Soaking in hot springs has been a common rejuvenating method for centuries that also included the bonus of having countless medicinal properties. It remains a popular getaway to this day and comes in an array of different setups and purposes including, but not limited to, commercialized hot spring facilities that unite all forms of spa services.
Broadwater Hot Springs is one such place.
Operating since 1889, when Montana received statehood, and nestled at the base of Rock Mountains, Broadwater Hot Springs triumphs as the one and only hot springs facility in Helena, the capital city of the state of Montana. With its multiple soaking opportunities of varying temperatures and sizes and a poolside Taproom & Grill, Broadwater Hot Springs is a favorite spot to retreat to for local families and friend groups.
| Address | 4920 W US Highway 12, Helena, MT 59601 |
| Location | 10 minutes from downtown Helena, MT |
| Open | Year-round |
| Clothing | Required |
| Temperature | 83°F-103°F |
| Road Access | Easy; Any vehicle |
| Admission | Required ($15-$20) |
All You Need To Know
Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness has almost all forms of spa services to tend to your rejuvenating requirements. With its easy access and convenient location that provides many hiking opportunities for travelers, it’s an apres-outdoor-activity destination that’ll do wonders for your tired body. Surrounded by beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains, it makes for amazing scenery especially during snowy months, adding an extra appealing layer to your relaxation.
Easy access to these springs also means that it’s great for those with mobility issues.
Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness boasts 7 pools of varying temperatures. They are fed by an artesian well located nearby that ranges between a boiling 149°F- 152°F. The well water is combined with regular cold water which as a result lowers the springs’ heat to a comfortable temperature.
The pools are categorized as ‘The Springs Pool’, ‘Cold Plunge’, ‘Soaker Pool’, and ‘Recreation Pool.’
The curved-shape Springs Pool and Soaker Pool are the main gems here. Situated next to each other, they have temperatures ranging between 79°F – 102°F. Not that hot for hot springs standards but a perfectly acceptable temperature for those who’d like to unwind without worrying about the questionably increased heart rate that tends to accompany a soak in boiling springs. But if you still find these pools hot, the Cold Plunge and Recreational Pools are right there too, allowing you to alternate between hot ‘n cold soaks.
The Springs Pool is especially beautiful at night when it’s lit up from the bottom. It is lined with benches that are perfect to comfortably sit and soak in this 4.5 feet lagoon. The technical details of The Soaker Pool are the same. However, its main attraction is a waterfall that cascades over a small two-tiered rock wall.
Before your soak, you can take advantage of their fitness center and after that, you can visit the steam room, which has all the necessary amenities.
Another perk of this establishment is the poolside bar and grill, always ready to quench your thirst with all kinds of beverages. Surprisingly enough, Broadwater allows alcoholic drinks near the pools, which isn’t the case with most commercialized or even non-commercialized hot springs.
Their restaurant is known to be one of the best in the area, with its chefs going all out to deliver the perfect meal for you. There have been numerous reports of chefs making customized meals for vegans, vegetarians, and those with specific dietary restrictions, so be prepared to receive top-notch service.
Rates
Broadwater Hot Springs offers incredible services while being extremely budget-friendly. It’s one of the many reasons people love this place so much.
Guests admission:
$15 Monday-Thursday
$20 Friday-Sunday
Swim Membership Admission ($20 annual fee):
$10 Monday-Thursday
$15 Friday-Sunday
For more detailed information, please visit the Broadwater Hot Springs official website.
Additional Information To Take Into Account
- Children under 14 should be supervised by an adult at all times.
- If kids want to have fun splashing around, they’re welcome to use the Recreational Pool, which is all about having fun.
- The facility offers day use only.
- No overnight accommodation available.
- Wearing swimsuits is a must.
- The facility doesn’t provide guests with towels so be sure to bring them along.
- The springs aren’t recommended for those who are on blood thinners or for pregnant people.
- No advanced reservations needed.
Etiquette Guidelines
Every hot spring has its own quirks. Visitors to Broadwater Hot Springs, for example, should respect other people’s boundaries, wear bathing suits at all times, not leave the children under 14 unsupervised, and not soak in steamy hot springs if they’re pregnant or on blood thinners. For more general and very important “hot springs etiquette,” we highly recommend you take a moment to check out our carefully compiled easy-to-read list of “dos and don’ts” here. And always, always respect our nature – pack out what you pack in and LEAVE NO TRACE.
How Do I Get To Broadwater Hot Springs?
From Helena, Montana take US-12 W/Euclid Ave. After that, continue on US-12 W for 3.8 miles. Then turn right onto Old Broadwater Ln until you see your destination on the right.
Accommodation
Unfortunately, there are no overnight lodgings in Broadwater Hot Springs. Not to worry! Seeing that Helena is the capital city of Montana, accommodation options are in abundance!
You can find them here.
And Airbnb options can be found here.
Camping
Campers are really in luck here! Broadwater’s location makes way for a lot of nearby campsites that are equipped with all the necessary amenities!
Campers’ top choices:
- Alhambra RV Park
- Devil’s Elbow Campground (the name itself really hooks a person, huh?)
- Riverside Campground
- Moose Creek Campground
- White Sandy Campground
- Court Sheriff Campground
- Park Lake Campground
- Hellgate Campground (this one too)
What Else Can I Explore In The Area?
The best place to go exploring is the city itself. Helena, MT has deep historical roots and has been frequented by tourists for a while now. We’re sure that the city has a lot of things to offer for every type of traveler.
- If you want to chill, have a drink, or laugh with your friends, you can check out the Last Chance Gulch, also referred to as Main Street. It’s the heart of the city so this is where all the fun is.
- To learn more about the history of Helena you can visit The Montana State Capitol Building and The Montana Historical Society Museum.
- If you want more of the vibes and aesthetic, you can check out Reeder’s Alley which will give you a closer look at the city’s authentic historical appearance.
- If you’re an adrenaline junkie and are visiting during the snowy months, the Great Divide Ski Area is the place to go.
- Art lovers can visit the Holter Museum of Art.
- If you want to explore more of nature, definitely add Gates of the Mountains, Lewis, and Clark Caverns State Park
The list of the city’s top attractions goes on and on. Most importantly, it’s diverse enough for every visitor to enjoy.
Honorable Mentions
Looking for more hot springs in the state of Montana? We got you! You can visit:
Before You Go
As you can see, there are quite a few things to consider before you start planning your visit to Broadwater Hot Springs. It’s always highly recommended to respect the rules. In this establishment, wearing a swimsuit is a requirement because it is favored by families. Frequently-visiting families also means that there are going to be numerous kids having fun in their usual fashion, albeit with adult supervision.
If you prefer to soak nude or like more solitude, then Broadwater Hot Springs isn’t the place for you. As an alternative, you can opt for one of the recommendations mentioned above.
The Final-Takeaway
Broadwater Hot Springs further proves that you don’t need to splurge in order to receive a top-tier service. This budget-friendly establishment is the best combination one could ask for. If you’re a Helena resident then you probably have already visited Broadwater Hot Springs or are planning to and don’t need to be told twice. However, if you’re a visitor exploring this part of Montana, and want to unwind and experience unmatched hospitality, then you can add Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness as a worthy destination to your trip.
Just sit back, relax, and soak your worries away!
Disclaimer
While we at Traxplorio do our very best to give you the latest information about these hot springs sites, life happens, weather happens, and property owners happen. We always recommend you go to the official hot springs’ web page and/or the relevant state authority page to check conditions, times, and prices (where relevant) before you head out. Thanks for understanding, and enjoy your soak!
Frequently Asked Questions
No advanced reservations are needed.
Admission fee ranges between $10-$20 dollars
Nope! Wearing a swimsuit is a must
Broadwater Hot Springs is located in Helena, Montana.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any overnight accommodation options available. However, there is plenty to be found in Helena, MT itself. Scroll up to learn more.
