Heading to hot springs in Wyoming, Montana or Colorado? Better plan early – Cowboy State Daily

People are very hot for hot springs, and various hot springs in the Mountain West are being expanded and upgraded to accommodate more visitors. But if you’re eager to take the plunge this year, you better plan ahead.

Some hot springs resorts are undergoing major renovations, though a broader trend is a greater focus on wellness — including things like cold plunges, aqua yoga, sound baths and teaching guests how to get the most out of hydrotherapy, according to Jessica Meath, executive director of the Hot Springs Association, based in New Castle, Colorado.

In addition, smaller pools that offer a more “intimate soaking experience” have also become more common, she added.

“We continue to see this whole upward resurgence and re-energization in the hot springs space,” Meath said.

Many people are seeking vacations thanks to a greater focus on wellness experiences and, in particular, the health benefits of hot springs, she added, while some resorts have also found success in attracting conferences and other events, she added.

While demand can vary greatly by location, many hot springs are increasingly busy year-round, Meath said, adding that “it’s generally wise to book sooner rather than later.”

Booking a winter getaway at several popular resorts can be difficult if you haven’t already.

All lodging options are booked through March at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, in Paradise, Montana, while limited availability is available at Strawberry Peak Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

And the famous Star Plunge at Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, remains closed because of a property dispute.

But there are a range of options to choose from for wellness enthusiasts to enjoy hot springs, including day-use hot spring parks and undeveloped natural pools.

“You can find a hot spring with an entry price that’s really affordable for everyone all the way to these really luxury resorts,” Meath said.

Here are some planned changes coming to popular hot springs destinations this year in Wyoming, Colorado and Montana.

Wyoming Hot Springs

Major changes are coming to two of Wyoming’s most visited hot springs.

A major expansion is underway at the park that surrounds the Astoria Hot Springs in Hoback. Construction of an expanded park, nearly 100 acres, is already underway and will include new amenities and facilities, although no changes are currently planned for the six hot spring pools. The project is expected to be completed sometime in 2026.

Meanwhile, Star Plunge in Thermopolis is temporarily closed, but for how long remains an open question.

Negotiations over a potential sale of those facilities are still ongoing, but a court ruled in December that litigation must be settled before a new operator can take over the facilities. Meanwhile, the free bathroom at Hot Springs State Park remains open.

It’s in the southern part of the state and a little off the beaten path The famous Hobo Hot Springs in SaratogaAlthough a bit remote, the facility is a magnet for visitors at any time of the year, so calling ahead is a good idea.

Colorado Hot Springs

A major expansion underway at The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs, Colorado is scheduled to open this spring.

In addition to expanded geothermal pools and new experiences, visitors can expect to find new accommodations and dining options.

“This is probably the largest project that’s taking place between the three states,” Meath said. Bookings are available from May 15.

Charlotte Hot Springs near Buena Vista is a smaller location that opened in late 2024. and offers “a nice, intimate setting,” Meath said. There are adjacent botanical gardens and accommodation options.

A major expansion at Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves in Glenwood Springs was completed in May 2024. and includes five new pools. Guestroom renovations at Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge are scheduled to be completed in the spring, as well as a new boutique hotel.

Construction of new pools is underway at Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, with a grand opening slated for the summer. Once completed, there will be a new lap pool, a children’s splash area and four new pools.

Montana Hot Springs

While a Montana radio station floated the possibility that Hunter’s Hot Springs in Butte could reopen soon, there are no plans now, said Jeff Birkby, a geothermal consultant for the Hot Springs Association.

While nothing has been confirmed, the owner is exploring some redevelopment options, he said.

Similarly, the owner of Tice Hot Springs near Three Forks has done some preliminary studies of the geothermal source, but has no plans to reopen the springs, which have been closed for at least 40 years, Birkby said.

But one resort that will be getting some renovations this year is Chico Hot Springs in Prairie, which will be working on renovating some pools in the fall.