Chico Hot Springs – Pray, Montana - Atlas Obscura

Chico Hot Springs

Pray, Montana

Just north of Yellowstone National Park tucked away in the foothills of the Absaroka Mountain Range is an historic lodge where you can soak in geothermal springs, breath fresh air and drink a beer all at the same time. 

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The natural hot springs were first written about in the diary of miner John S. Hackney, dated January 16, 1865, but that’s not to say he discovered them, the Native Americans had been using them as bathing pools long before.

In 1900, a couple, Bill and Percie Knowles, built Chico Warm Springs Hotel. The hotel consisted of lodging, a full service dining area, and a ‘plunge’ pool. Bill died in 1910 but the hotel thrived under Percie’s savvy leadership. In 1912 Percie hired acclaimed physician Dr. George A. Townsend as an on staff doctor to promote the hot springs therapeutic benefits. Word spread quickly and by 1916 there was added a 20 room hospital wing to house the guests staying for medical reasons which ranged from kidney troubles, to blood disease, to skin problems, and much more.

From 1900 to the 1950’s the ‘plunge’ was a series of man made pools built where the geothermal springs surface and was housed in a wood building. It went through many changes and reconstructions but always stayed enclosed. Until 1957 when the roof collapsed on about 70 bathers (2 people had minor injuries and the rest were unharmed), after that point the pools remained open air.

Today you can access the 2 pools, one large warm pool, and a smaller hotter pool. To access the pools go through the saloon and pay the entrance fee to the bartender (that’s if you’re not staying at the hotel). If you are over 21 you can order drinks from the outdoor saloon window and enjoy a cold beverage while soaking in the hot springs. Whether you plan on staying at the hotel or are en route to or from Yellowstone it’s worth it to take a detour for a soothing soak in this beautiful historic spot.

 

Know Before You Go

Located in the small town of Pray just north of Yellowstone it's easy to find. Entrance for non guests is $7.50 for adults and $3.50 for children.

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