What to Bring to Utah Hot Springs

Essentials

• Swimsuit

  Required at all Utah hot springs — nudity is illegal statewide. A quick-dry swimsuit works best so you're not sitting in a wet suit on the drive home.

• Towel (quick-dry)

  Microfiber towels dry fast and pack small — ideal for hike-in springs where space and weight matter.

• Water Bottle

  Hot water dehydrates you faster than you'd expect. Bring at least 1 liter per person and drink regularly.

• Snacks

  Most natural springs have no facilities nearby. Pack energy bars, trail mix, or fruit to refuel after soaking.

• Trash Bag

  Pack out everything you bring in. A small trash bag keeps your car clean and protects the springs for the next visitor.

Footwear

• Water Shoes or Sport Sandals

  Rocky, slippery pool bottoms are the norm at natural springs. Shoes with good grip protect your feet and prevent falls on wet mineral deposits.

• Hiking Boots (for hike-in springs)

  Springs like Fifth Water require a 4+ mile hike. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support keep your feet dry at creek crossings.

• Flip-Flops

  Great for resort springs and walking between pools. Easy on and off, but not suitable for trails.

Sun & Skin

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

  Utah sun is intense, especially at elevation. Use mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin without harming the spring ecosystem.

• Hat with Brim

  A wide-brim hat shields your face and neck. Many springs have no shade, so a hat is your best defense against sunburn while soaking.

• Sunglasses

  Polarized lenses reduce glare off the water and protect your eyes at Utah's high elevation.

• Lip Balm with SPF

  Dry Utah air plus sun equals cracked lips fast. An SPF lip balm keeps them protected.

Tech & Valuables

• Waterproof Phone Pouch

  Steam and mineral water corrode electronics. A sealed pouch (IPX8 rated) lets you take photos without risking your phone.

• Dry Bag

  Stash your keys, wallet, and spare clothes in a roll-top dry bag. Keeps valuables safe from splashes and unexpected rain.

• Headlamp

  If you're soaking at dawn or dusk (or hiking back in fading light), a headlamp is essential. Many springs have no lighting.

Winter Add-Ons

• Insulated Layers

  Wear moisture-wicking base layers and an insulated jacket for the hike in. You'll strip down at the spring and need warm clothes for the walk back.

• Changing Robe

  A warm changing robe lets you transition from wet swimsuit to dry clothes without freezing. Worth the investment for winter soakers.

• Microspikes / Traction Devices

  Icy trails are the biggest winter hazard. Slip-on traction devices (like Yaktrax or Kahtoola) attach to your boots for grip on packed snow and ice.

• Warm Hat & Gloves

  You lose heat fast through your head and hands, especially with wet hair. Pack a warm beanie and insulated gloves.

• Thermos with Hot Drink

  Nothing beats a hot cocoa or tea after climbing out of the spring on a cold day. A good thermos keeps drinks warm for hours.

• Hand Warmers

  Disposable hand warmers are cheap, lightweight, and can make the drive home much more comfortable after a winter soak.

For Hike-In Springs

• Daypack (20–30L)

  Big enough for your towel, water, snacks, and extra layers. Look for one with a hip belt to distribute weight on longer hikes.

• Trekking Poles

  Helpful for creek crossings and steep sections. Collapsible poles pack down small and save your knees on the way back.

• First Aid Kit

  Backcountry springs are far from help. Carry a basic kit with bandages, blister treatment, antiseptic, and any personal medications.

• Offline Map / GPS

  Cell service is unreliable near most natural springs. Download an offline map (AllTrails, Gaia GPS) before you leave home.

Frequently Asked Questions