In recent years, saunas and steam rooms have taken center stage in the wellness world. From celebrity endorsements to social media popularity, more and more people are discovering the powerful health benefits of heat therapy. At Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, guests don’t have to choose — we offer both a dry sauna and a steam room inside our Wellness Center, giving you two ways to relax, recharge, and care for your body.

If you’re curious about which option is right for you, let’s take a closer look at the unique benefits of each.

The Dry Sauna Experience

Just as the name suggests, a dry sauna uses heat (without steam) to create an intense yet soothing environment. At Rumbling Bald, our sauna reaches temperatures between 175º–180ºF, making it an ideal place to unwind while supporting your overall health.

Important to Know: The dry sauna is designed for heat only. Pouring water on the heating elements can cause serious damage to the unit and create a safety concern. Unlike a steam room, the sauna does not use moisture, so the best way to enjoy it is to simply sit back, relax, and let the dry heat do the work.

Proven Health Benefits of Regular Sauna Use

  • Cardiovascular health – Studies link frequent sauna use to a lower risk of sudden cardiac death, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
  • Improved circulation – Heat exposure encourages blood flow, helping deliver oxygen throughout the body.
  • Detoxification – Sweating helps flush toxins and impurities.
  • Reduced inflammation & muscle soreness – Perfect after a round of golf or a mountain hike.
  • Cognitive health – Some research even shows a reduced risk of dementia.

Pro Tip for Beginners: Start small. If it’s your first time, spend 5–10 minutes and gradually build up to 15–30 minutes. Always hydrate well before and after your session to avoid dehydration.

Benefits increase with frequency of use. It’s important to remember that your chances of dehydration increase the longer you stay in the sauna, so a general rule of thumb is to limit your time to around 15–30 minutes. Always listen to your body and what it can tolerate.

The Steam Room Experience

Unlike a sauna, a steam room combines heat with high humidity for a distinctly different feel. While the temperature may also reach up to 180ºF, the moist air makes it feel warmer and often more intense. Like a dry sauna, regular use of a steam room also comes with a multitude of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Steam Rooms

  • Respiratory support – Steam helps open airways, making breathing easier and improving lung function.
  • Stress relief & relaxation – A soothing environment that melts tension away.
  • Skin hydration – Steam naturally softens and moisturizes the skin.
  • Joint & muscle relief – The combination of heat and moisture can ease stiffness and promote flexibility.

For those who prefer a more hydrating experience, steam rooms can feel especially restorative after physical activity or during the dry winter months.

Choosing What’s Best for You

The choice between a dry sauna and a steam room depends on an individual’s personal preference, but both are great additions to your wellness routine. They both offer significant health benefits. Do you enjoy the dry, penetrating heat of a sauna? Or the warm, humid environment of a steam room? Many guests love alternating between the two as part of their wellness routine.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before you step into the sauna or steam room, consider the following:

  • Hydrate properly: Drink 16–32 oz. of water before, during (if possible), and after your session. Replenish with electrolytes if needed. If you had a longer session or tend to sweat more heavily, you may need to consume more water to replenish lost fluids.
  • Limit alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol before or after use.
  • Take breaks: If you plan multiple sessions, step out, cool down, and rehydrate between rounds.
  • Check with your doctor: Individuals with conditions such as heart disease, asthma, epilepsy, or high/low blood pressure—or those who are pregnant or on certain medications—should consult a physician before use.

A Wellness Experience at Rumbling Bald

At Rumbling Bald, our dry sauna and steam room are within our Wellness Center, located alongside our indoor pool. While these amenities are available to members and lodging guests, anyone booking a treatment at our Spa & Salon also receives access, plus two additional hours before and after your service to enjoy them.

Whether you’re looking to relax sore muscles after a round of golf, rejuvenate after a hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or simply treat yourself to a wellness escape, our sauna and steam room are the perfect pairing of health and luxury.

Wellness Etiquette

To help keep our wellness amenities in top shape for everyone to enjoy:

  • The dry sauna is heat only. Please do not pour water on the heating elements, as this can damage the unit and create safety issues.
  • Stay hydrated before and after your session.
  • Be mindful of time and give others a chance to enjoy the space.

Thank you for helping us create a safe and relaxing environment.

Call 828.694.3017 to book your Spa & Salon service and experience the benefits of both, or visit our website to begin planning your escape. We’re ready for you.