Lost Trail Hot Springs | Southwest Montana

• Lost Trail Hot Springs was a rest stop for travelers crossing the Continental Divide
• If you are lucky, an authentic wood-fired pizza truck will be at the springs when you visit

Lost Trail Hot Springs, formerly Gallogly Hot Springs, is a rustic mountain resort in the Bitterroot National Forest.

The hot springs had been a rest stop for travelers crossing the Continental Divide through the Gibbons Pass for a long time. The ancient trail ascends 2,000 feet within just three miles. It is a challenging trek, so this geothermal spot was like an island of rest before climbing over the pass.

The first hotel was built here in 1895. The springs changed ownership multiple times over the years, and now it is a well-developed family resort.

In addition to hot mineral soaking, the area is a popular place for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers during winter and for hikers during summer. You can swing by the Lost Trail Hot Springs to take a refreshing dip with a day pass or stay overnight.

Geothermal Water & Soaking

The geothermal mineral water comes from the source at 107° F (42° C) and then pipped into an outdoor swimming pool and an indoor soaking tub.

The outdoor pool is 20 ft x 70 ft with just 10 inches of depth on the shallow side, gradually increasing to 9 feet. The temperature at the pool is 95° F (35° C).

During the cold months, it is covered by a large dome resembling a greenhouse to protect swimmers from the elements.

The indoor hot tub temperature is 103° F (39° C) in winter and 105° F (41° C) in summer.

The pool and the tub are both flow-through, so no chemical treatment is needed.

After a full day of hiking and adventures, you can also relax in the resort's dry sauna.

This is a developed, family-friendly soaking spot, so swimwear is mandatory.

Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort has cabins for smaller groups and lodges for larger groups (up to 42 people!) Some of those have jacuzzis inside.

Alternatively, there is an RV park in the area.

The RV park has changing rooms and showers in a separate bathhouse.

There are also multiple spots to stay near the springs.

Affordable lodging and RV spots near Lost Trail Hot Springs

Location: 88 miles southwest of Missoula • Southwestern Montana • USA
Open: Year-round
Development: Outdoor pool, soaking tub
Clothing: Mandatory
Amenities & Services: Cabins, lodges, RV park campground, restaurant, convenience store

Hiking distance: Short
Road access: Any vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes

Elevation: 5,200 ft (1,585 m)