When I first learned about Norris Hot Springs, I was immediately captivated by its nickname, "Water of the Gods." Just the name itself conjured up images of a hidden and enchanting place nestled within the beautiful Montana landscape, beckoning me to come and bask in its natural warmth. As I made my way towards Norris, surrounded by the vast expanse of the Montana sky and rugged terrain, a sense of anticipation began to build within me. The thought of immersing myself in those renowned hot waters, amidst such tranquil natural surroundings, filled me with excitement to uncover the enchantment of Norris Hot Springs, one of the best hot springs in Montana.

Getting to Norris Hot Springs

Going to Norris Hot Springs in Montana was really exciting. It's not too far from Bozeman, and the drive there was beautiful, with lots of mountains and open land to see. The hot springs are a bit off the main road, but following the signs made it easy to find. It felt special driving to a quiet spot that felt hidden away. Seeing steam rise up as I got close made me look forward to jumping into the warm water. The whole trip to one of my favorite Montana hot springs felt like an adventure, leading to a relaxing spot.

Address: 42 MT-84, Norris, MT 59745

Hours:

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: Closed

Thursday: 10 AM–10 PM

Friday: 10 AM–10 PM

Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM

Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM

The pools

The pool over at Norris Hot Springs truly stands out with its simple yet captivating charm. Stepping into that spacious wooden pool, I immediately felt embraced by the soothing warmth of the mineral-rich water, creating the perfect setting for a relaxing soak.

This open-air pool, surrounded by a rustic wooden deck, seemed like a hub for people to come together, unwind, and share stories beneath the expansive Montana sky. The water, naturally heated by the earth and constantly replenished, had a purity that made each dip feel revitalizing.

Wooden benches and chairs dotted around the pool beckoned for moments of relaxation, whether to dry off or simply bask in the sun's warmth. As night fell, the ambiance shifted, with steam rising into the cool air and mingling with the starlight, casting a truly enchanting spell.

Norris Hot Springs is famed for its geothermal pool, which is naturally heated by underground hot springs. The water in the pool is rich in minerals and maintains a comfortable temperature year-round, providing therapeutic benefits for visitors. The pool is situated in a rustic, open-air setting, surrounded by the scenic beauty of Montana's landscape.

Amenities

When I went to Norris Hot Springs, I was pleasantly surprised by the range of amenities they had to offer. One of the highlights was the on-site campground, where I set up my tent for the night. It was so convenient to be able to go from a late-night soak in the hot springs to my cozy sleeping quarters under the stars. The "Poolside Cafe" was another pleasant surprise, serving up delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients. I couldn't believe how gourmet the food was in such a laid-back setting. I even got to enjoy my meal right by the pool, which added to the rustic ambiance.

One of the things that really made Norris Hot Springs special was the live music performances they hosted on weekends. The pool area transformed into a lively gathering spot, with the melodies blending perfectly with the sounds of the water. It was a unique way to experience the local culture while relaxing in the hot springs.

The facility also provides camping options for those who wish to extend their stay. The campground offers basic amenities, including picnic tables and fire pits, making it a great spot for an overnight getaway. The proximity to the hot springs ensures that campers can easily access the pool and other facilities.

What really stood out to me about Norris Hot Springs was their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness. They used geothermal heating for the pool and served organic food at the cafe, showing their respect for the natural environment. The combination of the beautiful surroundings, the welcoming community atmosphere, and their eco-consciousness made my visit to Norris Hot Springs not only relaxing but also deeply fulfilling.

norris hot springs review — Image Courtesy of @ivynewfred

Facilities

At Norris Hot Springs, the facilities blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, emphasizing simplicity and eco-friendliness. The centerpiece is the "Water of the Gods," a large, wooden pool filled with natural hot spring water. It's rustic and inviting, making it easy to relax and soak for hours under the open sky. Surrounding the pool, wooden decks and simple seating areas offer a place to lounge and enjoy the serene setting.

The Poolside Cafe surprised me with its selection of healthy, locally-sourced meals and snacks, perfect for refueling after a soak. On weekends, the cafe area becomes even more lively with local musicians performing, creating a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.

For those looking to stay overnight, Norris Hot Springs provides a small campground with basic facilities. It's nothing fancy, but camping here allows for a full evening of stargazing and a morning soak, which is quite the luxury.

The changing facilities and restrooms are modest but clean and functional, ensuring comfort without detracting from the natural environment. The staff, friendly and helpful, contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere, ready with a smile or to share insights about the hot springs and the local area.

What truly stands out at Norris Hot Springs is the commitment to sustainability. The operation of the hot springs, the cafe's use of local ingredients, and even the practices at the campground all reflect a deep respect for the environment. This ethos resonates throughout the facility, making my time here not just enjoyable but also aligned with my values of environmental stewardship.

Staff

The team at Norris Hot Springs truly made my visit unforgettable. From the moment I stepped in, they greeted me warmly and went out of their way to ensure I had the best time possible. Every staff member I interacted with, whether at the front desk or in the cafe, was not only friendly but also well-informed about the facilities and the local area, providing valuable insights on nearby attractions and hiking trails.

What stood out the most was their genuine concern for both the guests and the environment. They shared fascinating information about the natural geothermal heating of the hot springs and the eco-friendly initiatives in place, showcasing a strong commitment to sustainability. This dedication was inspiring and deepened my appreciation for the experience.

In the cafe, the servers were attentive and eager to suggest their favorite dishes, all made from locally sourced ingredients. Their recommendations were spot-on, and the food was both delicious and nourishing after a relaxing dip in the hot springs.

In the evenings, when live music filled the atmosphere, the staff ensured that everyone was enjoying themselves, skillfully managing the crowd to maintain a laid-back and safe environment. It was evident that they took pride in fostering a welcoming space where guests could relax and connect.

Overall, the exceptional service and care provided by the staff at Norris Hot Springs made me feel like I was among friends. Their warm hospitality, coupled with their commitment to preserving the hot springs as an eco-friendly sanctuary, transformed my visit into a cherished experience that I eagerly anticipate repeating.

What to bring

When preparing for my visit to Norris Hot Springs, I ensured I had all the necessary items to make the experience even more enjoyable.

Swimwear: Of course, swimwear was at the top of the list to fully take advantage of the hot springs pool, with a variety of options for multiple dips or future visits.
Towels: Along with swimwear, towels were essential not only for drying off but also for lounging on the poolside benches or grassy areas.
Sunscreen: Sun protection was a must, considering the strong Montana sun, so I packed high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield myself from harmful UV rays.
Water bottle: Staying hydrated was a priority, so I brought a water bottle to refill as needed and keep refreshed throughout the day.
Flip-Flops: For convenience, flip-flops were included for easy transitions between different areas, and a change of clothes ensured comfort after soaking in the hot springs.
Books: To fully relax and unwind, I packed a book and journal to enjoy some quiet time in the serene surroundings of Norris Hot Springs.
Cash/cards: Lastly, having cash and a credit card on hand was important for entrance fees, snacks, meals at the cafe, or any unexpected expenses during my visit.

Things to do near Norris Hot Springs

Visiting Norris Hot Springs in Montana offers more than just the chance to soak in the therapeutic waters; the area around the springs is rich with activities and attractions that make for a well-rounded adventure. Here’s a personal account of things I found worth doing near Norris Hot Springs:

Hiking at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park: Just a short drive from Norris, this state park offers incredible cave tours and beautiful hiking trails. The caverns are a marvel of stalactites and stalagmites, and the guided tours provide fascinating insights into the area's natural history.
Fishing on the Madison River: Known for its excellent fly fishing, the Madison River was an ideal spot for me to try my hand at catching some trout. The serene beauty of the river and the challenge of fly fishing made for a perfect day outdoors.
Exploring Virginia City: This historic town, a little further from Norris, is like stepping back in time to the days of the Montana gold rush. Walking through the well-preserved streets, visiting the old-time shops, and enjoying live theater performances gave me a glimpse into 19th-century life.
Visiting Ennis: The small town of Ennis, close to Norris, offered a charming main street with shops, galleries, and restaurants. The Ennis National Fish Hatchery was an interesting stop, where I learned about fish breeding and conservation efforts.
Driving the Ennis Scenic Loop: This scenic drive around the Madison Valley offered breathtaking views of the Madison Range, Ennis Lake, and the verdant valley floor. Pulling over at lookouts to take in the vistas and snap some photos was a highlight.
Soaking in the Bozeman Hot Springs: Although Norris was my primary hot springs destination, visiting Bozeman Hot Springs provided a different soaking experience with multiple pools and temperatures to choose from, not too far from Norris.
Exploring Montana Grizzly Encounter: A sanctuary for rescued grizzlies located between Norris and Bozeman, this was an educational and inspiring visit. Learning about grizzly bears and seeing them up close was an unforgettable experience.
Stargazing: The clear Montana skies near Norris offered some of the best stargazing opportunities. On a clear night, finding a quiet spot away from light pollution allowed me to gaze at the stars and even catch glimpses of the Milky Way.
Biking: The area's scenic roads and trails made for excellent biking adventures. Renting a bike and exploring the countryside offered a unique perspective of the stunning Montana landscape.
Visiting Local Breweries: Montana's craft beer scene is vibrant, and visiting local breweries near Norris provided a taste of the region's artisanal brews. Sampling different beers and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere was a great way to end a day of adventures.

Best restaurants near Norris Hot Springs

1. The Long Branch Saloon

For an authentic taste of Montana's Wild West heritage, step into the Long Branch Saloon. This historic establishment serves up hearty portions of juicy burgers, classic steaks, and all your favorite bar bites alongside an extensive selection of local brews.

2. Norris Hot Springs

The 50-Mile Grille within Norris Hot Springs is an unexpected gem. Combining fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with elevated culinary techniques, the restaurant offers a delightful menu that perfectly complements a day of soaking in the natural hot springs. Don't miss their house-smoked specialties!

3. Sportsman's Lodge Restaurant and Casino

A local favorite with a lively atmosphere, the Sportsman's Lodge Restaurant & Casino delivers classic American fare with a Montana twist. Enjoy generous portions of prime rib, satisfying sandwiches, and their signature cocktails.

4. Kalena's Sandwiches, Tea & Coffee

Sometimes, the best meals come in simple forms. Kalena's is a delightful stop for fresh and flavorful sandwiches, made-to-order salads, and a delightful selection of teas and coffees. Perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic-ready basket.

5. Alley Bistro

If you're looking for a more sophisticated dining experience, Alley Bistro has you covered. Their seasonal menu features beautifully prepared dishes using high-quality ingredients, with a delightful wine list to match.

6. McAllister Inn Smokehouse Bar & Lodge

Smoked meats and barbecue lovers, rejoice! McAllister Inn Smokehouse Bar & Lodge is a must-try. Their pitmasters work magic with brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and all the delicious sides. Cozy up in the rustic atmosphere and savor the flavors.

Norris Hot Springs - Updated 2024 Guide