I have a lot of favorite things. There's just so much out there to do and see and taste and touch and explore!
But I think of all the things- outdoor or otherwise- natural hot springs are on the list of top 10 things that bring my joy.
There’s something so magical about slipping into a steaming natural hot spring, completely surrounded by nature. Unlike any high-end spa or jacuzzi, these waters weren’t designed—they were gifted. Rich in minerals, heated by the Earth itself, and used for centuries for healing, hot springs are one of nature’s greatest luxuries.
The best ones aren’t just pull-off-the-road attractions. The real magic happens when you earn the soak—hiking deep into the wilderness, feeling the cold air on your skin before sinking into the water. The perfect reset for your entire body. Muscle recovery, skin nourishment, stress relief—these pools do it all, no chlorine necessary.
Ever hiked to a hidden hot spring? Where’s your favorite soak in the wild?
Picture is from Jerry Johnson hot springs!
Maybe not a "wilderness" experience in terms of solitude somewhere deep in the woods, BUT the most unique/beautiful/high quality/natural hot springs experience I ever had was at the Orient Land Trust.
Hiking to a hot spring sounds incredible! When I was in Iceland last year I went to Hvammsvik hot springs and it was in the coastal mountains. Definitely a bit fancier, not something you would hike to, but oh my god it was the most beautiful place I've ever been in all my life. It snowed while we were in the hot springs and the mountains were surrounding us. I never wanted to leave. It was freezing cold and windy but being in the springs was heavenly. We warmed up with some yummy fish soup after and were zenned out the entire rest of the trip.
@sarahruth333 This is beyond dreamy!! Iceland is next on my travel list, and I am absolutely adding this as a must-visit when I'm able to get there!! Great tip!