There are over 100 natural hot springs in west Virginia, and they cater to people of all temperature tolerances. Some of the hot springs are warm to the touch, while others are a bit more comfortable, hovering around the 100deg mark. The hot springs that are red or orange in color are the boiling level, and those in orange are warm. If you’re a beginner to hot spring bathing, the following information will help you decide which hot spring is right for you.
Sandstone Falls
If you want to experience a unique and refreshing natural hot springs experience, you should visit Sandstone Falls in West Virginia. Located north of Hinton, the Sandstone Falls are accessible via RT 26 and a boardwalk. The area features a variety of pools, some of which resemble jacuzzis. A bridge over the river offers easy access to the falls and the park. While you’re at Sandstone Falls, you can also explore the surrounding floodplain forest community.
A short hike from the trailhead takes you to the top of Sandstone Falls, the widest waterfall in the state. This spectacular waterfall spans over a 1,500-foot-wide stretch of the New River. It is an impressive spectacle, and the waterfall is a popular stop for hikers. The waterfall isn’t the most impressive waterfall on the trail, so most hikers don’t bother continuing on to the main attraction.
Nearby Shady Spring, which is the only hot spring in the state, is a popular tourist destination in Sandstone Falls, West Virginia. The spring served as a focal point for the community, especially among women. Women would go to the spring to avoid carrying water home and to meet their neighbors. During the Civil War, the area was visited by Rutherford B. Hayes, who referred to it as a big spring.
The area is a prime location for seeing wildflowers in spring. You can walk or bike along the Big Branch Trail in Summers County opposite Brooks Falls in Hinton. The trail crosses the stream and passes waterfalls and ascends through a lush forest. After the trail, you can visit an abandoned farm homestead and see a variety of species of wildflower. During the spring, you can hike the Big Branch Trail to the top, but don’t forget to wear proper hiking shoes, as the ground is slippery and dangerous.
Berkeley Springs
The mineral waters of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, are a popular destination for people who want to rejuvenate their bodies and mind. While the waters of the Berkeley Springs mineral spa have long been celebrated for their medicinal properties, they were most commonly taken internally as a remedy for digestion disorders, or bathed in for stress relief. Today, you can enjoy a relaxing soak in these waters and discover just how powerful they can be.
The town was established in 1776, and George Washington was a sixteen-year-old surveyor’s apprentice when he visited the springs. The town was originally set up as a health resort, and the spa has nine bathing chambers to accommodate visitors. Even today, visitors to the spa town can enjoy the luxurious experience of soaking in the warm spring water and bathing in private tubs.
Visiting Berkeley Springs is a unique experience. The city’s historic bathhouse has been operating since 1776, and its consistent temperature of 74.3 degrees is ideal for relaxation. The water is supplied by five principle sources and numerous lesser ones. It is heated to a comfortable 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and 2,000 gallons are produced every minute. In addition to the bathhouse, the Berkeley Springs state park has an outdoor swimming pool, which is open during the warmer months of the year. Alternatively, you can visit the park’s public tap for free spring water.
The town is home to Berkeley Springs state park, where George Washington spent two days during his visit over 200 years ago. The waters are consistently 74 degrees, making them a popular swimming destination and a great spot for outdoor activities, like picnics and music. Berkeley Springs is also known as America’s First Spa. You’ll never be bored in this historic town. It’s peaceful, scenic, and safe.
Alvon Springs
The Alvon Springs are naturally heated waters in the mountains of West Virginia. The mineral-rich waters are great for your body. They help rebalance your body’s natural minerals and hydrate your skin. A detoxifying bath helps boost your metabolism while draining toxins and excess fluid. Afterwards, you can rehydrate yourself by drinking bath sachets made with Alvon spring water.
Roman Bathhouse
The Roman Bathhouse natural hot springs in WestVirginia is a step back into history. The State of West Virginia runs the bathhouse and offers bathing experience to the public. Its 102 degree mineral water fills nine five-foot by nine-foot swimming baths. The Roman Baths are open to the public from 10am to 5pm daily. You can visit the bathhouse to experience a relaxing soak for a half-hour or an hour. The Roman Baths can be rented for half-hour sessions or full-hour soaks.
The state park in Berkeley Springs is also home to an old Roman bathhouse. Hot spring water is piped into the bathhouse, where visitors can soak in the tubs and soak in the warm water. The bathhouse was originally called Bath, a resort town in England, and George Washington flocked to the area regularly. The bathhouse also offers spa treatments and George Washington’s Bathtub. There is also a museum on the geological history of the area.
One of the earliest structures in the park is the Roman Bathhouse, which is still in operation today. Documents from the 18th century suggest a Gentlemen’s Bathhouse was built on the site sometime after 1784. The bathhouse had five bathing chambers and dressing rooms. However, the structure is not the same as it is today. In addition to the Roman Bathhouse, local legend states that the original structure was built by James Rumsey. Rumsey failed to complete his plans, but his son completed the structure.
The Berkeley Springs State Park contains the Museum of Berkeley Springs. The museum was established in 1815 and is free to visit. The museum features activities, exhibits, and publications on the history of Berkeley Springs. It’s open on certain days but is not open every day. When you visit, don’t forget to take your time and make a reservation at the Berkeley Springs State Park. It is well worth the visit!
Capon Springs
If you’re looking for a great vacation in a beautiful mountain setting, consider visiting the Capon Springs natural hot springs. This unincorporated town in West Virginia is home to the primary spring, which produces up to 100 gallons of water per minute. The water in this spring is alkaline and thought to have healing properties. Visitors can take a relaxing bath in the hot springs or relax in one of the cabins.
The bubbling waters of Capon Springs bubble up into a spring house at the base of a jagged sandstone outcrop. The water from the spring feeds the resort’s fountains, swimming pool, and spa. In addition to its curative effects, the water is served on the tables during meals. Guests are encouraged to bring bottles to take the water home with them. While the springs have long attracted a loyal following of Washingtonians, recent years have seen an increase in new guests. The water has an air of wildness and wonderment that appeals to many people.
Visitors to Berkeley Springs will find a relaxing atmosphere in this historic spa town. The town of Berkeley Springs is located 90 minutes from Washington. It’s situated on 2,000 acres of scenic Virginia landscape. The resort offers timeless comforts with access to thrilling activities. The Berkeley Springs resort is located at 7696 Sam Snead Highway in Hot Springs, VA. There are several lodging options available, from luxury resorts to simple cabins.
The pools at Capon Springs are spring-fed and include a main swimming pool and two smaller “kiddie” pools. Capon Springs is reminiscent of a resort of yesteryear, complete with a library and game room. Relax and unwind at the resort, a place where you can relax with your family. With a variety of amenities close by, you won’t have to leave West Virginia to enjoy an unforgettable hot spring vacation.
