The country’s largest hot springs operator, WorldSprings, opened their newest location in La Verkin, Utah on Tuesday, July 16th. Hopping on the latest wellness trend, contrast therapy, Zion Canyon Hot Springs comprises 50 geothermal pools—including cold plunges and freshwater family pools. The destination also showcases specially formulated mineral waters, sourced from both local springs and crafted to emulate the therapeutic properties of renowned international waters like the Dead Sea, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, and Japan’s Hokkaido Hot Springs.
While hydrotherapy is experiencing a resurgence in Western wellness circles, the practice of soaking in mineral baths—known as balneotherapy—has deep roots in cultures around the world. Water has long been used for cleansing, spiritual purification, and therapeutic healing. The Ancient Egyptians developed elaborate bathhouses featuring steam rooms and soaking pools, and used water in religious ceremonies to connect with the spirit world. The Ancient Romans built grand thermae, where bathing in mineral-rich waters became central to hygiene and healing rituals. Japan’s onsen culture is deeply intertwined with their spiritual beliefs and the country’s unique geothermal landscape. Onsen bathing was popular among nobility, monks and even samurai warriors, before the therapeutic practice spread to the common people. And here, in the U.S., indigenous Native American communities regarded hot springs as sacred places for physical and spiritual rejuvenation—long before founding father George Washington established a public mineral water spa in what is now called Bath County in West Virginia.
All that’s to say—humans have always had an intrinsic connection to water, it is our life source after all. Now, Zion Canyon Hot Springs offers a modern approach to balneotherapy in a stunning redrock setting. Just minutes from Zion National Park, the wellness retreat comprises two freshwater pools, natural spring pools and worldspring inspired pools (there are even pools marked 21+ for the ultimate promise of respite). Partnering with the Utah Water Conservancy District, the mineral pools utilize water from the legendary La Verkin Sulphur Springs (Pah Tempe)—a source used for centuries by the Ute tribe, and later discovered by Mormon settlers.
Zion Canyon Hot Springs also integrates WorldSprings’ signature mineral pool formulas designed to mimic some of the world’s most iconic waters. Their Dead Sea pool, for example, offers a high salt and mineral concentration that has been known to provide psoriasis and eczema relief, not to mention hydration and exfoliation. The property’s Blue Lagoon pools emulate Iceland’s iconic azure waters and utilize geothermal seawater to promote relaxation and improved skin conditions.
The addition of Zion Canyon Hot Springs to Utah’s wellness culture marks a new dawn for balneotherapy in our community. Visit their website for more information on pricing and amenities.
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