Exploring Jackson Hole’s Hot Springs

Hot springs have been prized for thousands of years for bathing, relaxation, and their alleged therapeutic properties. Thanks to its proximity to Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, WY, is home to multiple hot springs, from remote oases to complete spa retreats. Here’s all you need to know if you plan on visiting Jackson Hole’s hot springs this winter.

Hot Springs Eternal

A hot spring is a spring heated by geothermal activity, meaning the Earth itself warms it. In Jackson Hole, this is due to volcanic activity from nearby Yellowstone. Because of their elevated temperatures, hot springs have high mineral content, which is believed to lend them medicinal properties. They’ve been used to treat everything from lead poisoning to ankylosing spondylitis!

While the areas around Yellowstone have numerous hot springs, many of them aren’t safe for bathing. They’re either far too hot, contain dangerous bacteria, or have a chemical composition that isn’t conducive to having skin. There’s a reason why people don’t use Old Faithful as a splash pad, after all.

The Jackson Hole hot springs have much more comfortable temperatures, ranging from 80-112°F. They’re also curated and maintained, providing a much safer experience. These hot springs are perfect for muscle relaxation, improved circulation, and stress relief.

Why Does This Jackson Hole Hot Spring Have Tiled Walls?

If you’re expecting a Japanese-style onsen with rocky walls and macaques lounging in the water, you might be disappointed to find out that many of Jackson Hole’s hot springs look more like swimming pools. They look clearly artificial, because they are. Hot springs typically don’t form convenient soaking pools for people to relax in. Not without some help, anyway. However, rest assured that these are 100% natural hot springs. All the water is sourced from a geothermal spring and heated by geothermal forces.

A Tale of Two Hot Springs

There are two public hot spring pools in Jackson Hole, each offering a distinct experience.

A Jackson Hole Hot Spring for Families: Astoria Hot Springs Park

The first stop on our tour of Jackson Hole hot springs is Astoria Hot Springs Park, overlooking the Snake River. These are the most accessible and most developed hot springs in Jackson Hole, just 20 minutes from town by car. They’re a good option for families, people with mobility issues, or people who want to relax and don’t mind a bit of a crowd.

Astoria uses flow-through pools, where mineral water from hot springs is constantly refreshed. The largest is the Leisure Pool, with an average temperature of about 98°F. If that’s too cold, the Meadow, Riverside, and Waterfall pools average about 102°F and offer a more intimate experience for small groups. There’s also a cold plunge pool for pre- or post- soak chilling.

The only chlorinated thermal pool in the park is dedicated to children and uses a specialized water-circulation system rather than the flow-through systems used by the other pools. It’s also significantly cooler, at about 85°F, so that it won’t burn the little ones.

The Astoria Park Conservancy offers a variety of amenities, including a snack bar, picnic area, and playground. The Hot Springs Park also offers wellness talks, live performances, swim lessons, and private event hosting. If you’re looking for a more curated, easily accessible experience, Astoria Hot Springs is your top choice.

A Jackson Hole Hot Spring For Adventurers: Granite Hot Springs

Our next stop is much more exclusive: not due to price, but due to location. The Granite Hot Springs Pool is located in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, a full hour from Jackson. While you can drive there in summer, it’s only accessible by snowmobile, dog sled, or fat bike in the winter months.

Built in the 1930s, Granite Hot Springs has a much more natural vibe than Astoria, with wooden siding and snow-capped rocks right next to the water. The mountain views make this feel like a special place, and its secluded nature adds to the appeal.

A trip to Granite is more of a wilderness adventure than a spa day. There are no amenities at the springs, not even potable water. You’ll need to bring your own supplies (including a water bottle) and pay for admission in cash. If you’re a first-timer visiting in winter, we recommend booking a guided dog-sled or snowmobile tour.

Which Jackson Hole Hot Spring Is Right for You?

Both of Jackson Hole’s hot springs offer different experiences, so we’ve broken down some key details to help you decide where to spend your hot springs day.

• Admission: Admission to Astoria Hot Springs costs $25 for adults and $18 for children, with discounts for locals. Granite Hot Springs charges $12 for adults and $7 for children, but guided tours can be significantly more expensive. Advanced reservations are recommended for both locations.
• Accessibility: Astoria is accessible by car year-round and is ADA-compliant. The Leisure and Meadow pools also include water chairs for guests with mobility challenges. Granite Hot Springs is not ADA-accessible, and can only be accessed by car during the summer.
• Amenities: Astoria offers a snack bar, picnic area, playground, and cold plunge pool. Granite Hot Springs has no amenities. Alcohol can be purchased at Astoria, but is not allowed at Granite.
• Scenery: Astoria Hot Springs park overlooks the Snake River and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The pools here appear artificial but are regularly cleaned and maintained. Granite Hot Springs is located in the heart of Bridger-Teton National Forest and offers spectacular views of nature and wildlife. It also looks more natural than the pools at Astoria, though that may mean it doesn’t appear as clean.

In short, choose Astoria if you’re looking for a relaxing hot springs day and don’t want to handle logistics. Choose Granite if you’re looking for a wilderness adventure where a soak in the hot springs is the reward for a long trek.

Hot Springs Travel Tips

If you’re visiting Jackson Hole’s hot springs, keep the following tips in mind.

• Book in Advance: Capacity in the springs is limited, and passes sell out quickly.
• Wear a bathing suit: Bathing suits are required at all Jackson Hole hot springs, so be sure to pack one. You’ll also want a dry change of clothes for after you’re done soaking.
• Keep it Clean: We know many people ignore the recommendation to shower before entering the pool, but it’s essential to do so both before and after bathing in a hot spring. Except for the children’s pool at Astoria, none of the local hot springs pools in Jackson Hole are chlorinated. The warm temperatures also make it easier for certain bacteria and microflora to survive in hot springs than in a traditional swimming pool. Take a shower before and after you soak, and avoid ducking your head under the water.
• Pace Yourself: Depending on the spring temperature and your personal heat tolerance, limit your soaking time. Never soak for more than two hours at a time, and take regular breaks.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle, especially if going to Granite. You sweat a lot in a hot spring, and the water you’re soaking in isn’t meant for drinking.
• Be Considerate: You’ll be sharing the springs with other guests. Yes, even at Granite. Be quiet, and clean up after yourself.

Visiting Jackson Hole’s Hot Springs? Stay At The Virginian Lodge

Looking for a place to stay during your trip to Jackson Hole? The Virginian Lodge offers a boutique experience that is the perfect base for your hot springs adventures. This western-inspired lodge has a lot to offer, so let’s take a quick tour.

Retro Rooms

Each room at The Virginian is inspired by classic motor lodges, combining modern style with retro flair. The furniture is midcentury modern with a western twist, and the wood-panelled walls and Pendleton wool textiles. All of these classic details are elevated, combining nostalgia and luxury to make you feel right at home.

On-Site Amenities

Beyond the rooms, the Virginian Lodge offers amenities designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible. To start, the resort features two restaurants, a saloon, and a drive-thru liquor and convenience store, making it easy to stock up on supplies during your stay. Whether you’re craving a homestyle breakfast, a massive burger, or a boozy slushie, you can find it at the Virginian. Oh, and the best of Jackson Hole is just outside, so there’s no shortage of incredible food.

If Jackson Hole’s hot springs aren’t enough for you, The Virginian Lodge offers even more opportunities for a warm soak. The heated pool is ideal for a quick dip, while the oversized hot tubs are ideal for relaxing on those winter nights. They’re not exactly hot springs, but they are right outside your door.

For socializing outside of the water, The Virginian Lodge offers multiple fire pits and a lobby lounge with complimentary hot drinks. During the winter, there are pop-up igloos and complementary shuttles to Jackson Hole’s ski resorts.

FAQs

Here are some common questions we found while researching this article. Hopefully, they can help you when planning your Jackson Hole hot spring adventure.

How Many Hot Springs Are There in Jackson Hole?

There’s no concrete number, but for open-to-the-public, safe-to-use options, your options are limited to Astoria Hot Springs Park and Granite Hot Springs. Some AI summaries erroneously claim the Kelly Warm Springs are open for soaking. This is false: while Kelly Warm Springs is a scenic picnic spot in Grand Teton National Park, it is not safe for bathing. The water contains dangerous bacteria, as well as Naegleria fowleri, AKA brain-eating amoeba.

If you decide to go looking for backcountry hot springs, you’re taking a significant risk to your health. Unmanaged hot springs can reach dangerously high temperatures. They can also contain caustic chemicals or infectious microflora. The ground around these springs is brittle, so there is also a risk of collapse, which could dump you into the water. If you want to hike to a remote hot spring, choose the safe option: Granite.

Can You Get Sick From Hot Springs?

The hot springs mentioned in this article are safe for bathing, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely risk-free. While the risk of getting sick is vanishingly small, you can further minimize it by showering before and after your soak and keeping your head above water at all times.

For your safety and the safety of others, avoid bathing while sick or with an open wound.

Are Hot Springs Safe For Kids?

Yes, but you need to take precautions. Children can soak in water up to 102°F for up to 15 minutes at a time. Afterwards, they need to take a break. While they can get into a cooler pool if one is available, it’s best to remind them to rehydrate during these breaks. Very young children and infants should stick to the Children’s Pool.

Never leave your children unattended at a hot spring, and do not let them dunk their heads below the water. In addition to the inherent risks of any swimming area, they also run the risk of burns and infection, so exercise a little bit of extra caution.

Should I Use a Hot Spring While Pregnant?

This isn’t recommended, especially during the first trimester, as high temperatures can harm the baby. Talk to a doctor before taking the plunge.

Are Food and Drinks Allowed at the Hot Springs?

Neither Astoria nor Granite allows food inside the hot springs, though you may eat outside the water. Beverages are permitted, provided they are not in glass containers. Astoria does not allow outside alcohol, but does sell alcohol on-site. Alcohol is not permitted at Granite Hot Springs under any circumstances.

Can I Visit the Hot Springs in the Summer?

Yes! Both Astoria and Granite are open year-round, and Granite Hot Springs is actually more accessible during warmer months.

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