Nestled between the glistening shores of Flathead Lake and the towering peaks of the Swan Mountains, Bigfork, Montana, is a storybook town brimming with outdoor adventure and small-town charm. While many come for hiking, fishing, or art galleries, those in search of tranquility often discover a lesser-known local treasure: Montana’s natural hot springs. Rich in minerals and surrounded by spectacular scenery, these geothermal pools offer a chance to unplug, unwind, and soak your cares away. Whether you’re a weary traveler, a weekend road tripper, or a local looking for serenity, here are the best hot springs near Bigfork for your next relaxing getaway.
Symes Hot Springs Hotel & Mineral Baths
Located in the town of Hot Springs, about an hour and a half from Bigfork, Symes Hot Springs Hotel offers a unique retro charm and therapeutic mineral pools that date back to the 1920s. The water here, naturally heated and rich in minerals like lithium and silica, is believed to ease joint pain and reduce stress. With temperatures ranging between 100-107°F, the outdoor pools invite long, leisurely soaks beneath open skies. The historic hotel also offers spa services, vintage rooms, and live music on weekends, creating a nostalgic, low-key escape that feels frozen in time.
Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort
Approximately a two-hour drive from Bigfork, Quinn’s Hot Springs in Paradise, Montana, is a luxury destination tucked in the heart of the Clark Fork River Valley. The resort boasts multiple outdoor soaking pools with varying temperatures and stunning river and mountain views. Visitors can stay overnight in cozy river lodges or cabins, dine at the on-site Harwood House Restaurant, or unwind with a massage. The resort’s mineral-rich waters are geothermally heated and flow continuously, ensuring fresh, clean soaking every time. With its upscale amenities and serene atmosphere, Quinn’s is a favorite among couples and wellness seekers alike.
Lolo Hot Springs
Lolo Hot Springs is a little further afield—just under three hours from Bigfork—but the scenic drive through the Bitterroot Mountains is well worth it. Known for its rustic, backcountry vibe, Lolo offers both indoor and outdoor hot springs, as well as nearby hiking trails, snowmobile routes, and a casino for those seeking a bit more excitement. Temperatures range between 102-106°F, and the natural mineral water is pumped directly into the soaking areas. Lolo is ideal for those who want to pair their soaking experience with a day of outdoor adventure in true Montana style.
Alameda’s Hot Springs Retreat
This off-the-beaten-path retreat is located in Hot Springs, MT—just like Symes—but offers a much quieter and more meditative environment. Alameda’s emphasizes healing and simplicity, with private soaking tubs in most rooms that are filled with pure geothermal mineral water. The property also features eco-conscious lodging and yoga classes. If you’re looking for solitude and a deep detox from daily life, Alameda’s is a perfect choice. It’s a favorite among artists, writers, and those on spiritual retreats.
Wild Horse Hot Springs
For a more rustic and unfiltered experience, Wild Horse Hot Springs offers an unpretentious soak in the heart of nature. About an hour and a half from Bigfork, this location offers various hand-built soaking tubs set in a field with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The springs are lightly developed, and the vibe is one of back-to-basics simplicity. Wild Horse is ideal for free-spirited travelers who want to connect with the earth while watching stars emerge over quiet Montana skies.
Spa Hot Springs Motel in White Sulphur Springs
If you don’t mind a longer scenic drive—about three and a half hours from Bigfork—the Spa Hot Springs Motel in White Sulphur Springs makes a fantastic road trip destination. With three naturally heated outdoor pools and one indoor pool, all filled with odorless and crystal-clear mineral water, this spot is especially popular with road trippers and locals. It’s affordable, clean, and filled with old-school charm. The pools are drained and refilled daily, ensuring a fresh soak every time.
Bozeman Hot Springs
While Bozeman is about four and a half hours from Bigfork, this all-in-one hot springs, fitness center, and event venue is worth mentioning for those who may be passing through. With 12 different pools ranging from 59 to 106°F, Bozeman Hot Springs offers a wide variety of experiences—from cold plunges to steamy soaks. There's live music on weekends, a full gym, and even a campground nearby. It’s family-friendly and ideal for those looking for a social atmosphere with plenty of amenities.
Tips for Planning Your Hot Springs Getaway
To make the most of your hot springs trip near Bigfork, consider planning around the seasons. Fall and winter provide the most magical contrasts—nothing beats soaking in steaming waters while snowflakes fall gently around you. Don’t forget to pack essentials like water, a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel. Some locations require reservations, especially during peak travel months, so always check ahead. And if you're combining your soak with an overnight stay, explore local lodging options early to ensure availability.
Natural Healing in Montana’s Backyard
The hot springs around Bigfork are more than just beautiful destinations—they're a form of natural therapy. These geothermal treasures have long been used by Indigenous peoples and later settlers for their healing properties. Today, they continue to offer a timeless escape from the digital noise and pace of modern life. Whether you seek luxurious accommodations, rustic wilderness vibes, or simply a quiet corner to reflect and recharge, you’ll find your oasis among Montana’s steamy mineral springs.
The Final Soak: A Blissful Way to Recharge
There’s something soul-soothing about slipping into warm mineral water while gazing at Montana’s big sky. It’s a pause button, a moment to breathe deeply and let go. Whether you're staying for a weekend or just passing through, these hot springs near Bigfork provide a much-needed respite from the rush of everyday life. Pair them with a scenic drive, a cozy cabin, and maybe a stop at a local bakery—and you’ve got the recipe for the perfect relaxing getaway.
Your Perfect Home Base for Hot Springs and More
If you find yourself dreaming of living close to nature’s best-kept secrets, reach out to real estate expert Heidi Lane. With deep local knowledge and a passion for helping clients discover their dream Montana lifestyle, Heidi can guide you to properties near Bigfork that offer peace, privacy, and proximity to these restorative hot springs. Whether it’s a vacation cabin or forever home, Heidi is here to help you soak it all in—every day.