Many moons ago, Cheyenne, Ute and Arapaho Native American’s agreed on one thing — the healing waters of the natural hot springs in Saratoga, Wyoming, should be open to all. Dubbed the “place of magic waters’, these soothing pools of water became neutral ground. You can explore the hot springs and soak your cares away in the great outdoors any time of year, including wintertime.
Saratoga, Wyoming’s name is derived from the unique and popular hot springs, inspired by the famous warm water destination of Saratoga Springs, New York. Many natural springs are actually ice-cold in Wyoming, yet Saratoga’s hot springs emerge at a wonderful 90 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat originates from a natural heat gradient located deep underground. Although heat is available everywhere under Earth's crust, it takes a rare system of fractures to allow rainwater to reach deep into the Earth's crust and re-emerge as a hot spring. The process may take thousands of years, so the warm water enjoyed today is a relic of snows or rains of past millennia.
Beyond just feeling good, heated mineral water has been used to treat various ailments for centuries. The practice even has a name — balneotherapy. When you ease into a hot spring, muscles and joints naturally relax. Add in the minerals found in hot springs and your skin will glow and your body is sure to feel good.
You can enjoy the hot springs for free any time of year, 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, at the Hobo Hot Springs. The historic Saratoga Hot Pool is located on the banks of the Platte River, where a bathhouse was constructed that is now a locker room for visitors. Water temperatures in the hot pool range from 101 to 120 degrees, with one section called the Lobster Pot reaching 120 degrees. The hot pool exits out to the river where you can take a refreshing cooling dip or wade through the waters along the banks of the North Platte River. Plus, you’ll find a swimming pool, restrooms and changing facilities on-site (all currently closed due to COVID-19).
Nestled between the Snowy Range and the Sierra Madre Mountain Range on the Upper North Platte River is an immersive hot springs experience at the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort. When you stay at this expansive property, you can swim in the 70-foot mineral hot springs swimming pool and soak under a teepee in small covered hot pools. The resort also offers the Healing Waters Spa at the back of the mineral hot spring courtyard. Guests and the public are welcome to relax and rejuvenate through a variety of spa treatments offered in what was once the original State Bath House built in 1902.
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort is a gateway destination in Saratoga. This rustic yet elegant resort and spa offers everything from outdoor adventures to gourmet delights. When old man winter drops hundreds of inches of snow, you’ll find fun adventures abound in the Snowy Range. In fact, this is one of the few places you can rent snowmobiles to explore the backcountry and hopefully catch sight of some resident wildlife. After you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll find delectable dishes at The Snowy Mountain Pub & Biergarten, sure to satisfy any palate. Taste the craft beer scene at the Snowy Mountain Brewery, Wyoming’s 3rd oldest craft brewery located right on-site.
