If you’re looking for the perfect winter getaway in Montana, Fairmont Hot Springs is a must-visit destination. Nestled between Butte and Anaconda in the stunning Pintler Mountain range, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers a cozy retreat filled with rejuvenating hot springs pools, delicious dining options, and comfortable lodging. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly vacation, a romantic escape, or a solo retreat, Fairmont has something for everyone during the chilly winter months.
The highlight of Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is, of course, the pools. With naturally heated mineral water sourced from deep underground, the pools are the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the crisp Montana winter air.
Fairmont features two oversized Olympic swimming pools—one indoors and one outdoors—each maintained at around 90°F. If you’re craving a bit more warmth, the resort also offers two hot soaking pools, one inside and one outside, kept at a steamy 104°F. Imagine soaking in the outdoor hot pool as snow gently falls around you—it’s a quintessential Montana winter experience.
For the adventurous, the outdoor pool also features a thrilling 350-foot enclosed waterslide. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, zooming down the slide into the warm water is a blast. Plus, the pools are open year-round, so you can enjoy them regardless of how cold it is outside.
Pro Tip: The outdoor pools are especially magical in the evening. The steam rising from the water creates a dreamy atmosphere, and on clear nights, you can stargaze while soaking.
Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of lodging options, ensuring that every guest has a cozy place to rest after a day of adventure.
The main lodge features spacious hotel rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. Many rooms also come with balconies or patios, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The lodge is conveniently located near the pools, so you can easily slip into your swimsuit and head straight for a soak.
For larger groups or families, Fairmont also has two-bedroom suites and condo-style accommodations. These come equipped with kitchens, dining areas, and extra living space, making them ideal for extended stays.
If you’re traveling in an RV, the resort has you covered too. Fairmont’s RV park is open year-round and provides full hookups, a shower facility, and easy access to the pools and other amenities.
Visitor Tip: Lodging at Fairmont tends to book up quickly during the winter months, especially on weekends. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance to secure your spot.
A good meal always hits the spot after a long soak, and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort delivers with two fantastic dining options.
The Springwater Café is a casual, family-friendly spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features a mix of classic American dishes and Montana-inspired fare. From hearty omelets in the morning to burgers, sandwiches, and salads for lunch, there’s something for everyone. For dinner, try the Montana trout or the prime rib—you won’t be disappointed.
Waters Edge Dining Room offers a more upscale dining experience, perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion. With a cozy, rustic ambiance and views of the outdoor pool, the restaurant specializes in elevated comfort food. Popular dishes include bison short ribs, grilled salmon, and the signature huckleberry dessert. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a local craft beer for the ultimate dining experience.
Visitor Tip: Don’t skip the hot springs bread pudding at Waters Edge Dining Room—it’s a guest favorite and the perfect way to end your meal.
While the hot springs pools are the main attraction, there’s plenty to do around Fairmont Hot Springs to round out your winter getaway.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Discovery Ski Area, located just 25 minutes from the resort, is a fantastic spot for skiing and snowboarding. Known for its uncrowded slopes and variety of terrain, Discovery is a hidden gem for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Spend the day carving down powdery trails, then return to Fairmont for a relaxing soak in the pools.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
If you prefer a slower pace, the area around Fairmont offers excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Pintler Scenic Route and Georgetown Lake are popular spots for exploring snowy trails while taking in breathtaking mountain views.
Wildlife Watching
Winter is a great time for wildlife spotting in Montana. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and even bald eagles in the area around Fairmont. Pack binoculars if you’re venturing out on a snowy hike or scenic drive.
Exploring Butte and Anaconda
Both Butte and Anaconda are just a short drive from Fairmont Hot Springs and offer unique experiences worth checking out. In Butte, you can explore the city’s rich mining history with a visit to the World Museum of Mining or take a guided underground mine tour. In Anaconda, stroll through the charming downtown area, visit the historic Washoe Theater, or tee off at Old Works Golf Course (yes, even in winter, weather permitting).
If your idea of a perfect winter getaway includes pampering and relaxation, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has you covered. The resort’s spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. After spending time in the hot springs, a soothing massage can help melt away any remaining tension.
The resort also has a fitness center for those who want to stay active during their stay. And if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the game room, which features arcade games, pool tables, and more.
Fairmont Hot Springs is conveniently located along Interstate 90, making it easy to reach from several major Montana cities. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Butte, a 40-minute drive from Deer Lodge, and just under two hours from Missoula.
If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Bert Mooney Airport in Butte, which offers limited regional flights. For more flight options, consider Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, about two hours away.
Visitor Tip: Winter weather in Montana can be unpredictable, so be sure to check road conditions and pack for the cold. Snow tires or chains are highly recommended if you’re driving.
There’s something magical about Fairmont Hot Springs in the winter. The combination of warm, mineral-rich pools and the snow-covered Montana landscape creates a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re soaking under the stars, hitting the slopes at Discovery Ski Area, or indulging in a delicious meal, every moment at Fairmont feels like a special treat.
Plus, the resort’s variety of amenities and activities make it a versatile destination for all types of travelers. Families love the kid-friendly pools and game room, couples enjoy the romantic ambiance of the spa and fine dining, and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the proximity to winter sports and scenic trails.
Visiting Fairmont Hot Springs in the winter is more than just a getaway—it’s an opportunity to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature. With its soothing hot springs, cozy accommodations, and mouthwatering dining options, it’s no wonder Fairmont is a favorite destination for Montanans and visitors alike.
So pack your swimsuit, bundle up, and prepare for a winter escape you’ll never forget. Fairmont Hot Springs awaits!