The Boulder Hot Springs Inn, Spa, and Retreat Center in Boulder, Montana, seems like an idyllic place to relax and get away from it all. But is this historic hotel in bucolic peace Valley haunted by the ghost of a murdered prostitute? Originally constructed in 1863, Boulder Hot Springs and Spa has hosted at least three Presidents, as well as celebrities, wealthy vacationers, and anyone looking to relax and heal in the mineral waters of the local hot springs. The surrounding natural beauty is unparalleled, because the hotel sits at the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountains. That view is why one of the more striking features of the Inn is a veranda furnished with 50 rocking chairs that look out over the Valey; At various times in its long history, the property has also been an addiction treatment center, a dude ranch for greenhorns, and even a working cattle ranch.
An Unquiet Spirit in Peace Valley
The resident spirit of the Inn is “Simone,” the ghost of a prostitute who peddled her trade in the resort’s early days. According to the backstory, Simone was murdered there by a mining executive from Butte who was overcome with jealousy.
Simone now reportedly roams the hallways and rooms where she spent the last part of her earthly life. Over the years, guests and employees have reported:
– The unexplained smell of perfume
– Disembodied footsteps
– Cold spots
– A woman in a white dress staring out of a third-floor window
The owner, Anne Wilson Schaeff, embraces Simon’s ghost – there is a room named in her honor, and when Anne makes herself a cup of tea, she makes one for Simone as well. The Inn even offers “Ghost Vacations,” with day trips to Elkhorn Ghost Town and other nearby haunts. The Boulder Hot Springs Inn, Spa, and Retreat Center is worth visiting just for its fascinating history, beautiful decor, and access to natural beauty. But if you like a bit of haunting in your hotel, this is the Ghost Vacation for you.
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