Lost Trail Hot Springs – Sula, Montana

Located in Sula, Montana about an hour and a half south of Missoula, this hot spot has a long, rich history. Lost Trail Hot Springs was originally known as Gallogly Hot Springs, prior to the 1970s.

Back in the 70s, the place was a pitstop for travelers who were trekking at the Continental Divide at Gibbons Pass. Since the location is abundant in hot springs, the place was developed as such. The dense pine forest covers the grounds of the resort and makes a postcard-perfect image after the first snow.

History

Long ago, travelers passing through the Great Continental Divide at Gibbons Pass would take a break there before their arduous journey. As with most hot springs in the US, it was originally a site for ceremonies and healing for Native Americans.

It wasn’t until 1894 that the healing waters were first run through a pipe to a private residence. The next year the first hotel in the area was built during a mining boom.

The Lost Trail Hot Springs officially opened on July 27, 1941. During that time, they served a classic chicken dinner for $1 (about $20 in 2022). Montana’s leisure history certainly involves the community of this location.

Natural Hot Springs Pool

Now, the resort follows an “ebb and flow” when it comes to its opening and operations. Since there are changes in weather and water temperature, their opening hours and days vary per season. The hours below are subject to change, so please check their website or call ahead between 8 am and 9 pm to verify.

Summer Hours: From mid-June until Labor Day in early September, the pools open every day from 8 am until 10 pm.

Off-Season Hours: From Labor Day in early September until mid-June, they have the following schedule:

Friday: 12 pm – 9 pm
Saturday: 8 am – 9 pm
Sunday: 8 am – 7:30 pm

Year-long, the natural hot springs reach up to 107° Fahrenheit. As for the pool, the typical water temperature is around 92° F in the winter and 96° F in the summer. The hot tub averages 102° F in the winter and 105° F in the summertime.

Dining

Lost Trail Hot Springs Restaurant and Pool Building Montana — Restaurant and pool building at Lost Trail Hot Springs. Photo by: Seattle.roamer

The resort also has an in-house restaurant, but it’s better to call their team and reserve since, as the administration noted, they can only be open via reservation “or by chance.” The restaurant is usually closed during spring and fall.

On the other hand, its Wood Fired Pizza Wagon is sometimes touring all over Montana. There are no set hours or working dates, but they can be seen in town. They also said that if the “wagon” is on the road, there is a high chance the restaurant is closed.

Lost Trail Hot Springs is a special location 85 miles south of Missoula. While staying here, you can definitely enjoy nature sounds filled up with wildlife and trees within the Bitterroot National Forest.