old-fashioned swimming experience.
Features:
- Natural spring-fed pool
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Historic swimming pool (since 1924)
- Snack bar and picnic areas
- Affordable admission
- Popular with locals
Temperature: Comfortable 80-85°F Season: Summer months Best For: Families seeking a classic swimming hole experience
Hot Springs by Region
Northern Utah
- Crystal Hot Springs (Honeyville)
- Ogden Hot Springs (Ogden)
- Belmont Hot Springs (Ogden area)
Central Utah
- Fifth Water/Diamond Fork Hot Springs (Spanish Fork Canyon)
- Homestead Crater (Midway)
- Saratoga Hot Springs (Lehi) – recently closed to public
- Mystic Hot Springs (Monroe)
- Meadow Hot Springs (Meadow)
- Baker Hot Springs (Delta area)
Southern Utah
- Veyo Pool (Veyo)
- Pah Tempe Hot Springs (Hurricane) – currently in restoration
- Eskalante Hot Springs (along Colorado River)
Western Utah
- Gandy Warm Springs (West Desert)
- Various undeveloped springs in the Great Basin
Planning Your Hot Springs Adventure
What to Bring
Essential Items:
- Swimsuit (and backup)
- Towel and change of clothes
- Water shoes or sandals
- Drinking water
- Sunscreen and hat
- First aid kit
For Primitive Springs:
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Detailed directions and maps
- Emergency supplies
- Trash bags (pack it in, pack it out)
- Cooler for drinks
Optional but Recommended:
- Waterproof phone case
- Snorkel gear (for deeper springs)
- Camping gear for overnight trips
- Camera for photos
Hot Springs Etiquette
Respect the Resource:
- Never use soap or shampoo in natural springs
- Don’t disturb natural features or formations
- Pack out all trash
- Stay on established paths
- Respect posted capacity limits
Social Considerations:
- Keep noise levels reasonable
- Be aware of clothing policies (some are clothing-optional)
- Don’t monopolize small pools
- Be respectful of others’ space
- No alcohol in most developed facilities
Safety:
- Test water temperature before entering
- Enter slowly to allow body adjustment
- Limit soaking time to prevent overheating
- Stay hydrated
- Never dive into springs (check depth first)
- Be aware of slippery surfaces
Health and Safety Tips
Before You Go:
- Check current conditions and regulations
- Inform someone of your plans
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion
- Avoid springs if you have open wounds
- Pregnant women should consult doctors before soaking
At the Springs:
- Start with shorter soaking sessions
- Drink plenty of water
- Take breaks in cooler water or air
- Watch for signs of overheating (dizziness, nausea)
- Be cautious of wildlife
- Check water quality if unsure
Water Quality:
- Natural springs can harbor bacteria
- Avoid submerging your head
- Shower after soaking when possible
- Check for recent water quality reports
- Avoid springs after heavy rains
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March-May)
- Pros: Wildflowers, pleasant air temperatures, good water flow
- Cons: Some high-elevation springs still inaccessible, unpredictable weather
- Best For: Fifth Water, Mystic, developed resorts
Summer (June-August)
- Pros: All springs accessible, long daylight hours, warm weather
- Cons: Crowds, hot air temperatures make soaking less appealing at midday
- Best For: Early morning or evening soaks, higher elevation springs
Fall (September-November)
- Pros: Beautiful fall colors, smaller crowds, pleasant air temps
- Cons: Shorter days, some facilities close for season
- Best For: All springs, especially scenic ones like Fifth Water
Winter (December-February)
- Pros: Dramatic steam clouds, snow-covered landscapes, fewer crowds
- Cons: Road closures, cold air temperatures, some springs inaccessible
- Best For: Developed resorts (Homestead, Crystal, Mystic)
Day Trip Itineraries
Wasatch Front Hot Springs Tour (Weekend Trip)
- Day 1: Homestead Crater in Midway (morning), explore Park City (afternoon), stay overnight in Heber Valley
- Day 2: Fifth Water Hot Springs hike (morning to early afternoon)
- Total Driving: ~2 hours from Salt Lake City
Central Utah Hot Springs Adventure (Long Weekend)
- Day 1: Baker Hot Springs (afternoon soak), camp nearby
- Day 2: Drive to Monroe, visit Mystic Hot Springs (afternoon/evening)
- Day 3: Meadow Hot Springs on return trip
- Total Driving: ~5 hours round trip from Salt Lake City
Northern Utah Family Trip (Day Trip)
- Morning at Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville
- Lunch in nearby Brigham City
- Afternoon exploring Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
- Total Driving: 2 hours round trip from Salt Lake City
Combining Hot Springs with Other Activities
Hot Springs + National Parks
- Base yourself in Torrey near Capitol Reef, visit Baker or Mystic Hot Springs after hiking
- Stay in Hurricane near Zion, visit Veyo Pool or Pah Tempe (when open)
Hot Springs + Skiing
- Ski Park City or Deer Valley, soak at Homestead Crater
- Ski Sundance, visit Fifth Water Hot Springs
- Perfect for sore muscles after a day on the slopes
Hot Springs + Scenic Drives
- Drive Alpine Loop, stop at Homestead Crater or Fifth Water
- Explore West Desert backroads, visit Gandy Warm Springs
- Take Highway 89, visit Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe
Accommodations Near Hot Springs
Luxury Options
- Homestead Resort (Midway) – On-site crater access
- Sundance Mountain Resort – Near Fifth Water
- Red Mountain Resort (St. George area) – Near southern springs
Budget-Friendly
- Camping at Mystic Hot Springs
- Free camping near primitive springs (Baker, Gandy)
- Chain hotels in nearby towns (Spanish Fork, Monroe, Delta)
Unique Stays
- Vintage trailers at Mystic Hot Springs
- Airbnb options in Midway
- RV parks near Crystal Hot Springs
Seasonal Events and Experiences
Winter Soaking
The contrast between hot water and cold air creates magical steam clouds and provides relief from winter’s chill. Many developed springs stay open year-round.
Star Gazing
Remote springs like Gandy offer incredible dark sky viewing. The combination of warm water and celestial displays creates unforgettable experiences.
Photography
Dawn and dusk provide the best lighting for hot springs photography. Mystic Hot Springs’ colorful mineral deposits are particularly photogenic.
Conservation and Preservation
Utah’s hot springs face various threats including overuse, vandalism, and development pressure. You can help preserve these natural treasures by:
- Following Leave No Trace principles
- Supporting local conservation efforts
- Respecting access rules and private property
- Reporting damage or illegal activity
- Educating others about proper hot springs etiquette
- Supporting businesses that protect hot springs resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Utah’s hot springs safe? A: Most developed springs are regularly maintained and safe. Primitive springs carry natural risks—test temperatures, avoid submerging your head, and stay hydrated.
Q: Do I need permits for hot springs? A: Most are free to access, but some (like Homestead Crater) require paid admission. Always check current regulations.
Q: Can I visit hot springs in winter? A: Many are accessible year-round, though some require winter driving skills. Developed resorts are best for winter visits.
Q: Are hot springs clothing-optional? A: Most developed springs require swimsuits. Some primitive springs have informal clothing-optional use, but check local regulations and respect others’ comfort levels.
Q: How hot are the springs? A: Source temperatures range from 80°F to over 160°F. Most soaking pools are 95-110°F, which is comfortable for extended soaking.
Q: Can I bring alcohol? A: Policies vary by location. Developed resorts typically prohibit alcohol. Primitive springs on BLM land may allow it, but always check regulations and respect others.
Q: What about water quality? A: Natural springs can harbor bacteria. Avoid submerging your head, and shower after soaking when possible. Developed springs are regularly maintained and tested.
Additional Resources
- Utah Geological Survey: Detailed information about hot springs geology
- BLM Recreation Areas: Maps and access information for public land springs
- Hot Springs Directories: Online resources with user reviews and current conditions
- Local Visitor Centers: Up-to-date information on seasonal closures and conditions
Final Tips for Your Hot Springs Adventure
- Research Before You Go: Conditions change, especially at primitive springs. Check recent trip reports and water levels.
- Start Close, Go Far: Begin with developed springs to understand what you enjoy before venturing to remote locations.
- Respect Private Property: Many springs are on private land. Never trespass, even if you see others doing so.
- Be Flexible: Weather, crowds, and conditions may require backup plans. Have multiple options in mind.
- Share Responsibly: If posting on social media, consider the impact of increased visitation on sensitive locations.
- Support Local: Patronize businesses near the springs you visit. Local support helps preserve these resources.
- Give Back: Participate in cleanup events or support organizations working to protect hot springs.
Utah’s hot springs offer incredible opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and connection with nature. Whether you’re soaking in a hillside tub overlooking the desert, floating in an ancient limestone dome, or hiking to a remote mountain spring, these geothermal wonders provide experiences you’ll treasure for years to come.
From the developed luxury of Homestead Crater to the wild beauty of Gandy Warm Springs, Utah’s diverse hot springs scene has something for everyone. So grab your swimsuit, pack your towel, and discover the therapeutic magic of Utah’s natural thermal waters.
Remember: These natural resources are irreplaceable. Visit with respect, leave no trace, and help preserve these special places for future generations to enjoy.