My 8 Favorite Hot Springs In Colorado
I’ve spent alot of time in Colorado and always fall in love with the people and the rugged mountains. It’s also a great place to explore hot springs of all kinds.
It’s also a great jumping off spot for a roadtrip around the southwest. I like to add in a trip to hot springs in neighboring states like New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Texas.
Not included here is Iron Mountain Hot Springs. They just created the first publicly accessible sauna and plunge pool experience in Glenwood Springs. While at their Colorado location stay nearby at the cozy Hotel Glenwood Springs.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has pools of varying shapes, sizes and temperatures east of what is known as the world's largest hot spring-fed pool. The pools are the latest in what the resort calls its biggest expansion project since it opened in 1888. If you are lucky you might get a healing from the Ute Queen.
Established in 1888, Glenwood boasts the world's largest hot spring pool. This iconic landmark has attracted visitors for over a century, offering a historical and luxurious soaking experience. Learn more from our interview with their CMO, Jackie Stauffer.
Rich in sulfates, calcium, magnesium, and silica, the waters offer potential benefits for muscle relaxation, joint pain relief, and improved circulation. Specific mineral quantities vary depending on the pool.
Nearby try rafting on the Colorado River or horseback riding.
Secret Tip: Visit during the winter months to experience the unique contrast of the warm water against the crisp mountain air.
Best Time to Go: Year-round, with spring and fall offering pleasant weather.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Slight sulfur smell, but clean)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible, ample parking)
Ability to be Alone: 2 stars (Busy atmosphere, large shared pool)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Minerals like sulfates may offer some benefits)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Spa services, restaurants, lodging options)
Indian Hot Springs
This is a close spring if you’re hanging out in Denver for a bit, as I was. I went to Indian Hot Springs when the trees and creeks were covered in snow. The indoor pool is fed by the hot springs where you relax while inside a glass dome.
If you want to get away, go down into the hot springs caves that were enjoyed by Wild Bill. Don’t worry you’ll be safe since these are single gender hot springs. There are 3 to 4 individual pools and a changing area with showers.
Established in the 1860s, Indian Hot Springs offers a historical ambiance with multiple soaking pools nestled amidst a scenic canyon.
I stayed at the resort in a twin bed that reminded me of my college dorm days. For more space, stay nearby at Club Hotel, a remodeled, 10-room historic hotel offering mountain views and free coffee and tea all day.
Waters are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and lithium, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Specific mineral quantities haven't been widely documented.
Secret Tip: Combine your visit with a scenic hike or bike ride on nearby trails.
Safety: The pools can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arrive early to avoid large crowds.
Best Time to Go: Spring, summer, and early fall offer comfortable weather for outdoor soaking.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Slight sulfur smell, but clean)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short walk from parking lot)
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars (Moderate crowds, some secluded areas)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Minerals like sulfates and lithium may offer some benefits)
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (Limited amenities, restaurants within short driving distance)
Pagosa Hot Springs
Pagosa hot springs boasts the world's deepest geothermal aquifer, feeding numerous natural pools with varying temperatures and settings. Stay nearby at Pagosa River Domes cozy geodesic domes with a view of fall colors.
The spring waters contain varying levels of sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and silica, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and improved circulation. Specific mineral compositions differ across the springs.
If you like this one, don’t miss out on 29 other hot spring mud baths!
Secret Tip: Explore the town of Pagosa Springs, known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.
Safety: Be cautious of slippery rocks near the natural pools and wear appropriate footwear.
Best Time to Go: Year-round, with spring, summer, and early fall offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa
The Hot Sulphur Springs Resort and Spa sits right on the Colorado River off of Route 40. The resort offers a variety of pools, water slides, and kid-friendly activities, making it ideal for families.
Stay nearby in Granby at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains to enjoy a hot tub and a fitness room, kitchen, and an onsite mini market.
The water comes from 7 springs on the mountain and flows through our 18 man made pools to our duck pond and on into the Colorado River. Each pool is relatively small and only holds a couple of people. Some hold more than others and a few only hold one or maybe two people! The Lobster Pot only holds one person and is about 110-115 degrees. This pool is definitely cooking!
Newly renovated locker rooms with showers and changing areas. Lockers are coin operated and are 50 cents a one time use.
Children under 3 are free. They offer robe and towel rentals.
Note: Their website clearly states If at Any time Lightning is with in 5 miles of the facilities we will CLOSE ALL POOLS AND SHOWERS UNTIL LIGHTNING PASSES. NO REFUNDS!.
The spring waters contain sulfates, minerals, and alkali elements, offering potential benefits for muscle relaxation and general well-being.
Sodium - 435mg/l - Balances fluid in the body, helps regulate blood pressure and blood volume.
Sulfate - 145mg/l - Essential for hair, nails, and skin; helps flush toxins to purify and detoxify the body.
Chloride - 145mg/l - Balances the pH level in your body.
Silica - 33mg/l - Reduces aches and pains, helps maintain flexibility.
Potassium - 24mg/l - Helps organs and muscle function.
Calcium - 15mg/l - Build bones, teeth, and maintains bone strength.
Fluoride - 11mg/l - Helps Strengthen teeth.
Magnesium - 3.2mg/l - Muscle Relaxant, increases energy levels, helps in absorption of minerals.
Lithium - 1.3 mg/l - Promotes Tranquility.
Secret Tip: Take advantage of the resort's spa services for a truly pampering experience.
Safety: The resort enforces strict safety regulations, especially in areas with children.
Best Time to Go: Year-round, with summer offering the warmest weather for enjoying the outdoor pools.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Slight sulfur smell, but clean)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short walk from resort buildings)
Ability to be Alone: 2 stars (Busy atmosphere, multiple shared pools)
Water Temperature: 5 stars (Multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Minerals like sulfates and lithium may offer some benefits)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Spa services, restaurants, lodging within walking distance)
Cottonwood Hot Springs
Nestled amidst towering cottonwood trees, these natural pools offer a secluded and peaceful escape for relaxation. Cottonwood hot springs is located in a high mountain natural ecosystem area of the majestic Collegiate Peaks Range, bordered by Cottonwood Creek and surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest. They are located 5 1/2 miles west of the picturesque town of Buena Vista, Colorado.
Stay in Buena Vista at the South Main Residences by Surf Hotel with mountain views, outdoor fireplace, and kitchen.
Temperatures in the hottest of the natural hot springs soaking tubs range from 94° F. to 110° F. Swimsuits are required at all times. Children 16 and under must vacate the soaking tubs after dark. They have no lifeguard on duty.
The spring waters are rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and improved circulation. Mineral levels include:
Arsenic (As) 4.5 UG/L
Magnesium (Mg) 0.4 UG/L
Boron (B) 92.5 UG/L
Manganese (Mn) 10 UG/L
Calcium (Ca) 5.9 MG/L
Nitrogen (N) 0.12 MG/L
Chloride (Cl) 30 MG/L
Potassium (K) 2.7 MG/L
Fluoride (F) 14 UG/L
Silica (SiO2) 57 MG/L
Iron (Fe) 10 UG/L
Sodium (Na) 105 MG/L
Lithium (Li) 155 UG/L
Sulfate (SO4) 110 MG/L
Zinc (Zn) 15 UG/L
Secret Tip: Visit during the week to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Safety: Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, such as deer and elk, in the surrounding area.
Best Time to Go: Spring, summer, and early fall offer comfortable weather for outdoor soaking.
Strawberry Hot Springs
Venture off the grid and discover the rustic Strawberry hot springs nestled amidst a secluded valley, near Steamboat Springs.
Enjoy beautiful massage facilities, complete with their trademark stone masonry, where traditional table massage and watsu massage are offered.
Note: CASH ONLY. NO credit cards or checks. You will need a 4 wheel drive vehicle to get here or can take the bus. No pets are allowed on the property.
Pools are typically no cooler than 102 deg F, children are not allowed after dark, and any children under the age of 3 must be in a swim diaper. Additionally, all youth under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult parent / guardian. The pools are clothing optional after dark.
The springs are natural so wear water shoes to avoid slipping on the algae. The warmest one on your left as you cross the foot bridge is the smallest. Cooler as you go further away from that one into the two larger pools.
The pools are beautifully integrated along a flowing creek, with cold plunge options, small camp trailers, tent sites, even a massage area.
The cabin is precious, located right near the hot springs creek so you can hear the rushing water.
Buffalo Pass Road provides access to both dispersed and established – site camping. Buffalo Pass Road is approximately 6 miles from the springs. You can also camp by backpacking on Lower Bear Trail, only about ½ mile from our location.
You can also stay at Residence Inn by Marriott Steamboat Springs with outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, a shared lounge and bar and a beautiful view of the mountains.
The spring water is rich in sulfates, minerals, and iron, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and improved circulation.
Secret Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, as the springs have a limited capacity.
Safety: The location is remote, so be prepared with proper gear and plan your trip accordingly. Cell service may be limited. 4-wheel or AWD with snow tires/chains required Nov 1st to May 1st.
Best Time to Go: Spring, summer, and early fall offer the most accessible conditions. Winter access may be challenging.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Indulge in a luxurious hot spring experience with stunning mountain views and a variety of pools with varying temperatures and mineral compositions at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort.
Hot springs are open daily to the public, year-round! Guests staying overnight enjoy two days of access to the relaxing, family-friendly hot springs at no extra cost. Nestled in the heart of Nathrop, Colorado, between Buena Vista and Salida.
Let go of stress in the Soaking Pool, or Exercise Pool. For a serene escape, wander to Creekside Hot Springs, where the gentle sounds of nature accompany your soak.
Venture further to discover the Upper Pools, offering a range of temperatures to suit your preference. And don’t miss the breathtaking Infinity Pool and the seasonal Water Slide where panoramic views of the surrounding mountains elevate your relaxation to new heights.
For those seeking an elevated retreat, the Spa & Club awaits. Reserved for overnight guests aged 16 and above, as well as spa treatment patrons
The spring water varies in composition depending on the pool, offering a range of minerals including sulfates, calcium, magnesium, and iron. Specific quantities haven't been widely documented, and potential health benefits may vary.
Secret Tip: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak season, as the resort can fill up quickly.
Safety: The resort has lifeguards on duty and well-maintained facilities.
Best Time to Go: Year-round, with summer offering the most outdoor activities and amenities. Winter provides a snowy wonderland experience.
Charlotte Hot Springs and Botanical Gardens
Colorado’s newest hot spring has a beautiful tropical indoor garden to explore while you are taking a break from your soak. Located on Route 306 near Buena Vista dive into the waters at Charlotte Hot Springs and Botanical Gardens.
The greenhouses sit on the 60-acre property now also home to Charlotte Hot Springs. The same geothermal water feeding the greenhouses also feeds the pools. A waterfall pours into a pond, serenading visitors who have taken their packed lunches inside.
Outside, soak in the pools on a terraced, fenced-in deck surrounded by pines, with Mount Princeton in view. Costs are $30 for adults (older than 17) Monday-Thursday, $25 for youth, seniors and military. Day passes are $5 more Friday-Sunday.
There are also two rustic cabins a short drive away, with their own private hot springs: the one-bedroom Holloway Cabin (starting at $450 a night) and the two-bedroom Merrifield Cabin ($600).
Visit nearby Buena Vista for rock climbing, hiking, snowmobiling, rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, music, great food, hotsprings, and a drive-in theater.
