Quick FactsOverview
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About Lost Trail Hot Springs
Lost Trail Hot Springs, Montana is a year-round rustic resort in the Bitterroot National Forest in Ravalli County, approximately 85 miles south of Missoula on US Highway 93 and 6 miles north of the Montana-Idaho border. A single outdoor mineral pool measuring 20 by 70 feet is fed by a geothermal source at 107 degrees Fahrenheit. Pool temperature is 92 to 96 degrees in summer and 102 to 105 degrees in winter, with a dome installed in cold months to retain heat. A separate indoor hot tub seats up to 8 and maintains 103 to 105 degrees year-round. A dry sauna is also on site. No lifeguard is on duty.
The resort accommodates up to 150 guests in rustic cabins, motel-style rooms, and loft suites, all with electric heat and private bathrooms. An RV park is available. A restaurant and lounge operate during summer and ski season. The ridge visible from the pool is the 1805 descent route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, with trail access approximately 1.5 miles from the springs.
For those seeking family hot springs near Hamilton Montana at the southern end of the Bitterroot Valley, Lost Trail is the closest resort to Lost Trail Pass with year-round pool access and adjacent ski trail access.
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Location & Access
Getting to Lost Trail Hot Springs
Lost Trail Hot Springs is approximately 85 miles south of Missoula on US Highway 93 and 6 miles north of the Idaho border. The resort entrance is approximately a quarter mile off the highway on Lost Trail Hot Springs Road. From Missoula, take US-93 south for approximately 85 to 88 miles; the resort sign is at the base of Lost Trail Pass on the right when approaching from the north. Any standard vehicle can reach the property on paved highway year-round.
From Butte, take Highway 43 west to Wisdom and continue to the US-93 junction at Sula, approximately 100 miles. From Salmon, Idaho, cross Lost Trail Pass on US-93 into Montana; the resort is approximately 6 miles north of the pass on the right. Hamilton, the nearest city, is approximately 78 miles north on US-93.
For those seeking hot springs near Hamilton Montana at the southern tip of the Bitterroot Valley, Lost Trail is the furthest south resort on US-93, positioned at the gateway to the pass country. Darby and Sula offer basic services along the route.
The resort operates daily from mid-June to early September. From September through June it runs Friday through Sunday, with Monday through Thursday by appointment. Confirm the current schedule at losttrailhotsprings.com or by calling (406) 821-3574 before making the drive.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Can Visit Lost Trail Hot Springs
Lost Trail Hot Springs suits families with children, skiers visiting Lost Trail Powder Mountain, cross-country skiers on the Chief Joseph trails, and Bitterroot Valley travelers seeking rustic resort lodging with natural hot springs. The outdoor pool at 92 to 96 degrees in summer suits a wide range of visitors. The pool transitions from a 9-foot depth section to a 10-inch wading section suitable for young children. No lifeguard is on duty; parents must supervise children directly and closely at all times near the water.
Swimwear is required throughout the pool and hot tub areas. Guests may bring pool toys, soda, and snacks; pets are not permitted in the pool area. Towels and swimsuits are available for rent. Pool access is free for cabin and lodge guests; day-use visitors pay an admission fee.
For those seeking family hot springs near Hamilton Montana with adjacent ski access, Lost Trail is the closest lodging to both Lost Trail Powder Mountain and the Chief Joseph cross-country trails, making it especially popular for combining skiing and soaking in winter.
The resort is not formally wheelchair accessible. Facilities date from the mid-1900s and were not built to current accessibility standards. Contact the resort at (406) 821-3574 before visiting to discuss current pool entry conditions. The Lewis and Clark Trail approximately 1.5 miles from the resort adds historical context for interested families.
Safety & Etiquette
Safety at Lost Trail Hot Springs
Lost Trail Hot Springs is generally safe as a staffed resort with managed mineral pools open year-round. The outdoor pool maintains 92 to 96 degrees in summer and 102 to 105 degrees in winter, fed by a source at 107 degrees. Enter gradually and test temperature near the inflow before settling into a soaking position. Exit promptly if you feel overheated, lightheaded, or unwell. The hot tub at 103 to 105 degrees is warmer; limit time for children and visitors not accustomed to elevated soaking temperatures.
No lifeguard is on duty at any time. Parents and guardians are solely responsible for supervising children in and around the pool, hot tub, and sauna. Children and non-swimmers must remain in the shallow wading section and within arm's reach of a supervising adult. The dry sauna requires hydration; drink water before and after sauna sessions.
The resort is in a remote stretch of the southern Bitterroot Valley approaching Lost Trail Pass. Highway 93 can experience significant snow and ice in winter. Use winter-appropriate tires from October through April and check road conditions before departure. The nearest emergency services are in Darby, approximately 40 miles north.
The dome covering the outdoor pool in cold months creates humid conditions inside. Move in and out gradually to adjust to temperature changes. The restaurant and lounge are seasonal; confirm dining availability when booking. Bring food for times the restaurant is not serving. Contact (406) 821-3574 or visit losttrailhotsprings.com for current schedules.
