Trip planning

A Hot Springs Road Trip Through the American West

Last updated October 22, 2026 · 2 min read

The western US has more hot springs than anywhere else in the country, and linking them into a road trip is one of the great American drives. This loop of about two weeks takes in mountain resorts, red-rock desert, Idaho river canyons and the Oregon high desert.

Days 1 to 3: Colorado

Start in Denver and head west on I-70 to Glenwood Springs for the giant pool and Iron Mountain’s riverside pools. Continue to Ouray and Ridgway in the San Juans. See our Colorado guide.

Days 4 and 5: Utah

Drive west to Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe for travertine tubs, then north toward Fifth Water near Provo.

Days 6 to 9: Idaho

Head north into Idaho. Soak at Kirkham on Highway 21, then continue to Stanley and the Salmon River. Hike to Goldbug near Salmon. See our Idaho guide.

Days 10 and 11: Oregon high desert

Drive southwest across the high desert to Alvord Hot Springs beneath Steens Mountain. Fill up on fuel before you go. See our Oregon guide.

Days 12 to 14: Nevada and the Eastern Sierra

Cross northern Nevada to Reno, then drive south on US 395 to Travertine near Bridgeport and the Long Valley springs near Mammoth. See our California guide.

Budget and logistics

Many natural springs are free; developed pools cost about $15 to $60 per person.
Camping is plentiful on public land, but check local rules.
Fuel stops can be far apart in Nevada and Oregon.

Tips

Check every spring’s status the day before.
Do not plan more than two soaks a day.
Follow our packing list and etiquette guide.

Springs in this guide

Frequently asked questions

What is the best season for a western hot springs road trip?

September and October are ideal: rivers are low, roads are open and the weather is cool enough to enjoy hot water. Late spring is good for desert springs but brings high rivers.

How many hot springs can you visit in a day?

Two is comfortable, three at most. Long drives and the time it takes to change, soak and cool down add up.