Salt Lake City, Utah’s state’s capital, has become the epicenter for all adventure and outdoor lovers over the past few years. From nearby hot springs to incredible cliffside hikes, this city truly has it all.
One of the most unique and stunning natural wonders within the city’s reach includes some of the country’s best and most well-known hot mineral waters. They are great any time of year, especially during those snowy winter days. Consider one of the ski resorts by SLC if visiting during the wintertime. While most popular during the summertime, some campgrounds by SLC are open year-round.
So put on your swimsuit and get ready to relax in one of Utah’s natural hot springs. Here are some of the best hot springs near Salt Lake City, in order of proximity:
Inlet Park Hot Springs- 31 mi | .5 hr
One of the closest and most accessible hot springs near Salt Lake City is Inlet Park Hot Springs. Formally known as Saratoga Hot Springs, this is a local favorite that you won’t want to skimp out on. The springs are located just a short thirty-minute drive outside the city center, making it a great last-minute trip. It’s perfect for those of you looking to experience all that these natural wonders have to offer, even if you’re in a time crunch.
The pools themselves are located right off the north edge of Utah Lake, thirty-one miles outside the city. There’s an extremely well-trafficked path leading from the parking lot to the soak spot. The beautiful location of the springs provides goers with a stunning and unbeatable mountain range view that will leave you feeling inspired. It’s truly an incredible spot to spend the day, and highly recommended by many.
Inlet Park Hot Springs, Utah 84045 | 801-766-9793
Homestead Crater Hot Springs- 46 mi | 1 hr
Next up on the list is Homestead Crater Hot Springs. This incredible natural phenomenon is located just under an hour outside of Salt Lake City. It’s a short forty-six miles outside the city. It’s known for its fifty-five-foot limestone walls that enclose the swimming area. It has been a bit of a local secret for a while but has recently started to gain some traction…and for good reason.
The unique location allows visitors to experience hot springs with a more adventurous approach. You can swim, soak, snorkel, or even scuba dive in the crystal-clear crater waters! Reservations are required, so make sure to plan ahead of time.
700 North Homestead Dr, Midway, UT 84049 | 435-657-3840 | homesteadresort.com/things-to-do-homestead-crater
Crystal Hot Springs- 68 mi | 1 hr
The state’s magnificent Crystal Hot Springs is a short hour’s drive (sixty-eight miles) outside of Salt Lake City in Honeyville. The hot springs are a great spot for some family fun or for those of you who aren’t yet comfortable soaking completely in the wild.
The springs have a resort-like feel to them, making them a great choice for families or friends with mixed preferences and tastes. They have an affordable entry fee year-round, so you won’t have to break the bank in your quest for some fun. Bonus points for those of you who are brave enough to go down the slide! It’s a real treat.
8215 N Highway 38, Honeyville, UT 84314 | 435-339-0038 | crystalhotsprings.net
Fifth Water Hot Springs- 72 mi | 1.5 hr
Fifth Water Hot Springs is hands down one of the most “out of this world” locations in Utah. It’s also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, which I would suggest is a more fitting name. The Gatorade blue and sparkly water will make you feel like you’re swimming in an untouched million-dollar area. It’s pure magic!
You can reach the springs by driving a little over an hour outside of the city to an area near Springville, Utah (it’s about a seventy-two-mile drive). The springs are a bit more remote than others but getting there is half the fun. The trail itself is roughly a five-mile hike and takes around three hours.
Make sure to get to the trailhead early in the day to avoid the hot Utah heat of your visit during the summer months. With that being said, don’t let the difficulty of getting here deter you from going. It’s hands-down worth the trek, and with a little bit of additional planning, the hike will fly by with ease.
Diamond Fork Rd, Springville, UT 84663
Belmont Hot Springs RV Park – 83 mi | 1.25 hr
Situated in Garland in northern Utah, this outdoor recreation area and campground offer a paradise for nature lovers. Take a leisurely swim in the two on-site hot springs pools, which hold cozy temperatures of 97℉ and 104℉, and rinse off in the free showers. Bring your family dog along and hike the many nearby trails at dawn or dusk for amazing photo opportunities.
Camping at Belmont Hot Springs RV Park is an amazing way to enjoy the basics of nature. Each site is angled for an RV or travel trailer, equipped with 30 & 50 Amp and full water, sewer, and electric hookups. The property also has on-site laundry, a clubhouse, and a front office that can provide additional hiking information.
Even though this destination is out in nature, it’s also close to several nearby attractions. There are seven golf courses and five restaurants within proximity to the camp. Bring the family to the Logan Aquatic Center or Zootah Park for some fun in the sun, then return to the campground and unwind in this relaxing atmosphere.
5600 W 19200 N, Garland, UT 84312 | 435-458-9975
Meadow Hot Springs – 150 mi | 2 hr
Meadow Hot Springs is a geothermal spring located south of Provo, Utah about two hours or one hundred fifty-one miles outside of Salt Lake City. The springs average a yearly temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great spot for some fun year-round.
The area has three separate pools to soak in and are accessible by a quick half-mile hike. It should be noted that these springs are on private property, so pack out what you pack in, and be extra cautious and respectful. The property owner has been gracious enough to give the public access to these warm and clear water springs, and we want to keep it that way.
Hot Springs Rd, Kanosh, UT 84637
Baker Hot Springs- 151 mi | 2.5 hr
Baker Hot Springs is a beautiful and unique spring where clothes are optional, and fees don’t exist. This hippie paradise in Delta, Utah is surrounded by open skies and rugged nature. It’s recommended that those looking to access the location use a 4×4 vehicle so that they don’t get stuck.
With that being said, the secluded and vast feel that comes with Baker Hot Springs is a great win for anyone looking to unwind and get away from the city for a bit.
Baker Hot Springs Road, UT
Mystic Hot Springs- 174 mi | 2.5 hr
Mystic Hot Springs is the most historically fascinating and aesthetically pleasing springs on the list. Located two and a half hours and a whopping (but very pretty) one hundred and seventy-four miles outside of Salt Lake City, this spring is one you won’t want to miss.
This manmade hot springs resort is surrounded by vibrant and beautiful red rocks and has three main bathtubs for visitors to soak in…yes, I said bathtubs! In addition, it is said that this unique location used to be home to many of Utah’s nomadic Indian tribes. You’ll feel like you’re being thrown back in time while visiting these phenomenal hot springs!
475 E 100 N Monroe, UT 84754 | 435-612-0568 | mystichotsprings.com
Whether you’re visiting Salt Lake City for a quick trip, or living in the area, be sure to carve out as much time as possible to enjoy all the city and springs have to offer. There are so many benefits to getting out in nature, enjoying some good old-fashioned fresh air, and letting your skin soak up some of the earth’s natural minerals. You won’t want to miss out on these incredible sites. Happy soaking!
Belmont Hot Springs RV Park – Garland, Utah