Road Trip Oddities: The Hobo Pool in Saratoga, Wyoming
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I love checking out quirky roadside attractions on road trips – it helps break up an otherwise long and boring drive. On a recent very long trip from Idaho to Chicago, Mike and I decided to take an hour detour to a natural hot springs in Saratoga, Wyoming. Open year-round, 24/7, The Hobo Pool is the perfect place to relax after long hours on the road.
It may seem weird to pull over and jump into a 100+ degrees hot springs, however, you would be surprised on what a nice break it makes! It was great to get in the hot waters after stepping out into the freezing winter air; it was even snowing a bit outside which made for the perfect winter setting! We definitely enjoyed soaking our tired muscles. Our feet and legs get so stiff after sitting in the same position for so long. We definitely felt refreshed to continue on with our next 9 hour portion of our drive.
How hot is the water? What are the benefits of hot springs?
Water from a hot springs is heated by geothermal heat. The springs, which vary in temperatures from 106-119 degrees, are believed to be healing waters. Native Americans once believed the springs to have healing powers. Although the Sulfur occurring naturally in the springs has a strong odor, it is supposedly good for your skin, detoxifies your body, and helps with many other conditions. The other naturally occurring minerals help ease problems such as arthritis, sore muscles, and joint pain. Sounds nice after a long ride doesn’t it? If you have ever taken a long drive, then you know how much your legs, neck, and shoulders are hurting after a while. Relaxing in the springs can help ease muscle and joint aches and get the circulation going again.
A great free roadside detour
I have visited several hot springs out West; Hobo Pool has been one of my favorites. Also, it is much rarer to find a good hot springs that is free – many are quite pricey. This spring is managed by the town of Saratoga. This one was large enough to accommodate plenty of people and the water was hotter than others, which was ideal for the winter weather. I imagine this place gets more crowded during the summer months. Me, I prefer soaking in hot springs when the temps are under 50 degrees. We lucked out as there were few people around. I would definitely come back again if I happen to be driving out this way.
Another one of my favorite western hot springs is Pagosa Springs in southwestern Colorado. It’s much pricier, but the facilities are wonderful. I highly recommend checking it out if you are vacationing anywhere near Durango.
Additional Details
- Admission: Free (there is a donation box)
- Hours: 24/7 all year
- Address: 201 S. River St. Saratoga, WY 82331
- Amenities: Showers and restrooms. A seasonal swimming pool is located next door (open May-Sept)
More of the country’s quirkiest attractions
If you are into checking out the strange and unusual, then you will want to take a look at my guide to the most oddball attractions in the US. I continue to add to this list with each new roadtrip, so I expect it to be pretty big in the future 🙂
