Other Hot Springs Near Missoula, Montana
Tired of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs near Missoula? Check out this comprehensive list of other Hot Springs within close driving distance from Missoula, Montana you can check out this winter.
Your Guide to Soaks, Views, and Relaxation Within 2 Hours of Missoula, Montana
So you’ve loved the Jerry Johnson Hot Springs post (and if you haven’t read it, check it out!) and now you’re ready for more Montana hot spring adventures. Lucky for you, Missoula is surrounded by some incredible natural soaks within a short drive, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re chasing rustic vibes, spa luxury, or just a quiet soak in nature, there’s something for everyone.
Quinn’s Hot Springs – Paradise, MT
~2 hours west of Missoula
Vibe: Family-friendly resort with cozy indoor and outdoor pools, riverside views, and a rustic but comfortable atmosphere
Good For: Families, couples, and anyone wanting a full resort experience
Address: 915 Quinn’s Hot Springs Rd, Paradise, MT
Hours: Pools typically open 8am–10pm (check seasonally)
Parking: On-site lot
Kid-Friendly Perks: Kids welcome, large pools, family cabins, and easy access to the river
Fun to Note: Perfect for a weekend getaway — enjoy the spa, soak with a view, and maybe try a sunset stroll along the riverbank.
Lolo Hot Springs – Lolo, MT
~45 min south of Missoula
Vibe: Small, rustic, and serene, with indoor and outdoor pools and mountain views
Good For: Families and adults seeking a peaceful soak close to Missoula
Address: 43575 US-12, Lolo, MT
Hours: 10am–8pm (seasonal)
Parking: On-site
Kid-Friendly Perks: Pools safe for older kids, picnic areas, and cozy cabins for overnight stays
Fun to Note: Ideal for a quick soak after a Missoula hike, or as a base for exploring the surrounding Lolo National Forest.
Garnet Hot Springs – Garnet, MT
~1 hr 30 min east of Missoula
Vibe: Remote, rustic, and adventurous — natural pools with historic ghost town vibes nearby
Good For: Families with older kids or adults seeking solitude and a little history
Address: Off Garnet Range Road, Garnet, MT (look for trailhead parking)
Hours: Dawn to dusk; hike-in access
Parking: Small lot at trailhead
Kid-Friendly Perks: Older kids who enjoy hiking will love this adventure; bring water and snacks
Fun to Note: Pair your soak with a ghost town exploration — a true Montana backcountry experience.
Goldbug Hot Springs – Near Elk City, MT
~2 hours southwest of Missoula
Vibe: Remote cliffside pools with stunning mountain and river views
Good For: Adults and adventurous families with older kids
Address: Trailhead near Elk City, MT (hike required)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset; trail access only
Parking: Small lot at trailhead
Kid-Friendly Perks: Older kids only (moderate hike)
Fun to Note: Incredible for photography, sunsets, and that feeling of soaking in your own private cliffside hot spring.
Drummond Hot Springs – Drummond, MT
~1 hr 45 min northeast of Missoula
Vibe: Quiet, low-key, natural pools in a forested area
Good For: Adults, families, or anyone looking for a calm day trip
Address: Off local roads near Drummond, MT
Hours: Open dawn to dusk; no formal facilities
Parking: Small pull-off area
Kid-Friendly Perks: Easy access pools, good for picnics
Fun to Note: Pack a lunch and enjoy the peaceful forest surroundings — it’s one of Montana’s hidden gems.
Chico Hot Springs – Pray, MT
~2 hours southeast of Missoula
Vibe: Historic, upscale resort with indoor and outdoor hot springs, spa services, and fine dining
Good For: Families, couples, and adults looking for a more luxurious soak
Address: 431 Hot Springs Rd, Pray, MT
Hours: 6am–10pm for pools; check resort for spa services
Parking: On-site
Kid-Friendly Perks: Family-friendly pool hours, cabins, and resort amenities
Fun to Note: Make a full weekend out of it — soak, dine, and enjoy live music at the resort.
Fairmont Hot Springs – Anaconda, MT
~1 hr 30 min southwest of Missoula
Vibe: Large resort with multiple pools, water slides, and full-service amenities
Good For: Families, kids, and multi-generational trips
Address: 198 Hot Springs Rd, Anaconda, MT
Hours: 7am–10pm (check seasonally)
Parking: On-site lot
Kid-Friendly Perks: Water slides, kid-friendly pools, easy-access resort accommodations
Fun to Note: Perfect for a day trip or overnight stay — combine a soak with golf, spa treatments, or a scenic drive.
Tips for Visiting Montana Hot Springs
Timing: Weekdays are quieter; summer weekends can be busy.
Gear: Bring towels, water shoes, and water bottles. Some natural springs are remote, so pack snacks.
Etiquette: Respect nature — pack out trash and follow posted rules.
Family Considerations: Some hot springs are better for older kids or adults only, so check before you go.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs near Missoula. Click the image to see the full post.
Montana is blessed with hot springs for all kinds of adventurers — from rustic and remote natural pools to full-service resorts with spa and dining options. Whether you’re soaking after a long hike, planning a relaxing weekend getaway, or chasing an epic sunset, there’s a spring near Missoula that fits the bill.
And while The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins may be closed for the winter season, you can plan your summer stay with us now. Montana is chilly in May, early June, September, and October, but you can still enjoy a soak at any of these hot springs—or simply relax in our shared hot tub under the pines with mountain views, perfect for warming up after an adventure-filled day.
Explore Jerry Johnson Hot Springs near Missoula, Montana
Exploring Jerry Johnson Hot Spring in Winter near Missoula, Montana
One of our many favorite wintertime activities in Montana is stripping down to almost nothing and soaking our aching bodies in the hot waters of a natural hot spring. The feeling of driving through icy roads, then hiking in snowy conditions while seeing your breath and wondering, “Why would I take off my clothes now? It’s winter!”
For me, the tingles throughout my body (similar to those in a hot tub but better because I’m in chemical-free water) make the trip totally worth it!
where is Jerry johnson hot springs?
Jerry Johnson Hot Spring is located 84 miles from The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins and takes about 1:45 hours. Located in Clearwater National Forest in Idaho, you’ll actually be on Idaho time when you arrive (one hour behind Montana).
This is a beautiful drive to this year-round family destination, it takes you through the meandering roads of Lolo Pass. In the wintertime, it is extra photogenic, making you feel like you’re driving through Winter’s Wonderland.
Lochsa River on the way to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
how long of a hike is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
There are three hot springs sources and the hike generally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour (depending on your speed and fitness level) to cover 1.3 miles one way (2.6-mile roundtrip). It is considered an easy hike, but in the wintertime, because the trail is heavily treed and the snow has a harder time melting, it is recommended to bring crampons for easier walking.
The trailhead parking lot is called Warm Springs After parking, cross Highway 12 and the pack bridge over the Lochsa River. Take a right to follow Warm Springs Trail #49 south along the creek for about one mile.
Start of the trail - crossing the Lochsa River on the way to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs.
Are dogs allowed at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
Yes, this hot spring is pet-friendly and dogs need to be on a leash. No dogs are allowed in hot springs.
Is Jerry Johnson Hot Springs Clothing Optional?
Yes, like many natural hot springs, Jerry Johnson is clothing optional, allowing you to soak freely in ways you feel comfortable.
There are no facilities (except for the bathroom at the beginning of the trail across the road).
Searching for pool #1 at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Are there fees at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs?
No, there are no fees, it is a free hot springs site.
Camping at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
There is no overnight camping at Jerry Johnson. It is designated for day use only. There is a campground one mile from the Warm Springs.
whats the ‘glitter’ in the water at jerry johnson hot springs?
The elevated levels of sulfur (glitter-looking particles) in hot spring waters offer antifungal and antibacterial properties that can soothe and even help heal the skin. Healing hot spring waters can also improve skin irritations and conditions.
“Soakers enjoy reduced stress levels when spending time in natural hot springs.”
Pool #3 at Jerry Johnson Hot Spring
After a rejuvenating soak at Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, just a scenic two-hour drive from Missoula, unwind even more by staying at The Hohnstead Glamping Cabins—a peaceful, pet-friendly retreat nestled in the forest only 25 minutes from Missoula, Montana. Our off-grid cabins offer the perfect way to disconnect from screens and the daily grind, with stargazing nights and an adventurous scavenger hunt to keep your spirit of exploration alive. Make your trip a full nature escape by pairing the soothing springs with cozy nights under the stars at The Hohnstead (open May - October of each year).
