A hot springs vacation might conjure images of exclusive (and expensive) resorts equipped with luxurious spas, offering long menus of relaxing healing massages at not-so-relaxing prices.
But insiders know it need not be that way. Some of the most beautiful hot springs in the US are deep in natural, remote areas, far from the carefully-curated world of luxury resorts and spas. Soaking enthusiasts will find thermal hot springs created by heated groundwater that rises to the earth’s surface all over the US. At all natural hot springs, the groundwater is heated to some degree through contact with magma or hot rock deeper toward the earth’s core. Eventually, pressure sends it back up to the surface.
The subterranean phenomenon may be violent and high-pressure underground, but above ground, it creates relaxing, restorative hot springs that make perfect outdoor baths — and many happen to be in some of the most picturesque locations in the country. These are the most beautiful natural hot springs for your soaking bucket-list.