Historic geothermal resort on the Clark Fork River featuring silica-rich mineral pools, riverside cabins, and the legendary Harwood House Restaurant.
Quinn's Hot Springs Resort has anchored a quiet bend of the Clark Fork River since 1885, when Irish immigrant and miner Martin Quinn first staked a homestead claim on the geothermal waters. Quinn had observed local Indigenous people gathering to bathe in the steamy springs, prompting him to build a residence, simple bathhouses, and guest quarters. In the early days, access was limited to horseback, foot, or boat, but the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1910 brought a dedicated train stop on the opposite bank. Guests would cross the rushing river on a swinging wooden rope bridge, a dramatic entrance that defined the resort's early era. After World War II, Quinn's grandsons, Jack and Dick Harwood, used GI Bill financing to construct the Harwood House, a grand lodge that established the property as a premier Montana destination. Though the resort saw a period of decline in the late 20th century, a major revitalization initiated by late owner Andre J. Melief in 1997 set the stage for its modern renaissance.
At the heart of the resort are seven natural, chemical-free pools, which underwent a complete redesign in early 2021. Designed by Great Northwest Pools, the modern soaking area features curved, organic shapes framed by natural rock sourced from the surrounding hillsides. The geothermal waters are highly valued for their mineral composition, particularly a high concentration of silica, which is accompanied by sodium and sulfate. The soaking lineup includes four natural flow-through mineral pools ranging from 100 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, two salt-treated pools maintained in the upper 90s, and a bracing 55-degree cold plunge. Steam rises off the pools against the canyon walls, offering a stark contrast to the crisp mountain air and the steady murmur of the adjacent river.
The resort's accommodations and dining maintain a rustic but refined standard across 83 rental options. Guests can stay in one of the two main lodges, including the River Lodge completed in 2017, or choose from over 25 individual canyon and river-side cabins, such as the river-facing Annie Oakley cabin. Dining centers on the Harwood House Restaurant, a historic venue decorated with black-and-white archival photos of the resort's early years. The restaurant is celebrated for its classic Montana fare, including slow-roasted prime rib, wild game meatloaf, and hand-cut steaks, paired with a wine list that has earned regular recognition from Wine Spectator magazine. Adjacent to the dining room, Quinn's Tavern offers a more casual pub atmosphere with a full bar and local drafts, providing a warm gathering space after a long day of soaking.
Book one of the Riverview cabins, like the Annie Oakley, for private porches facing the Clark Fork River, and make dinner reservations at the Harwood House well in advance to secure their slow-roasted prime rib.
Where to Stay — Curated accommodations hand-picked by Basecamp West. Glamping, boutique hotels, historic lodges, and unique stays across the American West.