Quick FactsOverview
About Chico Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs, Montana is a full-service historic resort in Pray, in the Paradise Valley of Park County, approximately 23 miles south of Livingston and 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. The resort sits on 700 acres at around 5,272 feet elevation with views of the Absaroka Range. Two open-air outdoor geothermal pools are fed by natural mineral springs with no sulfur odor. The large pool averages around 96 degrees Fahrenheit; the smaller pool runs around 103 degrees. Temperatures are posted daily and vary slightly by season.
The resort opened in 1900 as Chico Warm Springs Hotel, built by Bill and Percie Knowles, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The original main lodge remains in use. Amenities include multiple lodging types, a Historic Dining Room, a Poolside Grille and Saloon, a full Day Spa, a gift shop, horseback riding, fly fishing, and hiking. The resort is open year-round.
For those seeking hot springs near Livingston Montana and the Yellowstone corridor, Chico is the most celebrated full-service hot springs destination in Paradise Valley and one of the best-known hot springs resorts in Montana.
Location & Access
Getting to Chico Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs is on Chico Road in Pray, Montana. From Livingston, drive south on US Highway 89 for approximately 23 miles to the Mill Creek Road junction, then follow State Highway 540 to Chico Road. The resort is well signed from Highway 89. From Bozeman, take I-90 east to Livingston then US-89 south; the total drive from Bozeman is approximately 45 miles and takes about 45 to 50 minutes. From the Gardiner entrance of Yellowstone National Park, the drive north on US-89 takes approximately 30 minutes.
Paved all-season highway access makes Chico reliably reachable year-round. Parking is free and on site. Pool access and restrooms are handicap accessible per the official resort site. Day guests access the pools from 8am to 11pm daily; resort guests from 7am to 11pm. Always confirm current pool status at chicohotsprings.com before visiting, as pools are subject to scheduled closures for maintenance.
For those seeking accessible hot springs Montana offers near the Yellowstone corridor, Chico is the closest full-service resort with day-use pool access between Livingston and Gardiner. The nearest commercial airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport approximately 45 miles away. Livingston, 23 miles north, provides fuel, dining, and full services.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Can Visit Chico Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs suits families, couples, and solo visitors across a wide range of budgets and travel styles. Children are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult in the pool area at all times. The large pool at around 96 degrees suits swimming and family soaking. The smaller pool at around 103 degrees suits visitors wanting a warmer soak. No lifeguard is on duty. Swim diapers are required for young children.
Swimwear is required in all pool areas. The facility is not clothing optional. Outside food, beverages, coolers, and glass are not allowed on the pool deck. The Poolside Grille and Saloon serve food and drinks poolside. Locker rooms with showers, changing areas, and lockers are located poolside. Towels are included for resort guests and available to rent for day guests.
The large pool and restrooms are confirmed handicap accessible, making Chico one of the more accessible hot springs Montana offers in a resort setting. Visitors with specific mobility requirements should confirm current access details at (406) 333-4933 before visiting.
Overnight guests have pool access included. Lodging ranges from the historic main lodge to cabins, chalets, and conestoga wagons. The Historic Dining Room offers fine dining; the Saloon has live music on weekends. Day spa services are available by appointment at an additional cost. The resort hosts weddings, conferences, and events year-round.
Safety & Etiquette
Safety at Chico Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs is generally safe as a well-staffed, full-service resort with managed pool temperatures and accessible facilities. The large pool at approximately 96 degrees and the smaller pool at approximately 103 degrees are both within comfortable soaking range for most adults. Pool temperatures are posted daily at the facility. Limit time in the hotter pool if you feel overheated, lightheaded, or fatigued, and exit to rest and hydrate before returning. No lifeguard is on duty at either pool; children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Stay well hydrated throughout the visit. The Poolside Grille and water stations are available for refreshment. Alcohol is served at the Poolside Saloon, which can accelerate dehydration and overheating; drink water between alcoholic beverages and reduce pool time accordingly.
Pool decking and the path between locker rooms and the pools can be wet and slippery. Use footwear with grip when walking between facilities and the pool edge. Move at walking pace throughout the pool area. Outside food, beverages, coolers, and glass are not permitted on the pool deck for safety and hygiene reasons.
Note that Chico Hot Springs pools are subject to periodic temporary closures for maintenance and renovations. The resort announced a pool closure from approximately late March through mid-May 2026. Visitors should always confirm current pool operating status at chicohotsprings.com or by calling (406) 333-4933 before making the drive, as closures may not always be announced far in advance. The nearest emergency services are in Livingston, approximately 23 miles north. The resort is staffed around the clock during operating periods.
