Granite Hot Springs Pool
4.4(71)google
4.4(13)yelp
ForestHot SpringSecluded & UncrowdedWinter Snow
Overview
Granite Hot Springs Pool is a scenic thermal pool tucked deep within the Bridger-Teton National Forest, surrounded by towering pine trees and sheer rock cliffs. Accessible via a bumpy gravel road in the summer and by snowmobile or dogsled in the winter, this natural spring offers a relaxing, soothing soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying the pristine, untouched beauty of Wyoming's wilderness.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 2-4 hours
Best TimeSummer (May-October) is great for rustic road trips; winter (December-April) offers a magical snow-covered soak. Arrive before noon in summer to beat crowds. Winter access requires a guided snowmobile or dog sled tour through the snow.
Getting ThereTucked deep in Bridger-Teton National Forest. Drive 24 miles south of Jackson on US-191/189 to Granite Creek Road, then face an 11-mile unpaved gravel road. A high-clearance SUV is recommended in summer; winter requires tracked snow shuttles.
Travel Tips
- Access requires driving 11 miles on Granite Creek Road, a rough, unpaved gravel path with severe washboards and potholes. Low-clearance sedans must drive slowly in summer; in winter, wheels are banned, allowing only snowmobiles or dog sleds.
- Operated by the USFS, this pool features primitive wooden changing stalls and vault toilets with zero modern showers, electricity, or toiletries. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes, and pack personal towels, sandals, and warm dry layers.
- The facility operates under a strict cash-only policy; there is zero credit card processing or cell signal inside the canyon. Bring exact physical currency. Mountain shadows completely engulf the pool by 4:00 PM, causing rapid temperature drops.
Reviews
Positive
- The hot spring pool is tucked among mountains and towering pines; soaking in warm water while viewing snowy peaks is gorgeous and wild.
- The spring water is naturally free-flowing with zero harsh bleach or chemical smells, leaving your skin feeling wonderfully smooth.
- The admission fee is very budget-friendly, and basic changing rooms are provided, making it an excellent stop to loosen muscles.
- Neat wooden decks line the pool edge, and forest rangers patrol the area, maintaining safety features while preserving the wild rustic charm.
Heads up
- The final 11-mile unpaved Granite Creek Road is extremely bumpy and riddled with washboards, making driving nerve-wracking for sedans.
- In winter, the road closes entirely to regular cars; access is limited to pricey guided snowmobile or dog sled tours, causing costs to soar.
- The facilities are very rustic with no showers or flush toilets in the changing rooms, and the lack of lockers means keeping valuables in cars.
- Because the pool itself isn't massive, peak afternoon hours get as crowded as 'boiling dumplings,' making peaceful soaking space scarce.