Hot Springs Resorts That Will Make Your Winter Vacation Unforgettable

The snowy months bring cold weather, and the days getting darker sooner, so kick the cold to the curb with a dip in a hot spring. Hot spring resorts in the U.S. have the perfect destination for unwinding and rejuvenating. Looking for a winter getaway with incredible mountain views, a chance to see the Northern Lights, or a quiet, remote heat oasis in the desert? These seven resorts suit every winter traveler. Check out these hot springs to visit this winter.

1. Chena Hot Springs Resort — Fairbanks, Alaska

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a must-visit for travelers looking to experience both natural beauty and adventure. Located northeast of Fairbanks, this geothermal resort offers visitors the chance to soak in mineral-rich waters under the expansive Arctic sky, often illuminated by the mesmerizing aurora borealis. The resort is powered by renewable geothermal energy, ensuring a sustainable stay. Guests can indulge in greenhouse-to-table dining, explore the ice museum, and even embark on dog sledding, skiing, or guided aurora tours. This unique destination combines comfort with the wonders of the Alaskan wilderness.

2. Dunton Hot Springs — Dolores, Colorado

Located deep in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Dunton Hot Springs offers a luxury experience set in a historic 19th-century ghost town. This intimate resort features 13 beautifully restored cabins and communal spaces like a saloon. Guests can enjoy a series of mineral-rich, open-air pools with temperatures ranging from 85 to 104°F. After a relaxing soak, visitors can engage in activities such as snowshoeing, stargazing, and enjoying spa treatments. The resort’s serene atmosphere is complemented by seasonal cuisine and cozy fireside gatherings.

3. Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort — Warm Springs, Oregon

After a multi-million-dollar renovation, Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort has reopened, offering a revitalized experience for visitors. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Hood, this resort features geothermal soaking pools ranging from 92 to 104°F. The resort is located on the Warm Springs Reservation and is owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Guests can enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure with activities like spa treatments, wellness services, and access to sport courts. Kah-Nee-Ta’s rustic accommodations, including remodeled hotel rooms and camping-style teepees, provide a perfect backdrop for a winter escape.

4. Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs — Calistoga, California

For a charming, retro vibe combined with modern wellness treatments, Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs in Napa Valley is a top choice. This iconic resort features geothermal mineral pools and volcanic ash mud baths that provide detoxification and exfoliation. Visitors can relax by fire pits under the California sky, enjoy the resort’s spa garden, and unwind in cozy bungalows. Its combination of natural hot springs and Napa’s world-renowned wine country makes it a perfect winter getaway for those looking to combine relaxation with fine dining and wine tasting.

5. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa — Sonoma, California

For those seeking a luxurious yet peaceful getaway in California, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is a top choice. Located in the heart of Sonoma Valley, this iconic resort has drawn wellness seekers for over a century. The resort offers geothermal pools fed by mineral-rich waters, providing an idyllic place for year-round soaking. Visitors can unwind in the Roman-style bathhouse, indulge in water therapy pools, and experience restorative treatments in the spa. The resort’s rich history and elegant accommodations, combined with locally inspired dining, make it a perfect winter retreat.

6. Castle Hot Springs — Arizona

Castle Hot Springs offers a unique desert experience, with natural mineral springs fed into secluded soaking pools. Set in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, this historic luxury resort provides an ideal place for a tranquil winter escape. Soak in the warm waters after a morning hike or yoga session, then enjoy farm-to-table meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. For adventure lovers, the resort offers guided experiences, including hiking, ATV tours, and stargazing. With its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful desert surroundings, Castle Hot Springs is a perfect destination for those looking to unwind in the warmth of the Arizona desert.

7. Saratoga Hot Springs Resort — Saratoga, Wyoming

Set in the picturesque surroundings of Wyoming’s Snowy and Sierra Madre mountain ranges, Saratoga Hot Springs Resort offers an authentic Western winter retreat. The resort features unique teepee-covered hot pools and a 70-foot-long mineral spring pool that provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. After soaking, guests can explore nearby trails for cross-country skiing or snowmobiling, then unwind at the Healing Waters Spa or the Snowy Mountain Brewery for some après-soak refreshments. This resort offers a perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Tips for Travelers:

• Check Availability: Many of these resorts are popular winter destinations, so it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons.
• Winter Gear: If you plan to explore the outdoors or go hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing, pack accordingly for the colder climates.
• Spa Reservations: For those interested in spa treatments, ensure you book them early as they tend to fill up quickly in these serene resorts.
• Sustainable Practices: Many of these resorts are committed to sustainability, so make sure to ask about eco-friendly initiatives and how you can contribute to them during your stay.

Conclusion

These seven hot spring resorts are an ideal winter getaway whether you’re looking for the mineral-abundant waters of the Colorado mountains, the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska, or the serenity of the deserts of Arizona. All of these destinations are a great place to relax and recharge while experiencing a unique combination of luxury and nature.

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