Lolo Hot Springs Resort 2026: A Year-Round Retreat in MT

Lolo Hot Springs Resort, nestled in the heart of Lolo National Forest, offers an unforgettable soak in its natural geothermal pools surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. This beloved Montana retreat is steeped in history, attracting visitors since the days of Native American tribes and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

With a solid rating of 4.0 out of 5, Lolo Hot Springs is a perfect year-round destination, offering soothing mineral water pools ranging from 74°F to 106°F. Whether you’re visiting for a rejuvenating soak, a stay in cozy cabins, or exploring nearby attractions, the resort is an ideal getaway. 

Explore more hot springs in Montana on SoakDestinations and plan your next escape. I, Anna Lehmann, truly felt revitalized by the serene and therapeutic experience at Lolo, and I’m thrilled to share my adventure with you!

What Is Lolo Hot Springs Resort? Quick Overview

Lolo Hot Springs Directions & How to Get There

Lolo Hot Springs Resort Photos: A Visual Glimpse

Important Information About Lolo Hot Springs Resort

What Are the Lolo Hot Springs Pools Resort Prices?

Adults pay $15, seniors (65+) and military pay $13, children aged 5–12 pay $12, and children under 5 soak free. Seniors and military guests also receive a 20% discount on cabin and RV site bookings. Pool access is included with all overnight cabin stays, making it an exceptional value for overnight visitors at this beloved Montana resort.

What Is the Lolo Hot Springs Day Pass & Soak Hours?

The resort is open seven days a week with extended hours on weekends. The lolo hot springs day pass grants access to both the indoor and outdoor pools during open hours with no advance booking required for most sessions.

*18+ only, clothing optional from 9:00 PM – Midnight on applicable nights.

What Are the Lolo Hot Springs Directions?

From Missoula, drive 10 miles south on Highway 93 to Lolo, then turn right (west) onto Highway 12 West and continue 25 miles through the scenic Lolo Creek canyon. The resort sits on both sides of the highway, seven miles from the Idaho border. The full drive from Missoula takes approximately 45 minutes along the historic Lewis and Clark Trail.

What Is the Lolo Hot Springs Phone Number?

The resort’s direct contact number is (406) 273-2290. You can also reach the team by email at info@lolohotsprings.com or through the contact form on the official website at lolohotsprings.com. Always call ahead before visiting, especially on weekdays, to confirm pool availability and any seasonal changes to operating hours.

Is There a Clothing-Optional Policy?

Yes. From 9:00 PM to midnight on Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the pools are adults-only (18+) and clothing-optional. All daytime hours are open to families and guests of all ages, with swimwear required during family-friendly sessions. Plan your visit around daytime hours if traveling with children to ensure full access to both pools.

Lolo Hot Springs Resort Reviews: My Experience

Lolo Hot Springs Resort earns a solid 4.0 out of 5 stars, with visitors appreciating its serene location in the Lolo National Forest. The mineral-rich indoor and outdoor pools, with temperatures ranging from 74°F to 106°F, provide a peaceful retreat. 

Guests enjoy the historic charm, year-round access, and nearby attractions. Some note the remote setting and seasonal changes in hours, but overall, it’s highly recommended for those seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure in Montana’s beautiful wilderness.

Lolo Hot Springs Weather & Temperature Yearly

Lolo Hot Springs Resort benefits from a four-season mountain climate at 4,160 feet elevation in the Lolo National Forest. Winters are snowy and dramatic — ideal for snowmobilers and those seeking the classic contrast of hot mineral soaking surrounded by snow. Summers are warm and pleasant with long daylight hours perfect for hiking and fishing. The canyon setting creates mild shoulder seasons that make spring and fall equally rewarding times to visit.

Lolo Hot Springs Cabins & Camping Adventure

Lolo Hot Springs Resort offers overnight stays in on-site cabins, RV sites, and tent camping spots spread across its 125-acre riverside property. Deluxe Cabins include a queen bed, pull-out queen bed, private bathroom, and a small kitchen with microwave and refrigerator. 

Dry Cabins feature a futon, microwave, and compact refrigerator with shared bathhouse access. RV sites accommodate rigs from 25 to 45 feet with hookups and a dump station, while tent sites sit beside the creek. Seniors and military enjoy a 20% discount on all overnight bookings. Monthly RV sites are available October through April.

Things to Do and Nearby Attractions Near Lolo Hot Springs Resort

Lolo Hot Springs Resort sits in the heart of one of western Montana’s most scenic and historically rich corridors, with outstanding natural and cultural destinations within easy reach of the property.

• Lolo Pass Visitor Center — Seven miles west at the Montana-Idaho border, this center interprets the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s crossing with exhibits, trail maps, and year-round access.
• Jerry Johnson Hot Springs — A short drive into Idaho, these wild clothing-optional hot springs are accessed via a scenic forest trail along the Lochsa River canyon.
• Travelers’ Rest State Park — Near Lolo town, this park preserves the only archaeologically confirmed Lewis and Clark campsite in the country, with interpretive trails and historic exhibits.
• Snowmobile Trails — The resort provides direct access to over 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails through the Lolo National Forest, with on-site rentals from mid-December through March.
• Horseback Trail Rides — On-site guided rides explore the stunning mountain terrain surrounding the resort during summer and fall, suitable for varying experience levels.
• Lolo Peak Brewing — A community craft brewery back in the town of Lolo, offering rotating seasonal taps and a welcoming taproom just 25 miles from the resort.

Lolo Hot Springs Resort Restaurant: Bear Cave Bar & Grill

One of the most beloved features of any visit to Lolo Hot Springs Resort is a meal or cold drink at the Bear Cave Bar & Restaurant, the resort’s full-service dining and entertainment hub located directly across the highway from the pools. The lolo hot springs resort restaurant serves hearty American fare in a warm, rustic atmosphere complete with a wood stove, live entertainment on select nights, and a full bar stocked with local Montana craft beers and classic cocktails.

What Is on the Lolo Hot Springs Menu?

The lolo hot springs menu leans into satisfying comfort food with generous portions at very reasonable prices. Guests frequently praise the perfectly grilled steaks, fresh vegetables, and house-prepared sides as standout dishes that far exceed typical resort bar food expectations. 

Breakfast is served on weekend mornings, making it a natural fit for campers and cabin guests starting their day before a morning soak. The kitchen handles everything from hearty eggs-and-hash-brown breakfasts to full dinner plates, burgers, and bar snacks throughout the day. TripAdvisor reviewers frequently call it one of the best-value meals in the region.

Tips for Visiting Lolo Hot Springs Resort

• Book cabins and RV sites well in advance — Especially on weekends and during peak snowmobile season from December through March, accommodations fill up very quickly.
• Call ahead before making the drive — Hours are seasonal and can change without notice; always call (406) 273-2290 to confirm pool and facility availability before arriving.
• Respect the adults-only evening hours — From 9:00 PM to midnight on eligible nights, pools are 18+ and clothing-optional; plan family visits for daytime hours only.
• Practice bear safety at all times — The resort sits in active bear country; store all food in vehicles or bear-safe containers and follow all posted campground guidelines strictly.
• No glass near pool areas — Keep all beverages in cans or sealed plastic containers around the pool decks to protect the safety and comfort of all guests.
• Embrace the digital detox — Cell service is almost nonexistent in the canyon; download offline maps and let someone know your itinerary before departing for the resort.

What to Bring When Visiting Lolo Hot Springs Resort?

Packing thoughtfully for this remote mountain destination ensures a far more comfortable visit given the limited nearby conveniences and variable mountain weather.

• Towel and swimsuit — Always bring your own towel; a swimsuit is essential for daytime family sessions and strongly recommended for all first-time visitors regardless of evening plans.
• Plenty of drinking water — Soaking in hot mineral pools is dehydrating; bring more water than you think you will need, especially for longer daytime or multi-pool sessions.
• Warm layers and a jacket — Temperatures at 4,160 feet drop sharply after sunset even in summer; moving between pools and your cabin or tent requires warm clothing at any time of year.
• Snacks or a packed meal — While the Bear Cave serves food, having your own snacks on hand for between meals or during long soaking sessions is always a smart idea.
• Sandals or flip-flops — Essential for moving comfortably between changing areas, bathhouses, and the pool deck without discomfort or hygiene concerns.
• Bug spray and cash — Warm-season creek evenings bring insects; pack repellent. Also carry cash as a backup since remote connectivity can occasionally affect card payment systems.

Where to Eat and Stay Near Lolo Hot Springs Resort?

After a rejuvenating soak at Lolo Hot Springs Resort, the surrounding towns of Lolo and Missoula offer additional dining and hotel options for travelers spending more time in the area.

• 🔵 Blue markers represent recommended restaurants near Lolo Hot Springs. 
• 🔴 Red markers represent recommended hotels near Lolo Hot Springs.

Restaurants:

• Lolo Creek Steakhouse (Lolo) — A locally beloved steakhouse along Highway 93 known for its wood-fired grill and generous Montana-sized cuts, perfect for a hearty post-soak dinner.
• The Jack Saloon (Lolo) — A rustic roadside saloon seven miles east on Highway 12 with a beautiful creekside patio, celebrated for its relaxed local atmosphere and cold drinks.
• Lolo Peak Brewing (Lolo) — A community craft brewery near the Highway 12 junction serving rotating seasonal taps and casual bites in a friendly, family-welcoming taproom environment.
• Plonk (Missoula) — A sophisticated downtown wine bar and restaurant offering small plates, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list for a more refined post-trip evening experience.
• The Trough (Missoula) — A well-regarded Missoula eatery praised by locals for its seasonal menu, fresh ingredients, and relaxed atmosphere that suits post-adventure dining perfectly.

Hotels:

• Doubletree by Hilton Missoula/Edgewater — A full-service riverside hotel in downtown Missoula offering comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to local attractions.
• GuestHouse Inn & Suites Missoula — A well-reviewed mid-range option near Missoula International Airport offering complimentary breakfast and a convenient base for exploring the Lolo area.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Lolo — A budget-friendly option located in the town of Lolo itself, just 25 miles from the resort, with straightforward amenities and easy Highway 12 access.
• Lochsa Lodge (Powell, Idaho) — A remote, rustic lodge along Highway 12 approximately 65 miles west of Lolo Hot Springs, ideal for travelers exploring the full Lewis and Clark Highway corridor.
• Holiday Inn Express Missoula — A modern, reliable hotel near the Missoula airport with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and clean comfortable rooms well suited for couples and solo travelers.

Final Thoughts

Lolo Hot Springs Resort is truly one of Montana’s most authentic and rewarding natural escapes. From the steaming mineral pools and forested creek-side campground to the Bear Cave Bar’s hearty meals and hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails stretching into surrounding wilderness, this resort delivers a complete and deeply satisfying mountain retreat. 

Whether you visit for a lolo hot springs day pass soak during a Highway 12 road trip or settle in for a multi-night cabin stay, the wild beauty and genuine character of this place will stay with you long after you leave. Plan your trip early, call ahead to confirm hours, and get ready to experience the very springs that have drawn visitors to this remarkable corner of Montana for centuries.

FAQs

Q. Are dogs allowed at Lolo Hot Springs Resort? 

The resort is generally pet-friendly in outdoor camping areas but pets are not permitted in or around pool areas. Always confirm the current pet policy directly with the resort by calling (406) 273-2290 before your visit, as policies can change seasonally and vary by accommodation type.

Q. What makes the pool water special at Lolo Hot Springs Resort? 

The geothermal spring water flows from a natural underground source and carries a rich mineral profile built up over centuries. The resort is known for offering a more natural, chemical-free soaking experience — a quality that long-time guests consistently cite as the resort’s single greatest appeal.

Q. Which nearby town is closest to Lolo Hot Springs Resort? 

The town of Lolo, Montana is the closest community, located 25 miles east along Highway 12. Missoula, approximately 37 miles from the resort, offers the widest range of restaurants, hotels, shopping, and airport access for visitors planning a longer regional stay.