Mystic Hot Springs is located in Monroe, Utah, about a 2.5 hour drive south of SLC. It’s been on my Utah Bucket List for awhile, so a few friends and I made it happen this weekend as a day trip. Among all of the hot springs in Utah, this is by far the most unique and least crowded, but also the most expensive. The natural hot springs flow into 6 large bathtubs, and two smaller, shallow pools. The closer you soak to where the water flows from, the hotter the water is. 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, & Piute would set up camp, and soak for warmth and comfort. Legend says that they would paint themselves with the red dirt to keep themselves safe.
Directions
From SLC, Drive south on I-15. At Scipio, UT take exit 188 for HWY 50. Turn right on HWY 260 towards Aurora, UT then get on I-70. Turn left on W 1300 S. Then Right on HWY 118. Continue following HWY 118 by turning left. Once in Monroe, UT turn left on E 100 N to the very end of the road.
Here’s a driving map.
FAQs
Dog friendly? Not at the hot springs, Yes for the campground.
Kid friendly? Yes
Fees: $15/person for 1 day
The entrance sign sets the vibe for the hot springs, as it is homemade & bohemian.
Walking up to the office, we didn’t have a good feeling about this place. It is very run down, dirty, and shrubs overtook the empty swimming pool. We couldn’t see the tubs anywhere so we weren’t sure if we were even in the right place. However the sign was there so we went inside. We checked in, paid our fees, and the front desk person told us how to get to the tubs, which were around the corner and up some stairs. They do have a disclaimer on their website about the place not being perfect, and that they know it needs some updates.
First we had to change and put our swimsuits on. This is inside the ladies room – curtains are used for doors, only one toilet worked, and there were candles, cards, mirrors, and other knickknacks around. Three of us were in here and it was tight. Showers are located down the street by the buses.
When we arrived we were the only ones there so all of the tubs were available to soak in.
Tub #4. This was my favorite because it was the cleanest (no algae), it was by itself, and of course the views were awesome. The temperature was also perfect.
The water temperature comes out of the ground at 168F, but the bathtubs are kept between 98F-110F. There’s a good temperature for everyone, and the water temperature can be adjusted if someone prefers something different (upon request). The bathtubs are cleaned everyday, and the pool a few times a week. The water contains calcium, magnesium, and iron, which makes it best for soaking. You don’t want to drink this water.
Not only soaking in the water, but soaking up some sun! Even in Winter you’ll want to bring sunblock. At the end of the day my face and chest were fried!
Tub #5. This one is placed right up against the rock, but surprisingly this tub wasn’t very hot.
At the shallow pool, you can sit out on the rock to cool off. The rocks aren’t hot to touch at all.
Rub a dub dub, everyone in a tub! Such a fun group to travel with.
Camping is also available for tents, but for a more unique experience you can stay in these school buses which have been converted on the inside to sleep 2-6 people. Dogs are allowed in the campground off leash.
School Bus & Cabin Fees: $60/night for 1 person, each additional person is $30 which includes the soaking fee
Tent Camping: $30/night/person which includes the soaking fee
Inside one of the bigger buses. This was the nicest one we were able to peek into.
The smallest bus you can rent out for 2 people. They give you a bus depending on how many people will be sleeping in there.
If you do ever have a chance to go, I highly recommend it. As the saying goes, “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover,” don’t judge Mystic Hot Springs by it’s exterior – enjoy the hot water, nature, and relax.
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