Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Montana

What it is

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is a developed hot springs property near Anaconda and Butte with a large, facility-style pool complex. This is the kind of place you pick for predictable comfort: locker-room convenience, consistent water, and a soak that’s not dependent on river levels or dirt-road conditions.

The resort states it has four hot springs pools and runs them year round. It’s a practical option when you want warm water in winter, or you’re traveling with a mixed group that prefers amenities over wilderness.

Access rules matter here

Fairmont’s pool access is not simple day-use. The resort states that both indoor and outdoor pools are open only to registered overnight guests, condominium association guests, and pool or golf members, with separate rules for RV park and chalet guests. If you’re not staying on property, confirm eligibility before you assume you can soak.

What to expect

Expect a classic resort swim environment. You’ll see families, casual swimmers, and people treating the pools as their main activity for the day. If you want quiet and solitude, this probably isn’t your best Montana soak.

Where it is

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is near the Fairmont area between Butte and Anaconda, with easy access from I-90. It’s a straightforward stop for road-trippers crossing southern Montana.

Getting there

Most visitors approach from I-90 and follow local roads to the resort. Roads are typically paved and well-traveled. In winter, conditions can still change quickly, so check forecasts and road reports if you’re driving at night or during a storm cycle. Give yourself extra time if you’re coming from higher passes.

Arrival notes

This is a resort setup with front-desk check-in. If you’re staying overnight, confirm pool access details at check-in and ask about wristbands or credentials used for entry. If you’re in the RV park or a chalet, Fairmont states pool access may involve a daily fee and proper credentials, so clarify that before you plan your day around soaking.

Bring the basics: sandals with grip, a towel, and a warm layer for the walk between buildings and outdoor pools in cold weather. Pool hours and any temporary closures are posted by the resort, so verify the current schedule on the official site.

Who it suits best

Fairmont is best for travelers who want a controlled, amenity-first soak, especially families, groups with varied comfort levels, and anyone who wants a warm-water option that doesn’t require hiking or rough roads. It also works well as a base if you’re mixing soaking with Butte or Anaconda plans.

Families

This is one of the more kid-friendly hot springs experiences in Montana because it functions like a swim facility. That said, hot water still demands supervision. Keep kids from lingering too long in hotter sections, and plan breaks to cool down and rehydrate.

Mobility and accessibility

The resort publishes an accessibility statement describing accessible public spaces (including elevators, ramps, and public washrooms) and also offers ADA accessible guest rooms. Pool-entry details can vary by pool, so if you need a lift, a ramped entry, or a specific changing setup, contact the property directly before booking. Expect short walks on wet surfaces, and plan footwear accordingly.

Expectations vs reality

The biggest mismatch here is assuming you can drop in for a quick soak while passing through. Fairmont’s stated access rules are tighter than many Montana hot springs, so treat this as an overnight-or-member style soak, not a casual roadside stop.

Hot water, simple limits

Even in a controlled resort setting, hot water can sneak up on you. Keep sessions short, especially if you’re not used to soaking, and cool off between dips. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, or unusually sleepy, get out and rest somewhere warm.

Slip risk and pool edges

Pool decks are wet all day. Walk slowly, keep sandals on until you’re at the edge, and help kids in and out rather than letting them hop. In winter, moving from outdoor pools into cold air can be a shock, dry off quickly and use a warm layer.

Respect shared space

Fairmont is a swim-forward environment, but people still come to relax. Keep roughhousing contained, avoid loud speaker music, and don’t claim prime edge spots for long stretches if the deck is crowded.

Hygiene and comfort

Rinse before soaking if you’re wearing sunscreen or lotion, and rinse after if your skin feels dry. Keep glass off the deck and follow any posted rules on food and beverages. If you’re pregnant or have a medical condition affected by heat, take a conservative approach and seek advice from a clinician you trust before using hot water.

Can I visit for day use?

Usually no. The resort states the pools are open only to registered overnight guests, condominium association guests, and pool or golf members, with separate rules for RV park and chalet guests. Check the official pool-access policy before you plan a visit.

Are the pools open year round?

The resort states registered hotel guests have access to the hot springs pools year round. Hours can shift, so confirm current operating times on the resort site.

What should I pack?

Bring sandals with grip, a towel, and a warm layer for moving between buildings and outdoor pools. A dry bag for keys and phones is helpful if you’re bouncing between pools.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

The resort describes accessible public spaces (including elevators, ramps, and public washrooms) and offers ADA accessible rooms. For the most accurate pool-entry details, contact the resort directly about lifts, ramped entries, and changing access.

Is this a quiet soak?

Not always. This is a family-friendly resort pool environment, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want a calmer soak, aim for off-peak times and avoid school-break periods.