This Healing Hot Spring In Arizona Is So Hidden You’ll Probably Have It All To Yourself

Ringbolt Hot Springs offers a secluded and scenic hot springs experience accessible via a moderate hike in Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

No matter what time of year it is, hot springs are always in season. That's because of how chilly desert nights can be — winter or summer! These natural hot tubs tent to attract quite the crowd, but only if people know they exist. Ringbolt Hot Springs is hiding deep in the craggy rock landscape of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and it's so hidden you'll probably have the entire place to yourself.

A 5.9-mile loop, this little-known trail near the Colorado River is best used from October through April. With an elevation gain of just over 1,000 feet, it's a moderate hike whose destination is definitely worth the journey to get there.

Unique rock formations like this ancient sandy cave are hidden around pretty much every corner. Just one look makes their rich history apparent, with different colored layers signifying eons of intentional work by Mother Nature.

Some level of agility is strongly recommended, primarily due to the potential for falling rocks as well as several steep climbs like this one. Face your fears and descend ever-deeper into the craggy, barren landscape, paying close attention to just how few people you encounter on the way down.

Upon coming to the river, you'll take a left to access the spring — but don't worry about having to navigate all on your own! Bright turquoise arrows spaced intermittently along the trail clearly mark which way to go. They run parallel to the water and lead straight to the secret oasis.

Better views of the Rio Grande simply don't exist. Enjoy a cool, refreshing swim in the river before warming up in the hot springs.

Take a dip in the natural hot tub and marvel at the awe-inspiring scenery that surrounds you. Tiny waterfalls cascade down the rocky slopes before gently spilling into the alcove below.

Although the trail is rarely ever crowded, even fewer people frequent it in the early mornings and at night. Nothing quite compares to a dawn or moonlight soak without a single soul around.

Don't you just wanna jump right in? Warm water on a chilly desert evening invigorates your spirit on the deepest level possible.

Visit the hike's AllTrails page to learn more.

Have you ever taken a dip in Ringbolt Hot Springs? If so, we'd love to hear all about it.

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