In 1912, homesteader Molly Bartlett — daughter of Montana Governor Robert B. Smith — was searching for water beneath the dry Montana landscape when drilling unexpectedly unleashed a powerful eruption of steaming artesian water from deep underground. That discovery became known as the Mother Dragon Geyser and remains the heart of Wild Horse Hot Springs today.
Discover the Magic of Wild Horse Hot Springs Hot Spring
An Accidental Discovery
What began as a search for water became one of Montana’s most unique geothermal discoveries. The Mother Dragon still naturally flows nearly 1,200 gallons per minute from deep beneath the earth.
Why Lithium Matters
Wild Horse contains unusually high natural lithium levels compared to many other hot springs. Lithium-rich mineral waters have long been associated with calming, grounding soaking traditions that many guests seek for stress relief and relaxation.
More Than Hot Water
The Mother Dragon waters contain over 30 naturally occurring minerals including silica, magnesium, calcium, bicarbonates, and trace elements commonly found in geothermal mineral springs around the world.
A Different Kind Of Escape
Wild Horse was never designed to feel polished or commercial. Guests come here for open skies, quiet nights, unplugged moments, and the feeling of stepping outside modern life for a while.
Heat, Minerals & Recovery
Hot mineral soaking — also known as balneotherapy — has been studied for its potential benefits on circulation, muscle recovery, stress reduction, sleep, and joint discomfort. Warm mineral waters may help relax muscles, improve blood flow, and support overall relaxation after travel, outdoor activity, or everyday stress.
Minerals Found In Mother Dragon Waters
What's In The Water?
What some of these minerals do...
Lithium
Associated with calming and restorative mineral soaking traditions.
Silica
Often linked to skin softness and healthy skin appearance.
Magnesium
Commonly associated with muscle relaxation and recovery.
Calcium
Naturally occurring mineral important in many geothermal springs.
Bicarbonates
Often connected to soothing soaking experiences and circulation support.
Sodium & Chloride
Help create the naturally mineralized geothermal water composition.
Strontium & Boron
Trace minerals naturally present in many underground thermal water systems.
