Hot springs are geothermal water which flow, seep, or truckle below the Earth’s service along a line of active, formant, or extinct volcanoes. This leads to water which is mineral-rich and is reported to have healthful and even ailment-fighting properties which have been praised for centuries.
Light Feather Hot Spring/Jordan Hot Spring, Gila National Forest
Hiking up to these 2-for-one natural hot springs in New Mexico is well worth it. Walking for about 20 minutes along trail 157 will bring you to Light Feather Hot Spring, where 130-degree water pumps from the base of a deep canyon. For cooler water, you can hike up to the Jordan Hot Springs for the three-foot deep, mineral filled therapeutic waters which are about 90 degrees. The perfect temperature to soak those tired muscles.
Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
While some of these hot springs might be better for a couple’s retreat, this is a completely family friendly location that water-lovers will be obsessed with. A 20,000-gallon pool filled with geothermal water from mountain springs is accompanied by a water park with a kiddie pool, fast water slides, diving platforms, and even an Olympic swimming pool. Options for everyone means less stressed parents!
Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon
Just two hours from Portland sits the secluded serenity that is Breitenbush. Hidden within Mount Hood National Park, this retreat welcomes day trippers and overnighters thanks to the inclusion of cabins. Multiple natural stone pools. Make for a variety of soaking areas which increase slowly in temperature. There is also a “silent pool” and a geothermal water heated steam sauna. The retreat is clothing optional, so maybe stick to couples only for this one.
Riverbend Hot Springs, Truth or Consequence New Mexico
For a tranquil desert haven, this New Mexico town with a fascinating name is actually filled with leisure, thanks to Riverbend. Geothermal pools are communal and tiles, featuring private soaking tubs with various temperature. They all sit prettily next to the Rio Grande river and while you soak, you can soak in a view of Turtlebacks Mountain distant, dusty red hills.