Snowmobile or Dog Sled to Granite Hot Springs
In the deep of winter, nothing feels better than a long soak in a 104 degree natural hot springs surrounded by an idyllic winter scene of fluffy snow piled high on boulders and steam rising from the hot water. In the summer, Granite Hot Springs is accessible by road, but in the winter access is limited to snowmobile, dog sled, or for the fitness enthusiast, a 10 mile one way cross country ski.
This hot springs is not like most modern built up pools, hidden in the Gros Ventre (grow vaunt) Mountains, this pool was constructed in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corp and is still rustic with only a small cabin fitted with changing rooms and no electricity or running water.
The trail to the hot springs is suitable for novice to intermediate snowmobile riders, but I would recommend going with a tour if you are not familiar with the area, or new to snowmobiling. The ride in is around 45 minutes by snowmobile, around 1.5-2 hours by dog sled, and 2+ hours by ski.
The snowmobile tours consist of a half or full day adventure, pick up and drop off in town, basic snowmobiling instruction, snowmobile gear (suit, helmet, gloves, and boots) as well as a snack with a half day, or lunch with the full day tour. Check out Togwotee Adventures for their snowmobile tour options.
Dog Sled Tours Consist of pick up and drop off in town, a team of Alaskan sled dogs and an experienced musher leading your sled on a full or half day tour with hot soup and beverages to keep you warm. Contact Jackson Hole Iditarod Sled Dog Tours for more information.
If you are planning an independent trip to Granite check the weather conditions and give the hot springs a quick call at (307) 690-7284 to make sure they are open. The cost for entrance is $6 for adults and $4 for children. Remember to bring your swim suit and a towel- and some dry clothes to change into after your swim! And try not to get your hair wet, it can make for a frosty ride home!