Stinky Hot Springs

Stinky Hot Springs nears Corinne

(Corinne) If you're the kind of adventurer who loves weird but natural hot springs, then Stinky Hot Springs might just be your next unforgettable stop. But before you throw on your swimsuit and grab a towel, let’s talk about what you’re really getting into here.

The three concrete pools surrounded by plywood

Stinky Hot Springs (also known as Stinking Springs, Stinky Springs, or “Wow That Smell is Strong”) sits just off Highway 83 near Corinna in a flat patch of desert near the Great Salt Lake. It definitely earns its name. You know how most hot springs have a faint whiff of sulfur that gives them that “earthy” spa vibe? This one doesn't whisper sulfur. It shouts it. Right up your nostrils. I visited with my dog Timber in March of 2024 and she looked at me like I was the one who needed a bath.

Timber looking at me like I was crazy

There are three cement-walled pools, loosely surrounded by plywood barriers covered in art (graffiti?), old carpet remnants, and the occasional empty soda can. If you enjoy interior design or architecture, this place can be best described as “post-apocalyptic chic.” It’s not a resort. It’s not a wellness retreat. And you won't be offered cucumber water. However, there’s something oddly charming about its honesty. It is what it is. And for some folks, that’s exactly what they love about it.

The middle pool says its 105 degrees

Each pool has a different temperature painted on the plywood above it. One is 103 degrees, the middle one says 105 degrees, and the last one claims to be 107 degrees. I don't know how accurate these are and they all felt the same to me.

There are pipes where fresh water flows in and out of the pools

People who love hot springs with certain medical conditions will tell you it the mineral-rich hot water helps with arthritis and sore muscles. That's a big draw to this place. Others love this spot just for the fact that it is free to soak here. It's also outdoors. And weird. All in the right or wrong ways, depending on your point of view.

You can park very close to the pools

It’s also worth mentioning that people have died here. Back in 2000, some of the initial speculation blamed carbon dioxide gas released by the springs, though it was later ruled a drowning. The springs were reopened shortly after with a sign saying “Use at your own risk.” I have also seen pictures online of weird worm looking things in the water when I was researching the place, though I didn't see any when I visited. So, yeah, maybe don’t bring Grandma here on her birthday.

There are steps into the pools

Despite all this (or maybe because of it), there’s a strange beauty in the absurdity of this place. You’re soaking in hot water under the open desert sky, surrounded by the faint aroma of eggs and ancient geology. It’s raw, real, and very, very stinky.

Stinky Hot Springs is just off Highway 83 near Corinne

Would I go again? Probably. Maybe? I don't know. It's not a place Kylie would go to with me, I can guarantee you that! But I’m glad I went once. I think it's important for me to be honest about what this place is and isn't. Timber wasn’t impressed, but I like to think she appreciated the fresh air after we left. Soak smart. Stay safe. And maybe pack some nose plugs just in case.

Timber was not impressed at all

LOCATION: Google Maps link Know Before You Go:

-The smell is intense. If you're sensitive to sulfur, this is not your scene.

-The tubs are technically on private land, but the owner allows public access.

-There’s no maintenance, no lifeguards, no amenities, and definitely no lockers.

-The Utah Health Department has said in the past this place doesn’t meet bathing standards, so maybe think of it as more of a dip-and-dash? Your call.

-It's dog friendly, but my dog thought I was tricking her into a bath. Or maybe she knew something I didn't about the water.

Getting into the water for a few minutes for a quick review