Pipestone Village & Hot Springs

## Overview Pipestone Village & Hot Springs is a natural hot spring area located in southwestern Montana, near the coordinates 45.908°N, 112.244°W. Situated in the Pipestone area of Jefferson County, this site lies in the broader geological region of the Boulder Batholith — a massive granitic intrusion that underlies much of this part of Montana and is responsible for significant geothermal activity throughout the area. The name "Pipestone" has historical roots tied to the region's early mining and settlement era, and the area has long been known for its warm and hot spring seeps. The hot springs in the Pipestone vicinity are part of a network of geothermal features found along the Continental Divide corridor in Montana. These springs typically emerge where deep groundwater is heated by residual geothermal energy from the region's volcanic and plutonic geology, then rises along fractures and faults to the surface. Water temperatures at hot springs in this part of Montana can vary widely, from warm soaks to scalding outflows, depending on the specific vent. Pipestone is a small, unincorporated community located roughly between Butte and Whitehall along Interstate 90. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, sagebrush-covered valleys, and mountain views — a quintessentially Montana setting. Historically, the area saw activity during Montana's mining boom, and hot springs in the region were used by miners, ranchers, and travelers as places to rest and soak. ## Directions 1. From Butte, Montana, head east on Interstate 90 toward Whitehall. 2. Travel approximately 15–20 miles east of Butte. The Pipestone area is accessed near the Pipestone exit off I-90 (Exit 241). 3. After exiting, follow local roads toward the Pipestone community. The hot springs area is located near GPS coordinates 45.9083, -112.2437. 4. Roads in this area may be unpaved or minimally maintained. A vehicle with good clearance is recommended, especially in wet or winter conditions. *Note: Specific access details and current road conditions should be confirmed locally before visiting, as access to hot spring sites in rural Montana can change seasonally or due to private land considerations.* ## What to Expect Visitors to the Pipestone area should expect a remote, rural Montana setting. The hot springs here are not commercially developed — this is not a resort or spa destination. Instead, expect natural spring seeps in a rugged, open landscape. Water flow and temperature can vary by season, with cooler months sometimes producing more visible steam and warmer pool temperatures relative to the ambient air. The surrounding terrain is typical of the Jefferson Valley: dry grasslands, scattered trees, and wide-open views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Wildlife sightings — including deer, raptors, and occasionally pronghorn — are common in the area. Because this is a rural and relatively undeveloped site, there are unlikely to be facilities such as restrooms, changing areas, or marked trails. Visitors should come prepared for backcountry conditions. Cell service may be limited. It is important to verify land access before visiting, as some hot spring sites in this region may be on private property or have seasonal access restrictions. Always respect posted signs and landowner boundaries. The water from natural hot springs in this region has historically been used by locals, but water quality and safety cannot be guaranteed — conditions can change over time.