The United States is a geological wonderland, boasting some of the world’s most impressive geysers and hot springs. These natural marvels, born from the Earth’s fiery depths, offer visitors a glimpse into our planet’s raw power and beauty.
This article explores the 25 best geyser and hot spring spots across the U.S., each offering unique charm and experience.
Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
No list of American geysers would be complete without Old Faithful. This iconic geyser, true to its name, erupts with impressive regularity – approximately every 90 minutes. Its predictability and spectacular displays, shooting water up to 180 feet in the air, make it a must-see for any hot spring enthusiast.
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Imagine a painter’s palette come to life, and you’ve got the Grand Prismatic Spring. As the largest hot spring in the U.S., its vibrant rainbow hues – caused by heat-loving microorganisms – create an otherworldly spectacle that’s truly Instagram-worthy.
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Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone’s geological trifecta continues with Mammoth Hot Springs. Here, cascading terraces of travertine create an ever-changing landscape of thermal activity.
It’s like watching a living sculpture being carved before your eyes.
Geyser Hill, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
While we’re in Yellowstone (can you blame us?), let’s not overlook Geyser Hill. This concentrated area of geothermal activity is home to several impressive geysers and springs, including the petite but charming Anemone Geyser.
Boiling River, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
For those who prefer to dip their toes into the geothermal action, the Boiling River offers a unique experience. Here, hot spring water mixes with the cool Gardner River, creating the perfect natural hot tub – Mother Nature’s jacuzzi, if you will.
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Mystic Hot Springs, Monroe, Utah
Stepping out of Yellowstone, let’s head to Utah’s Mystic Hot Springs. These rustic pools, with their mineral-rich waters and vintage bathtubs, offer a quirky and relaxing soak with a side of desert scenery.
Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Home to the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, Pagosa Springs is a haven for those seeking therapeutic waters. The town’s name comes from the Southern Ute word ‘Pagosah,’ meaning ‘healing waters’ – a promise these springs certainly deliver on.
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
Who says hot springs are just for warm climates? Chena Hot Springs in Alaska offers the surreal experience of soaking in steaming waters while surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It’s also one of the best spots to view the Northern Lights – talk about a two-for-one deal!
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Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
California’s Lassen Volcanic National Park is a geothermal playground. The park’s Bumpass Hell area features boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and colorful hot springs – it’s like walking on the surface of an alien planet.
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, Colorado
If you’re looking for a more developed hot spring experience, Glenwood Hot Springs Pool in Colorado is the place to be. As the world’s largest hot springs pool, it’s less of a spring and more of a mineral-rich, geothermally-heated water park.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Let’s take a dip into history at Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. Known as ‘America’s Spa,’ this park has been attracting visitors to its healing waters since long before it became the country’s smallest national park in 1921.
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Travertine Hot Springs, California
Nestled in the Eastern Sierra, Travertine Hot Springs offers a more secluded experience. These primitive pools provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains – nature’s own infinity pool, if you will.
Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Back to Yellowstone (you didn’t think we were done, did you?), the Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest and most changeable thermal area in the park. It’s home to Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser – when it decides to show off, that is.
Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon
Perched on a hillside in Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest, these rustic pools offer a serene forest bathing experience – quite literally. The tiered pools provide varying temperatures, so you can find your perfect Goldilocks ‘just right’ spot.
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Granite Hot Springs, Wyoming
For the adventure seekers, Granite Hot Springs in Wyoming offers a unique experience. In winter, it’s only accessible by snowmobile, dog sled, or ski – talk about earning your soak!
Castle Geyser, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
One of the oldest and most majestic geysers in Yellowstone, Castle Geyser erupts less frequently than Old Faithful but compensates with its impressive 12-foot high cone formation – a testament to thousands of years of mineral deposits.
Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a ghost town to yourself (who hasn’t?), Dunton Hot Springs in Colorado is your chance. This restored 19th-century mining town offers luxurious accommodations alongside its natural hot springs.
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Grover Hot Springs State Park, California
Nestled in a beautiful alpine meadow, Grover Hot Springs State Park offers a peaceful retreat. The mineral pools here are a perfect blend of hot spring therapy and mountain tranquility.
Fifth Water Hot Springs, Utah
Also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, this hidden gem requires a bit of a hike to reach. But the reward? Cascading turquoise pools in a picturesque canyon setting. It’s like finding the pot of gold at the end of a steamy rainbow.
Excelsior Geyser Crater, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Once one of the largest geysers in the world, Excelsior now functions as a giant hot spring, discharging over 4,000 gallons of water per minute into the Firehole River. Its vibrant blue waters and constant steam make it a mesmerizing sight.
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Riverbend Hot Springs, New Mexico
Overlooking the Rio Grande, Riverbend Hot Springs in Truth or Consequences, NM (yes, that’s the town’s name) offers a unique blend of desert landscape and soothing thermal waters. The resort features private and public soaking options, with mineral-rich pools ranging from 95 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a rejuvenating experience for visitors seeking relaxation and scenic beauty.
Olympic Hot Springs, Washington
For those who like their hot springs au naturel, Olympic Hot Springs in Washington’s Olympic National Park fits the bill. These undeveloped springs require a hike to access, but the serene forest setting makes it worth the trek.
Mono Hot Springs, California
Tucked away in the Sierra National Forest, Mono Hot Springs offers a rustic retreat with several natural and developed pools. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to combine their hot spring experience with some high-altitude hiking.
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Biscuit Basin, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
We’re rounding out our Yellowstone tour with Biscuit Basin, named for the biscuit-like deposits that once surrounded its springs. While those formations are gone, the area still boasts stunning features like the aptly named Sapphire Pool.
Carson Hot Springs, Nevada
Last but not least, Carson Hot Springs in Nevada offers a taste of the Old West. These springs have been in use for over 150 years, providing relief to weary travelers and locals alike.
Planning Your Hot Spring Adventure
From Yellowstone’s geological marvels to hidden alpine pools, the U.S. offers an incredible variety of geyser and hot spring experiences. Whether you’re seeking the raw power of a geyser eruption, the soothing embrace of mineral-rich waters, or simply a unique natural wonder to admire, these 25 spots represent some of the best that American geothermal activity offers.
Whether you’re a geology buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone in need of a good soak, these geyser and hot spring destinations are sure to leave you with lasting memories.
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