Norris Hot Springs: Of Cowboy Hats & Bikinis
Norris Hot Springs has the uniquely Montana distinction of being a place where farmers, ranchers, city hipsters, outdoor enthusiasts and tourists from all around the world can meet in bathing suits and stocking caps in natural artesian, thermal hot springs water. Norris, Montana is an unincorporated community, set amongst an arid, hilly landscape in the foothills of the Tobacco Root mountains. According to the 2010 census, Norris has a population of 133 people in an area of 133 square miles, meaning that the population density is one person per square mile! Much of the local revenue base in the areas surrounding Norris involve ranching and mining with pockets of tourism and some world-class fly fishing. Ennis is just down the road and has a whopping population numbering in the low 1000s. Virginia City, which became a base operations for mining in the mid-to-late 1800s is the county seat for Madison County and now boasts a population in low 200s. Then there’s Pony, home of the Pony Bar, with a year-round population of less than 200 people. Norris anchors this rural community, making it possible for people from different backgrounds to come together in an easy, natural setting. The beauty of Norris Hot Springs is that everyone is welcome. To celebrate the spirit of inclusiveness and generosity, Norris invites people to soak for free on their birthday! Norris draws locals, city folks from Bozeman, Helena and surrounds, along with national and international tourists. Despite varied lifestyles, values and economic backgrounds, people come to the springs with a shared appreciation for the hot artesian water that burbles up from the depths of the earth and is heated by the earth’s molten mantle. Hot springs have long been considered a place of healing and connecting with the primal earth. Add in beautiful views, fabulous local, organic food made with skill and attention, a carefully curated beverage list and live music, and the charm of Norris Hot Springs endures. Norris also offers live, acoustic music featuring a variety of genres every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night starting at 7 pm, with a $2 cover. Here’s the upcoming lineup.
On Friday, February 28th, up-and-coming Montana musician Joseph Running Crane brings his maturing Americana/folk interpretations to the poolside stage. Check out his show at Norris, and when he makes it big, you’ll be able to say you saw him back in the day!
Enjoy the talents of Headwaters on Saturday, February 29th. The duo plays acoustic blues in the manner of Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, Mississippi John Hurt and other blues legends. Art Butler drives the music on the resonator. Phil Cohea plays rhythm guitar, harmonica and vocals for that genuine juke joint sound.
Norris’ very own Andrew Gromiller is set to open a new month on Sunday, March 1st. He’ll perform a selection of soul, rock, rhythm & blues, bluegrass, gospel, folk, originals and choice cover songs for soakers
If you’re looking for a way to deepen in relaxation and self-care and want to check out a unique crossroads of cultures in rural Montana, Norris is the place for you. For operating hours, menus and the complete music calendar, visit www.norrishotsprings.com. Follow on Facebook and Instagram (@norrishotsprings). •