Overview
Helena’s easy, year-round soak with real amenities
Broadwater is a drive-up hot springs complex on the west side of Helena, built for the simple routine most of us actually want: change, soak, cool down, repeat. You’re soaking in a managed setting with multiple outdoor pools, then stepping back into a facility that also runs like a gym and wellness center. It’s not wilderness and it’s not pretending to be. It’s practical, and that’s the appeal.
What makes it different from small-town pool springs
The scale and the mix of uses. Broadwater leans into “come for a soak, stay for a workout or sauna” rather than “one pool and a bench.” If you’re visiting Helena for a couple nights, it’s an easy evening plan that doesn’t depend on perfect weather, trail conditions, or daylight.
What to keep in mind
Pool availability can change with maintenance, and individual pools may close temporarily. Treat the website as your source of truth the day you go, especially if you’re traveling on a tight schedule.
Location & Access
Where it is
Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness is at 4920 W US Highway 12, Helena, MT 59601. It’s a quick drive from downtown, without any forest-road drama.
By car
This is a paved approach with on-site parking and no hike. In winter, the soak is the easy part. The common trouble spots are icy lots, wet walkways, and the quick chill when you step out of the pool into wind. Bring sandals with grip and a warm layer you can throw on fast.
Planning and pool status
Broadwater posts pool and facility hours online, and it also flags closures when a pool is temporarily offline. If your trip depends on a specific pool or feature, check the day-of update before you drive across town.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, sandals, a water bottle, and something warm for after-soak. If you’re moving between pool and locker room multiple times, a robe or oversized layer makes it less of a cold-air sprint.
On-site basics
This is a managed facility with posted rules. Read them. It keeps the experience smooth for everyone, especially on busy nights.
Suitability & Accessibility
Broadwater works for travelers who want an easy soak with predictable logistics. It’s also a good “group compromise” hot spring because different people can do different things without leaving the property.
Families
Family friendly, yes, with active supervision. Broadwater posts child rules for certain pool areas, including requirements for minors to be accompanied by an adult. Plan for shorter soak rounds for kids, then warm up and reset before going back in.
Couples and solo travelers
Couples often use Broadwater as a low-effort evening plan, then head back to town for dinner. Solo travelers like it because you don’t need reservations or a hiking partner to get a good soak. If you want a calmer vibe, go earlier on weekdays rather than peak weekend evenings.
Mobility realities
It’s a developed facility, but don’t assume every pool has step-free entry. Wet surfaces and thresholds matter. If wheelchair access or step-free pool entry is essential for you, call ahead and ask about the exact route from parking to locker rooms and which pools have the easiest entry.
Expectations vs reality
This is not a scenic river soak. You’re here for reliable hot water, multiple pools, and amenities, not solitude.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat management
Multiple pools can trick you into staying in hot water longer than you should. Start conservative, take breaks, drink water, and cool down between rounds. If you feel lightheaded, get out and sit down immediately.
Slip prevention
Wet decks, steps, and locker-room floors are the most common hazard at any developed hot springs. Wear sandals with grip, walk slowly, and keep your hands free when you move around. If you’re carrying kids or gear, go even slower.
Kid supervision and shared-space norms
Follow posted rules for minors and accompaniment. In practice, the best etiquette is calm supervision, no running on wet surfaces, and keeping splash play in the most appropriate areas. If the facility is crowded, shorten your soak and rotate rather than camping in the most popular pool.
Clean-water habits
Skip glass, skip food in pool areas, and avoid lotions or heavy oils right before soaking. If showering is requested by the facility, do it. It keeps the water pleasant for everyone.
Photography and privacy
This is a public facility. Keep cameras low and avoid filming strangers. If you want photos, take them when the deck is quiet and you can keep other guests out of frame.
FAQs
Is Broadwater Hot Springs outdoors year-round?
Broadwater operates outdoor pools, and it promotes year-round soaking. Individual pools can close temporarily for maintenance, so check the website for current status before you go.
Do you need a reservation?
Day-use soaking is typically handled as a regular facility visit rather than a reservation system, but policies can shift for special events or peak periods. Confirm current rules online before you arrive.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, with supervision. Broadwater posts rules for minors in certain pool areas, including requirements to be accompanied by an adult. Plan shorter soak rounds for kids.
What should you bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sandals with grip, and water. In winter, add a warm layer you can put on quickly between pool and locker room.
What’s the best time to visit for fewer crowds?
Weekday afternoons tend to be calmer than weekend evenings. If you’re sensitive to noise and crowding, avoid holiday weekends and go earlier.