Zion Canyon Hot Springs – What it is like to visit this new Desert Oasis
- Arika Bauer
- Aug 5
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 10
What could be better after a day of exploring Zion National Park than a relaxing soak in luxurious natural hot springs? Tucked into the red rock cliffs just 30 minutes from the park, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is one of Southern Utah’s newest and most peaceful places to unwind.
With geothermal soaking pools, cold plunges, sweeping red rock views, and a calming, spa-like atmosphere, this hot springs resort has quickly become a must-visit destination for both travelers and locals.
I’ve now been three times—once with my kids and their friends, and once with a group of girlfriends and once on my own—and all three experiences were completely different but equally amazing.
What to Expect at Zion Canyon Hot Springs
Zion Canyon Hot Springs is a beautifully designed wellness resort located in La Verkin, Utah, just a short drive from Springdale and Zion. The property is divided into two main areas:
An all-ages section
A 21+ adults-only section
Whether you're visiting with kids or looking for a relaxing adult getaway, you’ll find your perfect soak here.
Family-Friendly Soaking – All-Ages Section
This side of the resort is great for families and anyone looking for a fun, low-key day of soaking. It includes:
14 mineral soaking pools with varying temperatures
A large freshwater pool that’s perfect on hot days
A whirlpool, cold plunge, and barrel sauna
Access to food and drinks from the snack shack
It’s clean, calming, and thoughtfully laid out. My kids loved bouncing from pool to pool, and I appreciated the peaceful vibe and beautiful setting.
Adults-Only (21+) Section
If you're planning a girls’ trip, couples’ retreat, or solo self-care session, the adults-only section is next-level. It includes:
18 mineral pools of varying temperatures
16 WorldSprings-inspired pools based on hot springs from around the world (like the Blue Lagoon in Iceland and the Dead Sea in Israel)
Dedicated food and drink service—you can sip cocktails while soaking
A quiet, elevated atmosphere that feels like a luxe spa escape
Pro tip: Don’t forget your ID! Bring it with you to check in and receive a 21+ wristband so you don’t have to carry your ID around the property.
Pricing & Pass Options 2025
Time | Adults/Teens (13+) | Youth (3–12) | Notes | |
Select Access (Family Side) | Off-Peak (Mon–Fri before 2 PM) | $39 | $25 | Includes 3-hour access |
Peak/Holiday (After 2 PM & Weekends) | $59 | $35 | 3-hour block | |
Premier Access (21+ Adults-Only + Family Side) | Off-Peak | $49 | N/A | Must be 21+ with ID |
Peak/Holiday | $69 | N/A | 3-hour block | |
All-Day Upgrade | Any time | +$30 | +$30 | Adds all-day access to any pass |
Extras | Towel Rental | Included (1) | Additional towels: $5 | |
Robe Rental | $10 | |||
Local Discount | With proof of Washington County residency | 20% off | 20% off | Valid on day passes & memberships |
Hours of Operation
Open Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: Open until Midnight
Food & Drink Options
There’s a convenient snack shack on-site offering drinks, cocktails, and a menu of hot food and snacks. The food was genuinely tasty on both of my visits, and it’s so nice to have everything you need right on-site—no need to leave the property.
My Personal Experience Visiting the Zion Canyon Hot Springs
Soaking with Kids
Our first visit was in late July on a hot summer day. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was blown away by the peaceful, well-designed layout. From the music and landscaping to the locker system (your wristband is your key!), everything felt elevated.
My kids were in heaven. The big freshwater pool was the perfect temperature, and they loved hopping from pool to pool, even trying the cold plunge for fun. We stayed the full three hours (passes are sold in time blocks), and finished off the day with snacks and drinks from the snack shack. It was easy, fun, and one of our favorite new family activities in Southern Utah.
Girls’ Night in the 21+ Area at Zion Canyon Hot Springs
My second visit was a Friday evening with girlfriends. We headed straight for the adults-only section where we could order drinks and enjoy them while soaking. It was a bit busier (as you’d expect on a weekend), but it still felt peaceful and relaxing.
Pro tip: Bring your ID so you can get the 21+ wristband and won’t need to carry your ID around.
We soaked, laughed, tested all the pools, and watched the sunset light up the red cliffs. The food was great, the drinks were decent (Utah style.....not very strong!), and it made for the perfect girls’ night out.
A Look Back: The History of Zion’s Hot Springs
I have such fond memories of Pah Tempe Hot Springs, also known as La Verkin Sulphur Springs or Dixie Hot Springs. Growing up in Southern Utah, locals affectionately called them the “hot pots.” I often joke that the smell of rotten eggs is the smell of my childhood, haha!
I remember swimming in the big pool, soaking in the smaller ones, and playing in the river below the canyon cliffs. It was such a special place. For my 40th birthday, I even hiked up the river to see them again—magical as ever.
While the new resort is definitely more commercial, I’m genuinely thrilled to have access to these healing waters again. The resort is beautifully done and brings new life to an old favorite.
History Tidbit
Fun fact: my great-great-great-grandfather Thomas Judd was the first official owner of the hot springs! The water has long been considered sacred and healing—used by the Ute people for centuries, then by Mormon settlers, and later by resorts starting in the early 1900s.
***Photos from the Washington County Historical Society
The springs changed hands many times until 2013, when the Washington County Water Conservancy District took over. Since then, the hot springs have remained mostly closed—until now. Here’s a little more about the history of Pah Tempe Hot Springs from the Washington County Historical Society.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking to soak sore muscles after hiking in Zion, need a relaxing family outing, or want a fun night with friends, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is a must-add to your Southern Utah itinerary. It’s luxurious, peaceful, and such a refreshing way to experience this red rock paradise.
Can’t make it to Zion Canyon Hot Springs just yet? Head north and check out Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe, Utah. It’s about a two-hour drive from Zion and offers a totally different experience—rustic, quirky, and full of character.
Happy Adventuring,
Arika
