Soak, Relax, Repeat
A quick Google search will bring up a number of natural hot springs in Colorado. However, if you're looking for the best hot springs for a soak, you've come to the right place.
Our criteria included spots that were easily accessible, reputable and provided a variety of experiences. There's no point hiking through the wilderness only to arrive at a small pool that's already occupied, right? So, if you're looking for a weekend getaway or a soothing dip after a day on the slopes, these are the best of the best hot springs in Colorado.
And before you go, just be sure to call or visit websites for information on prices and hours, rules and reservation requirements. In no particular order, the top 5 hot springs in Colorado:
Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Glenwood Springs
Nestled into the bank of the Colorado River, Iron Mountain features 16, geothermal soaking pools of varying temps, all connected by heated walkways. There's also a freshwater family pool and locker rooms with showers for guests to use after a soak. Plus, there's no need to leave early with food and beverages readily available from The Sopris Café.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, Nathrop
Here, you can enjoy large pools for soaking and relaxing, plus individual creekside hot spring pools in a range of temperatures. This full-service and family-friendly resort also offers several dining options and lodging (creekside suites, cabins, classic rooms) which also gives overnight guests access to more pool and hot spring experiences.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Steamboat Springs
Just seven miles from downtown Steamboat, this park offers stone-lined soaking pools, plus a heated changing cabin, rustic lodging and massages. They have limited concessions here, but you can pack a lunch and enjoy the picnic areas. If you'd like to stay the night, book a tent camping site in summer—or perhaps, a train caboose or covered wagon.
The Springs Resort & Spa, Pagosa Springs
Explore 25 pools filled from the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, rich in elements and minerals. Unique touches include poolside drink service and the ability to upgrade to the adult-only Relaxation Terrace. Spring Resort also offers spa treatments, dining options, plus rooms and suites at the Lodge for a rejuvenating, weekend getaway.
Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa, Durango
Here you'll discover 16 natural hot spring mineral pools, 8 cedar soaking tubs, a mineral water rain tower, resort-style swimming pool, dry Finnish sauna, concessions and more. They are the only hot springs to utilize the AquaGen water system to infuse pools with nano-meter and micro-meter oxygen bubbles to cleanse their water without chemicals.
Even More Experiences
While not technically hot springs, SunWater is a great spot to relax in cedar tubs filled with heated mineral water direct from the Seven Minute Spring. Guests also have access to saunas, the main pool, plus spa services and yoga classes.
If the mountain roads are looking treacherous, stay local. Here, you can reserve a private room with a sauna and cedar tub, and as the name implies, soak in water steeped with hops, barley and herbs–all while sipping a cold craft beer.
Looking for a private getaway? This restored ghost town has been transformed into an all-inclusive, luxury resort that offers mineral hot springs for soaking, authentic yet well-appointed cabins, spa services, activities and fine dining.
The Health Benefits of Hot Springs
Can soaking in hot, mineral-rich waters cure what ails you? While most claims are anecdotal, there are a few benefits steeped in science, thus we have treatment options like hydrotherapy and balneotherapy.
Of course, this isn't medical advice, so always consult with your physician before diving into hot springs therapy.
- Reduced Pain – If you have general aches or pain (perhaps due to a long day on the slopes), arthritis, even fibromyalgia, soaking in hot springs can help by blocking pain receptors when you first step into the pool.
- Increased Relaxation – Similar to taking a bath, hot springs can potentially lower stress. In a study looking into the benefits of bathing, 80% of participants reported feelings of relaxation, relief from fatigue, and refreshment.
- Improved Circulation – Hot springs with heavy mineral content increases hydrostatic pressure around your body, boosting heart rate, blood flow and cardiac output. It can also stimulate your metabolism and immune system.
- Better Skin – A high amount of silica in the water can help with rough and dry skin (pretty common in Colorado's arid climate). The right mineral content can even address chronic issues like eczema, acne and psoriasis.
Now that you know where to find the best hot springs in Colorado and how they can potentially refresh both your mind and body, it's time to make plans for a day trip or longer getaway. Happy soaking!
Download our list of top Colorado hot springs for easy reference.
