Wyoming’s Hot Springs State Park
Written By: Sarah Reish
I know this is sad, but having been to Thermopolis so many times you’d think I would have taken the time to drive through, but this was my first time visiting Hot Springs State Park. This should be a regular weekend activity for all of us living here in Wyoming because the state park is stunning. And if we are going to write about hot springs this was the location to do it.
First Impression
I will be the first to admit I am easily wowed and excitable, so driving under the archway and onto a charming street lined with stunning trees bursting with fall colors only added to my giddiness and excitement of finally arriving. You see, not only had I never been here before but this was my first experience in a hot spring. The grass was still lush and green and the leaves were wearing bright yellows, reds and oranges which lended to the serene feeling that settled over us during our stay.
The Amenities
This state park was established in 1897 and offers loads of amenities that you can enjoy. There are two hotels within the state park that include hot spring pools and hot tubs. Picnic areas and lawns for outdoor recreation are also available. There are drives you can take to explore the park as well as over 6 miles of walking and hiking trails. We drove through to see the bison and went on a couple of the trails to explore some amazing features in the park. There is also camping! With stunning scenery and hot springs you won’t want to skip this location next time you plan to camp out.
Hot Spots
There are definite hot spots we enjoyed. Some areas you can see from the car, but get out and take a closer look. There are some cool areas you will need to walk to in order to experience them. It is amazing that certain areas have been left untouched and in their natural form and the park provides access for a closer look.
White Sulphur Spring
An attraction since 1890, this spring has seen a lot. It originally featured a bathhouse and dance pavilion although the structure burned down less than ten years after being built. The area includes parking space and a path and stairway to view the hot spring. The stone landing area and stairs were built in the depression-era by the Work Projects Administration (WPA). The steps take you down the hillside and put you directly in front of the spring. You can step over it and explore the area a bit closer, which I really enjoyed. It is not often you can get that close to a hot spring source. The spring feeds directly into the Bighorn River.
Swinging Bridge
This suspension bridge offers park guests access across the Bighorn River to a viewing area for a different perspective of the mineral hot spring terraces. The path from parking circles around the hot spring bringing visitors up close to the mineral pools. Half way around the pool you can choose to continue on the path or take a detour across the river to view the terraces which would otherwise not be visible. It is stunning and well worth the stop.
State Bath House
This is a must experience! This free bath house offers state park visitors access to experience the healing mineral waters at their best. Attendees are available to assist guests. The waters are maintained at 104 degrees and the bath house is open 8 am - 1 pm daily year round except in the winter when they close on holidays.
The Details
Here is everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Hours: Open Year Round 6 am - 10 pm
Fees in State: State Park, Archeological Site and Recreation Areas $7 day fee per vehicle + $10 over night.
Brochure: Digital and downloadable for print.
Pets are allowed in the park on leashes, however are not allowed in the mineral pools.
Don’t forget:
Towel
Sunscreen
Sandals
Soaps (mineral water has a distinct mineral smell)
Hiking shoes for the trails!
Day Trip!
Make it a day trip. Spend the morning exploring and then relax in the mineral pool at the State Bath House. Enjoy a picnic lunch and then check out the amazing archeological site. Take photos and share them on social media. Remember to tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld
