Overview
A dependable soak base near Lost Trail Pass
Lost Trail Hot Springs is a developed, highway-access hot springs near Lost Trail Pass, set up for people who want hot water without giving up comfort. It’s a common stop for road trippers, hunters, skiers, and anyone moving between Montana and Idaho who wants a soak that doesn’t require a trailhead.
What you’re soaking in
Expect a large main pool and additional soaking options (often described as tubs). The main advantage is consistency: you’re not dealing with river levels, snowed-in forest roads, or finding a safe spot on a creek bank. You’re on a property with facilities, which changes the whole planning equation.
Rules that affect families
The resort posts specific child supervision requirements, and it’s worth reading them before you arrive. In practice, Lost Trail can be very family-oriented, but it runs best when children are closely supervised and soak time is managed, hot water and cold mountain air is a tricky combination for kids.
Location & Access
Where it is
Lost Trail Hot Springs is at 283 Lost Trail Hot Springs Road, Sula, Montana 59871, close to Lost Trail Pass. It’s a simple drive-up stop on the highway corridor, with no hike required.
By car
Access is straightforward in fair conditions, but this is pass-adjacent country. Winter can mean heavy snow, slick pavement, and sudden visibility drops. If you’re coming after dark, slow down for wildlife and shaded ice, and keep your vehicle fueled, services are spread out.
Seasonality and planning
Because it’s a developed property with lodging and camping, it can be busy on peak weekends and holiday periods. Check the official website for current hours, lodging availability, and any temporary closures for cleaning or maintenance.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, sandals, and warm layers for the transition between pools and your room or car. In winter, bring a hat and a dry change of clothes you can put on quickly. If you’re camping, pack extra dry socks, steam and cold air can soak gear fast.
On-site basics
Lost Trail posts pool-area rules, including child supervision language. Read them and follow them, especially around hot tubs and any deeper-water edges.
Suitability & Accessibility
Lost Trail Hot Springs is best for travelers who want a classic Montana hot springs soak with minimal logistics. It’s especially useful when natural springs are inaccessible due to snow, high water, or time constraints.
Families
Family friendly, yes, with structure. The resort posts rules about children, including supervision expectations in the pool area and additional restrictions for certain features. If you’re traveling with kids, plan shorter soak cycles, warm up in between, and keep a close eye on footing around the pool edge.
Couples and groups
Couples like Lost Trail when they want a simple soak and a quiet night near the pass. Groups do well here because it’s easy to coordinate, but plan ahead on weekends, busy times can feel crowded around the most popular soaking spots.
Accessibility
It’s a developed property, but that doesn’t automatically mean step-free pool entry. If wheelchair access is essential, call ahead and ask about ramps, entry steps, and the most manageable route from parking or lodging to the pool area.
Expectations vs reality
This is not a wild spring. You’re trading solitude for comfort, facilities, and a predictable soak. For many Montana trips, that’s exactly the right trade.
Safety & Etiquette
Cold-weather transitions
At pass elevation, the air can be sharp even when the water feels perfect. Don’t linger outside wet and barefoot. Have towels and warm layers ready before you step out, especially for kids and older adults who chill quickly.
Supervise children closely
The resort posts child rules and supervision expectations. Treat those as the baseline. Hot tubs and deeper edges are where problems happen fast, so keep kids within arm’s reach, not across the deck.
Hydration and soak length
High elevation plus hot soaking can hit harder than people expect. Use shorter rounds, cool off between soaks, and drink water. If you feel dizzy or nauseated, get out, sit down, and warm up slowly.
Slip hazards
Wet concrete and wet feet are a predictable issue. Sandals with grip help. Walk slowly, and avoid carrying too much gear at once, it makes a slip more likely.
Respect the shared space
Keep voices down at night, don’t bring glass into the pool area, and leave the pool area cleaner than you found it. Pack out trash from cabins and campsites, wind can spread it fast in this corridor.
FAQs
Is Lost Trail Hot Springs easy to access?
Yes. It’s a drive-up hot springs with no hike required. Winter access depends on highway and pass conditions, so check forecasts and road reports before you go.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes, but the resort posts child supervision rules for the pool area and additional restrictions for certain features. Plan shorter soak rounds for kids and keep them close on wet decks.
What should you bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sandals, and warm layers. In winter, plan a fast change into dry clothes, the transition from steam to cold air can feel intense.
Can you camp or stay overnight?
Lost Trail operates as a resort property with lodging and camping options. Check the official website for current availability and seasonal details.
Is this a natural hot spring?
The water is geothermal, but the experience is a developed property with pools and facilities. If you want a wild soak, you’ll need a different Montana spring.