Yellowstone Hot Springs near Gardiner, MT

Q: Is it suitable for kids and what should we know?

Yes, kid-friendly with shallow areas; supervise children; water is provided; keep glass out of the facility.

Q: Is the price worth it compared to other options?

Adult entry is $18; kids and seniors have lower rates, towels are $4; overall, it’s a low-cost, flexible soak with on-site amenities.

Q: What if I have to cancel or change plans due to weather?

There is no listed deposit or reservation; weather-related closures are possible, but no formal cancellation policy exists for standard hours.

Q: Will I be able to handle the temperature differences safely?

Yes, start with the main pool, then acclimate through the warm to hot pools and finish with the cold plunge carefully; staff can explain proper usage.

+2 more

Type

Hot Springs soaking

Overview

About This Activity

Three temperature pools offer a relaxed soak with flexible day-use access. You can come and go all day, with staff available to explain pool etiquette. Kneipp-style hot-to-cold transitions are a noted tip for the experience.

Highlights

Book If / Skip If

BOOK IF: You want a simple, affordable, and flexible soak with family-friendly setup. SKIP IF: You seek a guided, exclusive experience or need guaranteed space during peak times

What Makes It Unique

Three temperature pools with all-day access and self-guided soaking

The White Glove Test

Walk-up accessibility; staff on-site to explain how to use the pools; parking available; no-appointment process; no need to bring extra gear

The Smart Move

Book if you want flexible, no-commitment access; otherwise just show up. Discounts apply with ID; no reservation required for regular hours

Best Time to Visit

Morning or evening visits tend to be less crowded; summer is the peak period for Yellowstone, so weekdays may also help avoid crowds.

Activity Tips

Bring a swimsuit and water bottle; towels can be rented for $4.
Leave glass at home; no pool toys allowed.
Consider the Kneipp walk between pools for an invigorating transition.
Plan for a relaxed pace—you can enter/exit throughout the day.

Details

Activity Details

Type: Hot Springs soaking

Options: Self-guided soak; access to hot pool, main pool, and cold plunge; on-site changing rooms and lockers

Locations: Gardiner, MT; Yellowstone Hot Springs site

Wildlife: Expect opportunities to spot bison and elk, with occasional grizzly and black bears, wolves, coyotes, and a variety of raptors in the surrounding valleys and along the Yellowstone River near Gardiner and the park's north entrance.

Educational content included

Pricing

Group discounts available
Senior discounts available
Military discounts available

Requirements

Skill Levels:

Fitness Level: No specific fitness level required; relaxing activity

Health Considerations:

Consult a physician regarding hot pool use for infants; no alcohol, tobacco, vaping, or pets allowed; no glass containers

What to Wear: Proper swim attire; mindful of children and families; no pool toys; no glass containers

Equipment & Rentals

Available: Swimsuits, towels; towel rental; lockers

Rental Periods:

What's Provided:

Access to hot, main, and cold pools; changing rooms with toilets and showers; cubbies/lockers

What to Bring:

• Swimsuit; towel (or towel rental for $4) • Water bottle

Safety briefing provided

Booking & Hours

Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Check-in: N/A; walk-up allowed during normal hours

Book Ahead: Not required

Cancellation:

No reservations required during normal hours; no deposit or cancellation policy listed

Parking available

Accessibility:

On-site parking is available. The facility provides a level entry with a ramp to the doorway, accessible restrooms, and clear wayfinding signs.

Family Info:

Kid-friendly with shallow areas; supervise children; glass prohibited

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.5 /5

Based on 1016 Google reviews

Based on 1016 guest reviews

" The soak is a reliable way to unwind after park visits; guests note cleanliness and friendly staff; crowds can fluctuate with peak season"

Reviews from Google

It was an amazing and truly relaxing experience, exactly what we needed to relieve the accumulated stress. The views, as expected in such a beautiful National Park, were absolutely breathtaking. The natural setting is just incredible. The overall experience was amazing, but if there is one area for improvement, it would be the facilities—specifically, the toilets should be improved for cleanliness and maintenance. Besides that minor issue, this spot is highly recommended for rejuvenation.

We recently celebrated my husband’s 40th birthday at Yellowstone Hot Springs in Gardiner, MT, and it was absolutely perfect! From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. The staff truly cares about the property and their guests, which is something you don’t find everywhere. They went above and beyond by decorating my husband’s suite for his birthday—it made the trip feel so personal and special. The suites are gorgeous, with every detail thoughtfully done, and the views from the hot springs are simply breathtaking. Sitting in the pools, surrounded by mountains, was pure magic. My personal favorite was the kneipp walk experience—what a unique and refreshing ritual! And let’s not forget the excellent coffee—a small detail, but it made the mornings even better. This place is a true bucket-list destination, and we left feeling refreshed, celebrated, and already planning our next visit. If you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, beauty, and genuine hospitality, Yellowstone Hot Springs is the place to go!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Drive to the Gold Fork Hot Springs was 6 1/2 miles off highway 4 miles on a dirt road next to a mountain stream nice drive . Upon arrival it’s set in the side of the mountain and shaded from the west sun. Greeted nicely $18 dollars for two hours which was plenty. Nice range of hot Springs (6) at different temperatures from 100 to 108 degrees. Snacks and drinks available for a price. Nice changing room with lockers. No showers. Beautiful setting. I enjoyed it very much and will go back again.

Showing 3 of 1016 reviews

FAQs

Do I need a booking or can I just show up?

No booking required during normal hours; walk-ups are fine and you can soak all day.

Is it suitable for kids and what should we know?

Is the price worth it compared to other options?

What if I have to cancel or change plans due to weather?

Will I be able to handle the temperature differences safely?

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Yellowstone Hot Springs