File:M 4511416 ne 11 060 20210901.tif — public domain
Medicine Hot Springs delivers 117°F water on Bitterroot National Forest land in Ravalli County, Montana, with alkaline chemistry at pH 8.6 dominated by 80 mg/L sodium and 36 mg/L sulfate. Calcium and magnesium concentrations are extremely low at 1.9 and 0.4 mg/L, producing notably soft water. The spring sits at 4,884 feet and requires a short walk from the road.
The spring emerges along Crazy Creek in the Bitterroot Mountains at 4,884 feet, surrounded by dense conifer forest on US Forest Service land. The Bitterroot Range rises steeply to the west toward the Idaho border, with rugged drainages cutting through granite and metamorphic rock. Annual precipitation reaches 25 inches with nearly 97 inches of snow, sustaining thick forest cover. Warm Springs Campground lies just 200 meters from the spring along the wooded creek corridor.
History of Medicine Hot Springs
Specific historical documentation for Medicine Hot Springs is limited in published records. The "Medicine" designation follows a naming convention applied to thermal springs across Montana, often reflecting Indigenous recognition of healing properties in the water. The spring sits on National Forest land with open public access under Protection Status 3, meaning the area remains open but subject to extractive use provisions.
Warm Springs Campground sits 200 meters away with 14 sites, vault toilets, and fire rings, though it is first-come-first-served with no reservations. The campground accommodates trailers under 26 feet. Pack out all garbage. Nearly 97 inches of annual snow limits winter access; summer and early fall are most practical. The 117°F source water is dangerously hot for direct contact without mixing with creek water.
Is Medicine Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Medicine Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 25.0 in
Annual Snow: 96.5 in
December
Air 20°F · Water 117°F · +97° contrast
January
Air 22°F · Water 117°F · +95° contrast
February
Air 25°F · Water 117°F · +92° contrast
December offers 48°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
117.0°F
(47.2°C)
Measured Jul 23, 1976
The water at Medicine Hot Springs is alkaline (pH 8.6).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Warm Springs Campground is nestled in a wooded area along Crazy Creek. It hosts 14 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. There is no garbage service so Pack it in/Pack it out. Campground can accommodate trailers under 26 feet.
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Warm Springs Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
19 miles from Hamilton, MT
USGS Quad: MEDICINE HOT SPRINGS 7.5 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: ELK CITY
What is the water temperature at Medicine Hot Springs?
Medicine Hot Springs has a water temperature of 117°F (47°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Medicine Hot Springs located?
Medicine Hot Springs is located in Ravalli County, Montana at 4,884 feet elevation, near Hamilton. Coordinates: 45.8410°N, 114.0380°W.
How do I get to Medicine Hot Springs?
Medicine Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Is Medicine Hot Springs free to visit?
Medicine Hot Springs has Open access. It is managed by US Forest Service.
Can I camp near Medicine Hot Springs?
Yes, Warm Springs Campground is located nearby (0.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Medicine Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 8.6 (alkaline).
Is it safe to soak at Medicine Hot Springs?
At 117°F, Medicine Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Medicine Hot Springs crowded?
Medicine Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Medicine Hot Springs?
Essentials for Medicine Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.