Outdoors NearbyElkhorn Hot Springs
Mountain resort in the Pioneer Mountains near Maverick Mountain ski area with two outdoor mineral pools. Currently open for pools only, four days a week. Day visitors are welcome at Elkhorn Hot Springs with a paid pass.
| Access | Day passes for the public The pools have reopened to the public Thursday through Sunday while the rest of the resort is under construction. Call before driving up. |
|---|---|
| Type | Hot springs resort, 2 pools |
| Location | Polaris, MT Managed by Private operator Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 118 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Hours | Thursday–Sunday (call for times) |
| Facilities | lodging |
| Website | elkhornhotsprings.com |
| Phone | 406.834.3551 |
Best time to soak: Elkhorn Hot Springs
Most people soak in the cooler months. From October to May average highs around Polaris stay at 27 to 57 °F, with nights down to 8 °F. Freezing nights from October to April mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 28 °F | 8 °F | 2 |
| Feb | 31 °F | 8 °F | 2 |
| Mar | 39 °F | 16 °F | 3 |
| Apr | 46 °F | 23 °F | 4 |
| May | 57 °F | 31 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 66 °F | 37 °F | 6 |
| Jul | 77 °F | 42 °F | 3 |
| Aug | 76 °F | 39 °F | 3 |
| Sep | 66 °F | 32 °F | 2 |
| Oct | 51 °F | 25 °F | 3 |
| Nov | 36 °F | 15 °F | 3 |
| Dec | 27 °F | 8 °F | 2 |
Pack for the hot springs
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Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. View on Amazon - Cold-day pick SUN CUBE hooded changing robe poncho Change in and out of a wet suit at a trailhead with no changing room, and stay warm after a winter soak. View on Amazon
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Other hot springs near Polaris
- Jackson Hot Springs Lodge Day pass
- Sharkey Hot Springs Day pass
- Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Guests only
- Goldbug Hot Springs Free
- Norris Hot Springs Day pass
- Boulder Hot Springs Day pass
- Challis Hot Springs Day pass
- Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness Day pass
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Elkhorn Hot Springs cost?
There is a fee for day use. The operator's website has current prices.
How hot is Elkhorn Hot Springs?
118 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
When is Elkhorn Hot Springs open?
Thursday–Sunday (call for times).