Chico Hot Springs Attraction Review

Chico Hot Springs is a popular destination in Montana’s Paradise Valley. The relaxing hot pools and beautiful mountain scenery attract many visitors. The resort features two mineral hot spring pools—one warm and one very hot. It’s a great spot to unwind year-round.

Guests praise the peaceful setting and the convenience of staying close to Yellowstone National Park. Many people enjoy spending hours soaking, sipping drinks, and taking in the views.

Location

Chico Hot Springs sits in Paradise Valley, Montana. It’s about 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park, near the small town of Pray.

The drive to the resort follows Highway 89. Mountains and open fields surround the area.

The setting is quiet, with views of the Absaroka Mountains. Wildlife sometimes appears nearby, and the air feels fresh.

Stores and services are a short drive away. The resort feels secluded.

Hiking and horseback riding trails are close for those who want to explore. The resort is easy to find with GPS.

Parking is onsite, and main roads to Chico are well-maintained all year.

Amenities

Chico Hot Springs has two natural mineral pools: one heated to about 103°F and one closer to body temperature. Guests can swim, soak, or relax by the pools.

The resort offers a day spa with massages and treatments. Many visitors enjoy combining a soak with a spa session.

Dining options include a main dining room with locally sourced dishes and a casual grill. The bar serves drinks and light snacks.

Lodging choices include hotel rooms, cabins, and rustic chalets. Each type offers a different comfort level.

Other amenities include free Wi-Fi in some areas, gift shops, and nearby hiking trails. Parking is free.

Food And Drink

The Chico Hot Springs Resort has a well-known restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests enjoy a wide range of dishes, with many reviews highlighting the quality and variety.

Popular menu items include:

• Local Montana beef steaks
• Fresh trout
• Homemade breads and desserts

Vegetarian choices are available. Many guests mention the extensive wine list, with options to pair with most meals.

For a casual meal, the saloon offers lighter fare and drinks in a relaxed setting. The bar staff are friendly, and cocktails are available.

Service can vary depending on how busy the restaurant is. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

Parking

Parking at Chico Hot Springs is free and close to the main entrance. The lot is paved and usually has plenty of spaces, even on weekends.

There are designated spots for guests with disabilities near the front. Oversized vehicles and RVs can park in a separate area.

Walking from the parking lot to the lobby, pools, and main buildings is easy. Luggage carts are available, and walkways are well-lit at night.

Some guests suggest arriving early during busy times to get a spot close to the entrance.

Parking Feature	Details
Cost	Free
Distance to Entrance	Short (1-3 minutes on foot)
Spaces Available	Usually sufficient
Accessible Parking	Yes
RV/Oversized Vehicle	Separate designated area

Nearby

Chico Hot Springs is in Pray, Montana, near several interesting places. Travelers often visit Yellowstone National Park, which is a short drive away.

An Alpaca and Llama Farm Tour is nearby. The tour is family-friendly and gives a close look at these animals.

Winter Wildlife Safaris are also popular. Many visitors enjoy exploring the area in a guided off-road vehicle during winter.

Activity	Distance
Yellowstone National Park Entrance	30 miles
Alpaca and Llama Farm Tour	2 miles
Local art galleries and shops	5 miles

The small-town atmosphere of Pray adds to the charm.

Pricing

Pricing at Chico Hot Springs is straightforward. Day passes for the hot springs pools typically cost around $12 per adult.

Children and seniors may get a small discount. Resort guests can access the pools as part of their room rate.

Room prices vary by season and room type, usually starting around $150 per night for standard rooms. Dining, spa services, and guided activities like horseback riding have separate fees.

Some packages bundle these extras, making it possible to save a bit. For non-overnight visitors, the pool pass offers good value for a few hours of soaking.

Final Verdict

Chico Hot Springs stands out for its classic charm and peaceful mountain setting. The natural hot spring pools are relaxing and clean.

Beautiful views surround the pools, making them the main highlight. The property offers more than just the pools.

Visitors can enjoy a historic hotel, saloon, barn, grill, and gift shop. These buildings sit close together and create the feel of a small Western village.

Here’s a breakdown of key points:

Feature	Rating
Hot Spring Pools	Excellent
On-Site Dining	Good
Room Comfort	Satisfactory
Atmosphere	Memorable
Location Convenience	Moderate

Travelers may find the journey long or tricky, especially in winter. Many guests appreciate the friendly staff and unique setting.