Anderson Springs
Anderson Springs flows at 77°F in Sweet Grass County, Montana, at 5,540 feet elevation along the East Boulder River drainage. USGS measurements confirm 25°C. The near-neutral water (pH 7.7) carries substantial calcium (74 mg/L) and sulfate (130 mg/L) with almost no sodium or chloride, indicating local carbonate rock dissolution rather than deep-sourced heating.
The spring emerges about 248 feet from East Boulder Road near Big Timber, in a mountain valley flanked by the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness to the south and the Crazy Mountains to the north. At 5,540 feet, the terrain supports mixed conifer forest and riparian meadow along the Boulder River corridor. Annual snowfall reaches 116 inches and precipitation totals 29 inches, creating a wet mountain environment. The Absaroka Range skyline dominates the southern horizon.
The spring's name likely references an early homesteading or ranching family in the Boulder River valley. Sweet Grass County was organized in 1895, and the valley saw cattle ranching as its primary enterprise. Documented historical use of Anderson Springs is sparse. No commercial bathing or resort development has occurred at the site.
Access is best from June through October, as heavy snowfall closes higher-elevation roads. The 248-foot walk from East Boulder Road crosses open terrain. West Boulder Cabin, a reservable Forest Service rental 13 km away, has electricity and a cook stove, accessible by vehicle in summer but may require snowshoes in winter. Big Timber, on Interstate 90, provides the nearest full services.
Is Anderson Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Anderson Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 7.7).
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Overview West Boulder Cabin is open year-round, offering a variety of recreational opportunities as well as relaxation. Guests can drive to the cabin in warmer weather but should be prepared to snowshoe, ski or snowmobile up to a mile on county roads in the winter.The cabin has electric lights and an electric cook stove. A refrigerator is also provided. Rental camping equipment, such as ice chests, bear spray, campstoves, etc., are available locally in Bozeman. Guests will need to bring many...