Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ters or the Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce!) is one of the most compel-
ling examples of prehistoric rock art in the state. From fishing and rafting on the Bighorn
to horseback riding in the Owl Creek Mountains, there are a variety of ways to enjoy the
natural beauty surrounding town. This is small-town Wyoming in its truest and best form.
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Hot Springs State Park
Hot Springs State Park
(307/864-2176,
http://wyoparks.state.wy.us
)
is a natural phe-
nomenon featuring terrain with brilliant hues, unique rock formations, and, of course, hot
springs. The mineral deposits and various life forms paint the park different shades of red,
orange, green, brown, and yellow. In summer the park explodes with vibrant flower gar-
dens. Because the two national parks in the state's northwest corner draw the large crowds,
if you make it to this park, you're guaranteed a more leisurely, chaos-free visit.
Originally part of the Wind River Reservation, the hot springs were believed by the
Shoshone to be a gift from the Great Spirit. The U.S. government bought Big Springs and
the surrounding territory from the Arapaho and Shoshone in 1896. Chief Washakie, who
signed the agreement, had one stipulation: The waters should be freely available to all so
that anyone could receive the great health and healing benefits. As a result, Wyoming's first
state park was created along with the State Bath House, which is free and open to the public
to this day. Although one might argue that the 20 minutes that come free with entry to the
pool is not exactly what Chief Washakie had in mind, it's still a great place that reflects his
deep respect for these medicinal waters.
Big Springs,
considered the largest hot spring in the world, is the main attraction in the
park. The water's temperature is 135°F, and more than 8,000 gallons per day trickle and
gush freely over large mineral-painted terraces into the Bighorn River. Boardwalks allow
visitors to walk along the terraces, springs, and cooling pools; they lead to a long suspen-
sion bridge that crosses the Bighorn and provides great views of this remarkable area.
The
State Bath House
(538 N. Park St., 307/864-3765, 8am-5:30pm Mon.-Sat.,
noon-5:30pm Sun.) has the only free thermal pools in the park. There is an indoor and out-
door soaking pool, although the outdoor pool is closed in the winter, along with smaller
private tubs in the locker rooms. The water from the hot springs is piped to these mineral
pools and is kept at 104°F. Open year-round, the pools are small but clean and well main-
tained. Lockers, towels, and even swimsuits (if you dare) are available for a nominal charge.
If you are looking for more elaborate swimming facilities (including slides, steam rooms,
and hot tubs), there are several commercial facilities inside the park, including
Hellie's
