Hot Springs
Posted: Wed Jan 13, 2010 6:54 pmWow oh wow- this place is seriously cool!. First, I can't say enough about this nice park called Cloud nine RV Park - run by two women! It's beautiful, has all the amenities and is 10 miles from town. They have fresh baked cookies or cake every day FREE in the clubhouse and coffee and other hot drinks 24/7. Went into town today - love it. First I drove up a mountain to the observation tower and yes, i did go up to the observation deck. (Major accomplishment, since i don't "do heights") Seriously gorgeous views. The road up was a little hairy - such tight curves that the rig scraped bottom a couple times. This is the town where Bill Clinton grew up and they are very proud of that. Although I have never been, and probably never will be a fan of his, it's still neat to read and hear about his high school days etc. Then found the parking lot in town specifically for RVs and buses - and it's free. i saw the meter lady run people off who parked there in regular vehicles. Went into the National Park display, watched interesting 15 min video and then toured the restored bath house they own. Wandered around town, marveling at all the places the steaming springs are accessible. Grabbed a sandwich and took it back to the rig to eat. The parking lot was next to one of many lcations around town where people come and fill jugs and bottles with the mineral water - free. As I ate I watched in amazement how much traffic there was. Then it was finally time to do what I had been waiting for - bathe in it. Chose Buckstaff Baths - owned by NPS and recommended by lady at cg. Bought basic package for$24 + tax and this is what I got. First, super big, deep tub is filled and your arms and legs are scrubbed by the attendant. Then you lay back with a neck roll and a board at the end to brace your feet and they turn on the whirlpool and you soak for about 20 minutes. Next you head to a sitz bath - remember how great these felt after having a baby, especially on the stitches? The lady said these were great for the lower back and hip area. Next is the steam cabinet. You sit on a bench and little doors close around your neck, leaving just your head out. there is a soft towel to rest it on and you steam for 5 minutes. You can feel cool wate down by your feet and that keeps you from melting. Next are the hot packs - you lay face up on a padded table and they ask you where you hurt and they bring steaming hot wet towels and wrap those areas as well as a cool one for your forehead. Last, but not least is this amazing shower for just a few minutes. You stand in it and the jet like things spray you from the neck down abot 240 degrees around your body but there are probably 100 of them. It's awesomely amazingly relaxing and I didn't even get the massage. If I had, I might not have been able to drive home.
