Colorado’s Geothermal Gems
Nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado boasts a treasure trove of natural hot springs. These steaming oases, revered for centuries by indigenous people, offer a unique blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and connection to the state's rich geological history. Let's embark on a journey through 7 of Colorado's most captivating hot springs, delving into their fascinating past, safety considerations, and the ideal times to visit.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort recently announced its expectation for five pools to debut in 2024. The pools of varying shapes, sizes and temperatures will be situated 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.
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.
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.
Established in the 1860s, Indian Hot Springs offers a historical ambiance with multiple soaking pools nestled amidst a scenic canyon. Stay nearby at Club Hotel, a remodeled, 10-room historic hotel offering mountain views and free coffe 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.
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 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.
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 these rustic hot springs nestled amidst a secluded valley, near Steamboat Springs.
Enjoy beautiful massage facilities, complete with our trademark stonemasonry, where traditional table massage and watsu massage are offered.
CASH ONLY. NO credit cards or checks.
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.
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.
Our hot springs are open daily to the public, year-round! Guests staying overnight enjoy two days of access to our 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 our 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.
Exclusive Spa & Club
For those seeking an elevated retreat, our 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.
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, they 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.
