6 cool hot springs: hike, bike, then soak away your troubles in these natural mineral baths - venture out

Shape, Nov, 2003 by Amy Goldhammer

For centuries, those seeking rejuvenation, and even healing, have traveled to mineral springs to "take the waters." While today's medical experts agree that the minerals in hot springs (some common ones are sulfur, calcium and magnesium) can't cure serious diseases like cancer or tuberculosis, there's no discounting the powerfully relaxing, de-stressing "aaahhh" factor, says Pamela Peeke, M.D., M.P.H., an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and the medical adviser for the International Spa Association: "Relaxing in hot springs lowers your level of the stress hormone cortisol and reduces inflammation so you feel better physically and mentally."

The following six hot-spring resorts offer steamy wonders galore plus lots of calorie-burning opportunities, healthy fare and fascinating local history and culture.

(All lodging rates are per night, double occupancy, unless otherwise noted.)

1. Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa, Desert Hot Springs, Calif.

Where it is About two hours southeast of Los Angeles

Secrets of the springs Locals say gangster Al Capone took refuge here to revel in the soothing waters and dry desert air after being bullied out of Chicago. (The waters apparently weren't healing enough, as the feds eventually caught up with him.)

Soak it up Two Bunch Palms boasts two spring-fed pools, one at 98[degrees] F, the other at 104[degrees]. Both originate from natural wells on the property. The Grotto, the resort's famous palm-lined pool, is one of the largest hot-spring-fed pools in the country.

Calorie burners The resort does not have a fitness center, but you can take yoga and Pilates classes in its luxury spa (1-hour class, $25). Or hike in Indian Canyons, about 15 miles from the resort. Property of the Agua Caliente Native Americans, this group of beautiful canyons offers 120 miles of rugged trails that climb past pools, rock formations and tumbling streams ($6 admission; 800-790-3398).

Succulent sustenance Many of the dishes at Two Bunch Palms' Casino Dining Room are lowfat and low-sodium. Try the Espresso Crusted Beef Tenderloin Medallions. Entrees start at $24.

Don't miss the Native American treatment, which includes native blessings, dry heat, a soothing sand and aloe vera scrub followed by an herbal massage (90 minutes, $130). And also check out the resort's Clay Cabana, with four mud baths, massage treatment rooms, steam baths and a sun deck.

Info From $175; (800) 472-4334, twobunchpalms.com for lodging, spa and restaurant info and reservations

2. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Spa, Ojo Caliente, N.M.

Where it is About one hour north of Santa Fe

Secrets of the springs The springs were considered a sacred spot by the early Pueblo inhabitants of the plateau above the property. The resort, which features a Mission-style hotel, is nestled in the New Mexico hills, with sunsets that illuminate the glistening pools.

Soak it up Seven hot-spring pools range from 90[degrees]-109[degrees] F and each is named for the primary mineral it contains: the Iron Spring, the Arsenic Spring, the Soda Spring and so on.

Calorie burners Hike the 1/2-mile trail to the Posi ruins, believed to be the first habitats of the ancestors of the local Tewa tribe. The resort's yoga center offers a full roster of classes, including hour-long hatha or water yoga (woga) in the spring-fed Soda Pool (1-hour class, $8 for hotel guests, $10 for day guests). You'll be blissfully occupied from sunup (morning meditation, anyone?) to sundown.

Succulent sustenance Light spa and vegetarian fare is featured at Ojo Caliente's Artesian restaurant. Try the Portobello Napoleon--layers of mushroom, sauteed summer squash, spinach and goat cheese marinated in balsamic vinegar and topped with a roasted garlic tomato. The menu changes with the seasons; entrees start at $9.

Don't miss slathering yourself from head to toe in the rich, soothing mud from the Mud Pool. Don't let the goopy substance scare you away--what better way to become smooth and radiant than by getting dirty? (Free to hotel guests)

Info From $90 per night, from $699 for a four-day package, including four spa treatments; (800) 222-9162, ojocalientespa.com for lodging, spa and restaurant info and reservations

3. Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa, Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia, Canada

Where it is Three hours from Seattle, 1 1/2 hours from Vancouver, British Columbia

Secrets of the springs Originally a resting spot on the Gold Rush trails, the hot springs have drawn crowds for decades. The resort, located on the south shore of Harrison Lake and surrounded by 40 acres of wooded forests, also has a luxury spa and full-service marina offering many water sports and rentals.

Soak it up Enjoy nearly 8,000 square feet of hot springs ranging from 85[degrees]-104[degrees] F in three spring-fed outdoor and two indoor pools. Then head to the resort's Healing Springs Spa for Cleopatra's Secret Wrap, an hour-long treatment using local herbs ($90 CAN).