An Afternoon at the Mystic Hot Springs

A travel dream of mine been to one day visit the Mystic Hot Springs. A true magical natural wonder, located in Monroe, Utah, about a 2.5 hour drive south of Salt Lake City and from Springdale.

The natural hot springs flow into 6 large bathtubs, and into two smaller, shallow pools. The water and rocks are extremely warm but not scolding hot. I recently learned that the Mystic Hot Springs has been around for nearly 100 years, and has changed owners a few times. Originally, the hot springs were where the Indian tribes of Ute, Shoshone, and Piute would set up camp and soak for warmth &comfort.

Mystic Hot Springs, Monroe, Utah.

As you drive up, you come to a dead-end where a house sits. There is a sign that says “Mystic Hot Springs” so you’ll know you’re in the right place. There is a campground to your left where you’ll find a row of vintage school buses, turned into sleeping pods. In the same area you’ll find the parking area, bathrooms and changing rooms.

The vibe – rustic/hippie.

• 

• 

• 

Due to COVID, you will see a big sign that says “closed”, don’t worry, if you have a reservation – you’re good. All you do is call the number listed and check-in via the phone. Five mins to your reserved time, I would start heading to the springs.

If you’re planning to visit in the colder months, like we did, I would recommend wearing your jacket over your bathing suit and keep your boots on until you’re at the tubs. Most of the grounds are covered with ice/snow and where there isn’t, the ground is still very cold. Cubbies are available if you want to keep anything behind.

Soaking passes for adults are $25 for two hours. We were very lucky that it was not busy and we shared the area with a family of three. They stayed in one area and we stayed in another. From what I heard, in the summer is the most popular time to visit, so if you want to be unbothered by people and sharing tubs, go in the winter.

• 

• 

• 

• 

Instagram vs Reality

Instagram: What you see (on IG) is what you get! Be ready to take your super cute pictures while soaking in the cutest tubs. You are definitely able to relax and move around at your leisure, while taking in the view.

Reality: First impressions were a little eerie when we saw that the springs are located behind someone’s house. As you walk by the side of the house, you’re instantly in another world. The house must sit on acres of land because there seemed to be no end.

What To Bring With You

• Towel
• Boots & sandals or water-shoes
• Coat (for the colder months)
• Sunblock & Sunglasses (the sun is pretty harsh)
• Water & Snacks
• Change of clothes ( I wore my bathing suit under my sweats going there)

•••

I highly recommend adding Mystic Hot Springs to your bucket list. This was my fist time experiencing a natural hot spring and I am so glad it was here with little to no people to bug us lol

3