Dip into Paradise at Yellowstone Hot Springs
April 2024
article by jamie blotske | photos by nathan satran
The essence of Big Sky Country is found in the heart of paradise… Paradise Valley, that is. The wonder of the West is defined by this area, just a short 2.5-hour drive from Billings. It encompasses the quintessential imagery that comes to mind when dreaming of a Montana getaway: a picturesque river valley nestled between two mountain ranges, the Absaroka Range on the east and the Gallatin Range on the west; it is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, wildlife photographers and those simply looking to relax and recharge. Travelers from all over the country come to savor a sample of this slice of heaven, this captivating corner of the world we call home.
In 2019, the doors officially opened to Montana’s newest soaking experience, Yellowstone Hot Springs. Visitors from near and far have flocked to its pools of mineral-rich waters, benefiting from its healing properties while basking in its 360-degree mountain views. Relaxation and rejuvenation are the name of the game, and we are privileged to have this luxurious hot spring resort in our very own backyard!
A Unique Way to Unwind
While there are several hot spring facilities across the state, Yellowstone Hot Springs is uniquely its own, offering experiences unlike any other. The first thing to note is its prime location! Only 10 minutes north of Yellowstone National Park, it is truly a destination sought out by people worldwide. Many of us can attest to the satisfying feeling of a well-deserved soak after exploring one of the nation’s most prized national parks.
The pools at YHS are unique. With three options, the hot pool ranges from 103-105 degrees Fahrenheit, the main pool from 98-100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the cold plunge pool at a chilly 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit. YHS also offers the Kneipp Walk, “A rare find in the U.S. inspired by European spa traditions; this pathway comprises two parallel, shallow pools—one hot and one cold—lined with river rocks. As you amble through, the combination of rocks and a refreshing 40-degree temperature difference induces a profound sense of revitalization,” explained staff member, Erin Kennedy.
Yellowstone Hot Springs Kneipp Walk
The water at YHS is unique. The geothermal waters are chemical-free, eco-friendly, and continually circulating at an impressive 70,000 gallons every eight hours! This state-of-the-art flow-through system maintains the pristine pools that lure you to soak away the day's stress. You can rest easy, knowing no artificial additives or harmful chemicals are seeping into your skin.
Stay a While
Why stay a day when a weekend away has never been more accommodating than it is at Yellowstone Hot Springs? Several lodging options make an extended stay possible for any traveler. Are you looking to camp? YHS has RV and tent sites located right along the Yellowstone River. Don’t have a tent or home on wheels? No problem, opt for one of four cozy cabins, each with its own private entrance, bathroom with a shower, food prep area, TV, free wi-fi, and heating/air conditioning. The cabins sleep 4-6 people and are pet and smoke-free.
Introducing the resort’s latest and greatest addition to its overnight accommodations, The Suites at Yellowstone Hot Springs invite you to experience the beautiful blend of local charm and luxury. These apartment-style suites provide everything needed to have the perfect stay, with separate living and sleeping areas, a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom with a shower, smart TVs in each bedroom, high-speed wi-fi, fireplace, air-conditioning to control your comfort level, and stylish décor with premium furnishings, giving each suite its own character and personality. With one one-bedroom and four two-bedroom suites, there is plenty of space to comfortably host a small family, a group of friends, or a couple seeking the ideal romantic getaway. The suites sleep 4-6 people and are also pet and smoke-free. Be mindful of a minimum night stay requirement when booking your cabin or suite online.
Relax and Renew
The mantra at Yellowstone Hot Springs is just that: relax and renew. Whether you choose a morning soak to breathe in the crisp mountain air, a mid-day dip to take in the surrounding sights, or an evening plunge to wash away the day underneath the stars, Yellowstone Hot Springs is the place to be for a true-to-life Big Sky Country encounter. It’s important to note that YHS is a family-friendly establishment and does not allow alcohol. Please respect the guidelines, as they are set to ensure that each person has a pleasant experience from the moment they enter and exit the resort.
Consider this your personal invite to stay and play at the hot springs just outside of Gardiner, Montana. The doors are open year-round (as are the gates to Yellowstone National Park), making it a convenient travel destination for all four seasons. Each season brings its own unique feel with varying sights, smells, and sounds, making this resort a location worthy of multiple visits. Pull out that calendar and plan a day trip or a weekend stay. There’s no better time than now to submerge yourself in a soaking sensation unlike any other – the pools of Paradise Valley, better known as Yellowstone Hot Springs.
Originally printed in the April 2024 issue of Simply Local Magazine
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