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11 Warm Springs to Make You Forget It’s Freezing Outside
When the air feels like an icy slap and your toes have officially gone on strike, it’s time to ditch the knitted burrito you’ve wrapped yourself in and head for a natural spring. Because these watery gems are like nature’s way of saying, “Here, warm up and chill out.”
They’re the ultimate cure for bone-deep cold – bubbling with charm, a touch of quirk, and just enough coziness to make you wonder why you’d ever step out into the cold again.
So we’ve rounded up some toasty retreats, from Florida’s lush, tropical escapes to steam-kissed hideaways out west. Think of them as a heated blanket, complete with scenic views and a side of serenity. And trust me, when these springs are calling, no amount of wool socks will compare.
Warm Mineral Springs, Florida
Sure, your spa day feels luxurious, but Warm Mineral Springs ups the ante with waters practically bursting with 51 healing minerals. You’ll feel weightless as if somebody turned Earth’s gravity dial down to spa mode.
The temps hover around 85 degrees – a warm hug for your frostbitten soul. And a soak here has been raved about for its supposed fountain-of-youth powers. So whether you quit winter or just your cold mood, this natural pool will have you floating as if you’ve got not a care in the world.
Crystal River, Kings Bay, Florida
Crystal River isn’t just warm; it’s downright tropical in spirit. This dreamy oasis is a snug 72 degrees all year, and if you happen to bump into a manatee, don’t worry – they’re judging your fins, not your swimwear.
Kings Bay is a swimmer’s heaven, with clear water that makes it feel as if it is drinking sunlight for breakfast. It’s perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or just bobbing about as the warmth soaks straight into your icebox heart. Also, isn’t a sunny float with sea cows the ultimate winter celebration?
Devil’s Den, Florida
Devil’s Den might sound ominous, but don’t fret – it won’t drag you into flaming pits of doom (at least, I don’t think so). Instead, this prehistoric underground spring serves Harry Potter crossed with tropical vacation dreams.
A toasty 72 degrees year-round and lit with natural skylight, the spring has you feeling as if you’ve stumbled into nature’s chicest pool grotto. Go scuba diving or snorkeling here, and suddenly your winter blues have evaporated as fast as marshmallows in hot cocoa. It’s a geologist’s fantasy and a swimmer’s paradise bundled together.
Blue Hole, New Mexico
They call it Blue Hole, but it might as well be the “Come Escape Winter Hole.” Tucked in the desert, this cerulean wonder stays a delightful 62 degrees year-round (admittedly cooler but still heavenly compared to icy wind chills).
A diver’s dream, this spring stretches 80 feet deep and looks as clear as your freshly polished reading glasses. Plunge in, and it’s as if you’ve found yourself in a bubble of endless spring during the deadlock of winter. Literal refreshment for the frozen soul.
Boiling River, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
The name will make you wonder if you need oven mitts to get in, but rest assured, this spring won’t cook you alive. At the Boiling River, chilly river water meets scalding hot springs to form the ultimate warm bath.
You’ll spot steamy clouds rolling as if nature itself enjoys showing off. Plus, Yellowstone’s dramatic landscapes around you make this an otherworldly spot. Winter’s icy grip might surround you, but you’ll be soaking as if you’re lounging in summer’s sweet revenge.
Hot Springs State Park, Wyoming
Think of this place as the OG of hot springing. Built around 104-degree waters, Hot Springs State Park has perfected its soothing touch. Pools and saunas beckon you while nearby bison remind you that wild wonders still roam.
And for a second, you might even forget winter exists at all. Between the natural steam and the sheer luxury of these geothermal miracles, you’ll leave feeling as cozy as if you’ve been wrapped in Wyoming itself.
Silver Glen Springs, Florida
This spring feels like entering your dream backyard pool, only better – it’s in the middle of Florida’s famous Ocala National Forest. And the 72-degree water sparkles as clearly as if fish are modeling their best swimsuits just for you.
Silver Glen is also sheltered by lush greenery, making it an ultimate peaceful escape. Forget snow boots and polar temps; here, you’ll experience the kind of tranquility where winter has completely forgotten your name.
Meadow Hot Springs, Utah
Tucked away in southern Utah, Meadow Hot Springs is a perfect cup of coffee – warm, soothing, and just what you didn’t know you needed. These crystal-clear pools, naturally heated to blissful perfection, sit surrounded by open fields that feel like a cozy blanket fort.
There’s a short trek to get there, but it’s definitely worth it. Grab a towel, maybe a snack, and your sense of wonder because this spot is all about soaking up warm vibes.
Gold Strike Hot Springs, Nevada
Gold Strike Hot Springs isn’t just a name – it’s a full-on declaration when you discover this tucked-away beauty in Nevada’s rugged backyard. The hike? Oh, it’s a workout, no question. Picture ladders, boulders, and a cardio session that has you mentally drafting a resignation letter to your legs.
But the reward? Absolute magic. The water’s just the right level of cozy, like your favorite fuzzy slippers but, you know, wet. And as you soak, there’s that quiet satisfaction of knowing you’ve officially outsmarted winter for another day.
Salt Springs, Florida
Situated in the Ocala National Forest, Salt Springs offers everything from clear, warm waters to enough scenic beauty to melt even the grumpiest faces buried in scarves.
The 74-degree water means you’ll feel as if you’ve traded the snow for the seashore without the sand. Perfect for a chill paddle or swim, these springs are winter’s ultimate “I quit” button wrapped in liquid serenity.
Ponce de Leon Springs, Florida
Named after that guy chasing eternal youth, Ponce de Leon Springs might just make you feel as if you’ve found it. The water here, a crisp 68 degrees, is surrounded by lush green canopies that shield you from winter’s sneer.
It’s a part history lesson, part swimming adventure, and an all-escape-worthy charm. Bring your A-game – or at least a towel – and soak up natural beauty as if time just handed you a pass to forget it’s wintertime.
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