Nestled next to Flathead Lake, Kalispell, Montana, as well as neighboring Whitefish (next to Whitefish Lake), serve as gateways to the majestic Glacier National Park. In addition to the beautiful lakes, mountains, and forests, the town is also closeby to a number of hot spring resorts and primitive pools.
Most of the locations are hot spring resorts, which often offer accommodations, dining, and other amenities in addition to the mineral water pools. Many of the following spots are located in Hot Springs, Montana, a local epicenter for geothermal activity that’s about an hour from Kalispell.
Ordered by proximity to downtown Kalispell, what follows is a list of primitive hot springs and hot spring resorts in northwestern Montana.
Wild Horse Hot Springs (63 miles)
With 14 plunge pools fed by the impressive Mother Dragon Geyser, Wild Horse Hot Springs is a no-frills soaking experience just outside of Hot Springs, Montana. Open seven days a week, the plunge pools can be used by day and overnight guests. While no reservations are required, visitors should keep in mind that during busy times there may be a maximum soak time of two hours.
125° F water emerges from Mother Dragon Geyser at an impressive rate of 1,200 gallons per minute, and soakers can alter the temperature of their baths by controlling the flow of this hot water into the tubs. All of the tubs are chemical-free and cleaned daily, and a constant flow ensures that fresh water is constantly coming into the pools.
In addition to the 14 plunge pools, Wild Horse Hot Springs also offers a few options for accommodations. Tent camping and RV Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and limited electric hookups are available. For availability, call ahead.
For a slightly less rustic experience, consider booking one of the resort’s cabins or tipis. Some cabins include kitchenettes, and all feature heating and cooling.
Alameda’s Hot Springs Retreat (65 miles)
Also in Hot Springs, Montana, Alameda’s Hot Springs Retreat is a unique motel offering private mineral baths in each room. Open since the 1930s, Alameda’s has been a welcome refuge for nearly a century.
With 23 unique cabins and rooms, most of which have private living rooms and porches, visitors can unwind and enjoy a laid-back hot springs experience. Reservations can be made online or via phone.
As of September 2022, Alameda’s is upgrading its facilities to include a sauna, indoor shower, outdoor shower, and three outdoor mineral water pools to complement each room’s indoor soaking tubs.
Big Medicine Hot Springs (65 miles)
A favorite for locals and tourists alike, Big Medicine Hot Springs is another great option for soaking near Kalispell. A thoroughly rustic experience, Big Medicine is composed of one 6 x 15-foot tub heated to approximately 101-105° F.
Big Medicine is available for day-use only. Although there are no caretakers or employees present, there is a self-payment box that relies on the honor system. There are no on-site accommodations, but there are a few good places for camping in close proximity.
The Symes Hot Springs Hotel & Mineral Baths (65 miles)
An impressive resort featuring pools, accommodations, dining, and more, the Symes Hot Springs Hotel is one of the highlights of Hot Springs, Montana. Three pools are available for soaking, two of which are flow-through and connected via a waterfall.
The hotter pool is maintained at around 107° F, and the lower pool sits at approximately 101° F. The larger, separate pool sits at 95° F, making it perfect for swimming and extended soaking.
For accommodations, the hotel has standard rooms, suites, and even a few apartments for larger parties. All of the rooms include sinks and toilets, but some also have showers, tubs, TVs, and more. Additionally, tent and RV camping with and without hookups are available on-site.
After soaking, take advantage of the Symes Bathhouse Grill & Cantina, or stop by the Espresso Bar for a locally-made espresso or any number of assorted pastries. Finally, Symes also offers massage services by appointment only. To make reservations, call Radiant Touch massage.
Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort (93 miles)
Located about 90 minutes from Kalispell, Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort is a full-service resort featuring pools, lodging, and a restaurant. As expected, the highlight of the resort is its five flow-through hot spring pools, which range in temperatures from 100 to 106° F.
Additionally, brave guests can try their luck in the 55° F cold soak plunge pool. Soaking is available for non-overnight guests, but reservations are required.
Lodging is available in two lodges and a number of beautiful cabins. One popular option for accommodations is the River-View Cabins, which are nestled along the banks of the Clark Fork. For visitors hoping for an affordable, kids-free experience, consider staying at the adults-only Glacier Lodge.
For dining, Quinn’s is well-known for the Harwood House Restaurant, which serves locally-sourced steaks, high-quality seafood, and organic produce. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but reservations are highly recommended for dinner. For more casual eats, head to Quinn’s Tavern for a burger and any one of 30 bottled beers.
These are just some of the best hot springs in the Kalispell, Glacier, and Whitefish areas. Explore other Montana Hot Springs scattered around Big Sky Country. Enjoy your trip to The Treasure State!
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