17 Colorado Hot Springs Calling for a Dip In 2024
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Hot springs in Colorado vary from developed properties to undeveloped ones found via a hiking trail
Hot Springs in Colorado are natural mineral-rich pools of water that have been heated naturally over time. They’re geothermally wonderful!
Take a dip in these hot springs located throughout this Rocky Mountain state, each known for their healing properties.
Some hot springs are primitive and require a short, or sometimes long hike — these are free! We’ve hiked to Radium, with Conundrum and Penny Hot Springs next on our list.
There are also many developed hot springs in Colorado that you’ll love soaking in after a good, long trek.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs is an excellent alternative
Some of these hot springs resorts offer amazing lodging — ideal for longer stays and multi-day adventures. You don’t have to stay overnight to soak though.
Hot springs can sometimes include geysers, mud pots, and fumaroles! But the ones talked about here are clean, safe, and perfect for relaxation and revitalization.
All of these hot springs are near some of the best Colorado trails.
Let’s get going to our favorite hot springs all around Colorado.
Map of Hot Springs in Colorado
Click on this image to take you to the Google Maps driving route of the major hot springs in Colorado
Above is a map of the bigger developed Colorado hot springs locations mentioned in this article, helpful if you’re dreaming of a hot springs road trip.
Hot Springs in Colorado
What’s covered here
Hikes to 6 Natural Hot Springs in Colorado
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort (plus three more nearby!)
Glenwood Springs (two favorites here)
Steamboat Springs - Old Town and Strawberry Park
Indian Hot Springs near Denver
Hot Sulphur Springs near RMNP
Hikes to Hot Springs in Colorado (primitive)
Here are six undeveloped and primitive hot springs pools that require anywhere from a super short hike to an overnight backpacking trip.
Often you’ll find that clothing is optional at these primitive Colorado hot springs.
Our favorite so far, we loved the short, albeit steep, hike to Radium hot springs on the Colorado River.
Radium Hot Springs in Colorado involves a short, steep hike in a remote area
Radium Hot Springs
To reach Radium Hot Springs on the Colorado River, there are actually two routes.
We followed this map on AllTrails. Read other hikers’ latest comments and research this hike while you have cell service in order to know where to park and start your hike.
Download a map ahead of your trip as there is no cell service in the area.
Obviously, the fastest way to reach Radium Hot Springs is by raft or kayak. This is a popular stop for rafters on the Colorado.
If hiking, wear sturdy shoes as you will be climbing up and scrambling down to reach the springs.
PRO TIP: A sunrise hike during the week offers a much better chance at having hot springs like these all to yourselves. Prepare yourself for the possibility of nude bathers or crowds in the middle of the day, especially on the weekend.
How to reach the trailhead to Radium Hot Springs: From CO-9 in Kremmling, head southwest on County Rd 1 / Trough Rd. Travel on Trough Rd. for 14.4 miles and then make a sharp right turn onto County Hwy 11. After about 1.5 miles you will come upon a closed campground on your left; soon after you will see an electrical box on the right by a trail going steeply up the hill. Hike 0.7 miles following this map in All Trails.
Conundrum Hot Springs near Crested Butte
5 more hikes to hot springs include:
Conundrum Hot Springs (Crested Butte) The Conundrum Creek Trail, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, generally parallels Conundrum Creek weaving 8.5 miles and 2,500 vertical feet up the valley and through the woods and meadows to the popular Conundrum Hot Springs. The best time to visit Conundrum Hot Springs is July through September. From early October to late June, the campsites and trail are snow covered and the trailhead is inaccessible. Be informed.
NOTE: A permit is required for overnight stays within the Conundrum Hot Springs Zone, including all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, and Conundrum Hot Springs. This permit must be acquired in advance at recreation.gov.
Rainbow Hot Springs on the San Juan River (25 miles from Pagosa Springs) This 10.0-mile out-and-back trail near Pagosa Springs, Colorado climbs 1600+ feet in elevation. You’ll need 2-3 hours to hike there and the best times to visit this trail are June through September.
You will hike through the Weminuche Wilderness Area within the San Juan National Forest. You are allowed to camp near the hot springs.
Piedra River Hot Springs (also near Pagosa Springs) An easy three-mile round trip hike to the Piedra River Hot Springs is a great half day option. Naturally fed along the Piedra River, south of Pagosa Springs, these primitive hot springs are
Penny Hot Springs (near Aspen) Found on the Crystal River near Carbondale, Colorado, Penny Hot Springs is another great mineral hot springs. Clothing is optional. Hot Spring Tips: Penny Hot Springs is day use only. There is no camping at the hot springs.
South Canyon Hot Springs (near Glenwood Springs) Just 15 minutes from town, these natural hot springs are a great option to avoid the crowds at Glenwood Hot Springs. In less than a quarter of a mile, you’ll reach South Canyon Hot Springs.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
This large geothermal pool at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is for ages 16+, with three smaller hot springs varying in temperature right next to it.
If you are looking for hot springs in Buena Vista Colorado, you’re in one of our favorite stomping grounds.
The Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is ideal for romantic couples getaways as well as family summer vacations, year round.
We have visited these historic hot springs in Colorado a dozen times. Found in the tiny town of Nathrop, just between Buena Vista and Salida, it only takes a gorgeous two hour drive from Colorado Springs to get there and unwind.
When you opt for an overnight stay at Mount Princeton, one night allows you two days of access to the hot mineral water fed pools and natural hots springs in the river.
It pays to book ahead at Mount Princeton, as their rooms fill quickly.
All ages can enjoy the Historic Bath House exercise or soaking pools and the Creekside Hot Springs down in Chalk Creek.
Historic bathhouse at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Colorado
Also great for families, the Upper Pools are connected by a lazy river and include waterslides and an infinity pool. Note: the Upper Pools are open in summer only.
ADULTS ONLY: The Spa and Club Relaxation Pool is set aside for ages 16 and up, as are the three Cascading Hot Springs that vary in temperature from 101-107 degrees.
Where to stay on Mount Princeton
At Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, it pays to book ahead, as many rooms sell out. Aim for the lovely new Creekside Suites!
Or book this sweet log cabin on the banks of Chalk Creek, just 2.5 miles up the road and visit the hot springs by day.
Address: 15870 Co Rd 162, Nathrop, CO
Creekside hot springs at Mount Princeton resort
Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn and Spa
Looking for a smaller, more quaint hot springs in Colorado? Check out Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn and Spa or the Merrifield Homestead Cabins and Hot Springs - just 1/3 mile apart along Cottonwood Pass. Hip woodsy cabins with glowing hot springs reviews.
NEW in 2024! CHARLOTTE HOT SPRINGS
Charlotte Hot Springs is found right next to Merrifield’s Greenhouses at 19256 County Road 343.
With three soaking pools now open at Charlotte Hot Springs, you will also be able to enjoy an indoor botanical garden when construction is complete in the early half of 2024.
Hikes Near Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Hike the short Agnes Vaille Falls Trail (just 4 miles up the road) or aim for the more challenging, but super rewarding Browns Creek Waterfall Trail. Looking for a 14er? Mount Princeton is just 4.4 miles from here. Learn about our favorite area hikes here.
RELATED: For a super fun 50 mile diversion between Mount Princeton and Pagosa Springs, Sled Down North America’s Tallest Sand Dune in Great Sand Dunes National Park
Browns Creek Waterfall
Pagosa Hot Springs and Resort
Adult terrace at Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is a town in southwest Colorado known for its historic geothermal hot springs. This is also the best hot springs near Durango.
Coming from the Great Sand Dunes? Then you’ll love the jaw dropping drive on Wolf Creek Pass, where you’ll discover all kinds of winter fun and summer hikes.
Once in Pagosa Springs, you’ll find The Springs Resort & Spa right on the San Juan River that flows through town. In summer, spy whitewater rafters floating under the bridge.
These enticing Colorado hot springs and therapeutic mineral waters well up from the Earth’s deepest geothermal hot spring.
Overlooking the San Juan River and open year-round, take a dip in the resort’s 25 mineral pools boast a wide range of temperatures from 83-114 °F.
Address: 323 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO
Looking for something on the cheaper side for a day pass only? Consider Overlook Hot Springs Spa.
How about hiking 4.5 miles to free, natural hot springs? Then check out Rainbow Hot Springs - #2 in the hikes to hot springs we mention above.
EXPLORE: From Pagosa Springs, you’re not far from exploring Ancient Puebloan dwellings in Mesa Verde.
Take a dip in all 25 pools at Pagosa Hot Springs
WHERE TO STAY IN PAGOSA SPRINGS
The Springs Resort & Spa - including luxury suites that sleep six!
Choose between excellent cabins close to hiking and fishing, or beautiful homes in downtown Pagosa.
From Pagosa Springs don’t miss the thrilling drive along the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray via Durango and Silverton.
Ouray Hot Springs
Great views from the Ouray hot springs adult terrace — the kids pools are excellent here too!
Knicknamed “Switzerland of America,” our family fell in love with Ouray during our camping trip at Amphitheater Campground one summer.
RELATED READING: Your Guide to Camping in Colorado
Ouray was founded in 1879 and is located along the San Juan River. The Ouray Hot Springs and Pool are situated along the river and are open year round and visitors can soak in the hot springs any time of day.
There is an adult only terrace at the Ouray Hot Springs, but it is also a fantastic family place with stellar alpine views of the San Juan Mountains.
Your crew will absolutely love trying all of the different Ouray Hot Springs geothermally heated mineral pools, especially following an awesome alpine hike or other outdoorsy adventure.
This Colorado hot springs is open year round and offers three large pools that range in temperature from 75 to 104 degrees, plus a lap pool and diving area.
Your kids will wear out the Wibit obstacle course, climbing wall, and zooming down the fantastic slides in the summer.
With toddlers and smaller kiddos, splash around and play for hours in large, warm shallow pools.
Address: 1220 Main St, Ouray, CO
more hot springs in Ouray
Wiesbaden Hot Springs and Vapor Caves
Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs
Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs
Hikes Near Ouray
Million Dollar Highway and Ouray dish out big view, old mining towns, waterfalls, and more via some amazing hikes - check out the Blue Lakes Trail.
PRO TIPS: If you’re camping in Ouray, the locker rooms at the Ouray Hot Springs offer hot showers. Save money by buying a 10 ticket punch pass if you are in the area for a few days and plan on visiting the hots springs pool more than one day.
BONUS in WINTER: The Ouray Ice Park is a human-made ice climbing park open ni winter in a spectacular natural gorge within walking distance of the town of Ouray. It is a free, public park that is home to more than 150 named ice and mixed climbs, spanning almost 2 miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge.
Blue Lakes Trail near Ouray
WHERE TO STAY IN OURAY
Besides camping at Ouray’s Amphitheater Campground overlooking the canyon, here are a couple of other lodging options:
Sweet cabins, bungalow, and mountain retreats await you all around Ouray
Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs
Ouray RV Park & Cabins - check out their deluxe riverfront cabins
Explore by RV
Find RV Rentals in Colorado for your Hot Springs Road Trip.
Glenwood Springs
A three hour jaunt from Ouray via Grand Junction and sitting neatly off I-70, you’ll find Glenwood Hot Springs Pool in historic Glenwood Springs.
Just an hour’s drive from Aspen or Vail, it’s a worthy day trip or overnight stay.
This Colorado hot springs prides itself in being the world's largest hot springs pool.
Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado is the world’s largest hot springs pools.
Families have been visiting Glenwood Hot Springs iconic mineral rich waters for well over a century. The lodge’s amenities are dynamite, the mountain views breathtaking, and the pedestrian bridge takes you downtown for restaurants, shopping, and history lessons.
Address: 415 E 6th St, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601
For something different, we really love the newer Iron Mountain Hot Springs, just off the banks of the Colorado River with stunning views, away from the Interstate. Their 16 mineral pools offer different temperatures ranging from 99 to 108 degrees.
Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs
Hikes Near Glenwood Springs
Don’t miss the hike to Hanging Lake — you’ll need to plan ahead for this heart-pumping incline to an untouchable blue green lake and a huge waterfall called Spouting Rock.
Also, Hiking in Aspen nearby is a Colorado must.
WHERE TO STAY IN GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge is worth the convenience of access to hot springs, but it wasn’t our favorite as it’s outdated and a bit boring.
We say buy day passes for hot springs and stay in a lovely cabin with fantastic views and restful amenities, like this mountain hideway between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. Now you’re close to hot springs, hiking, and snow skiing!
Steamboat Springs
A historic ski town with strong Winter Olympic heritage, Steamboat Springs has some of the best hot springs in Colorado. We’ll start with our favorite, for adults especially.
Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs
Strawberry Hot Springs near Steamboat Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat is quickly becoming one of my favorites in Colorado.
This historic site offers hot and cold spring pools, plus a heated changing cabin, rustic lodging and massages.
You must reserve your spot ahead of time online, but you will pay in person, in cash when you arrive.
After dark, we’ve been told swimsuits are optional.
Strawberry Park’s five pools ranging in temperatures. From the top pool (the hottest) to the cool water of the creek that flows through, there’s something just soothingly right for everyone.
Open year-round. Reserve your spot here.
How do I get there? 44200 Co Rd 36, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat
Old Town Hot Springs
The popular Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs includes eight hot spring-fed pools, waterslides, Wibit, fitness classes and even child care.
Close to the Lincoln and 3rd Street bus stop, these pools have been the heart of Steamboat Springs for over 100 years.
The Native American Ute Indians were the first to soak in Heart Spring. This all-natural mineral hot spring pumps perfect 102-103 degree water out of the ground and flows into all of the pools at this amazing complex.
The Old Town Hot Springs features the Heart Spring for ages 15+ only, a main pool, waterfall hot pool, smaller hot pool, water slide pool, kiddie pool, splash pool, and a lap pool.
Cabanas and the Wibit obstacle course are available in summer.
Address: 136 S Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO
Mineral Springs Walking Tour
For more fun and natural history, tour the Mineral Springs of the City of Steamboat Springs with this self-guided walking tour.
Hikes Near Steamboat Springs
Our favorite Colorado trails include the Zirkel Circle and Hahn’s Peak for those who like a challenge. Don’t miss Upper Fish Creek Falls, Mad Creek, Flash of Gold, and Windy Ridge.
The Mount Zirkel Loop is a challenging one, but a visit to Strawberry Park will be so rewarding!
Where to stay in Steamboat Springs
View the Top Vacation Rentals near Strawberry Hot Springs - you can’t beat this location!
For two or a small, young family, the tiny cabins at the Steamboat KOA are tough to beat. Ask for one at the back of the loop.
Indian Hot Springs
Hot Springs near Denver
For hot springs in Colorado near Denver, head to Idaho Springs.
Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs is a sweet spot for families to enjoy hot springs in Colorado, especially while exploring and hiking in nearby Breckenridge.
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway is also closeby and offers fantastic hikes in the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness.
Photo courtesy of Indian Hot Springs, a fantastic hot spring in Colorado near Denver
Open year round, the Mineral Water Swimming Pool whisks you away to a tropical setting where the pool’s temperature is anywhere from 90 -100 degrees F.
Reserve outdoor jacuzzis for majestic mountain views or aim for one of the indoor private baths filled with natural hot mineral water.
Adults Only: The gender specific Geo Thermal Caves are for ages 17+ and consist of walk-in hot tubs fed by naturally hot mineral water ranging in temps from 104° to 112°. Bathing suits are optional.
Address: 302 Soda Creek Rd, Idaho Springs, CO
Love to hike? Consider St. Mary’s Glacier, the marvelous Herman Gulch Trail, or tackling two challenging ourteeners at once with Grays and Torrey’s Peak.
WHERE TO STAY IN IDAHO SPRINGS
We love this Idaho Springs cabin with spectacular mountain views.
Lodging Accommodations at Indian Hot Springs include a choice of how you want to soak; additional options likely cost more.
Hike to the top of Grays and Torrey’s, one of the easier Colorado 14ers near Idaho Springs
Hot Springs near Rocky Mountain National Park
Those staying in Grand Lake at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park OR in the family-friendly destination of Granby will have fast access to the only hot springs resort in Grand County.
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort is just 12 minutes from Granby and only 30 minutes from Grand Lake and entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the top 10 most visited national parks in the USA. The park is a 2 hour drive from Denver, making it accessible for weekend warriors and tourists alike.
Spend a few hours in the park and you quickly see why thousands flock to this Colorado paradise. Dozens of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park are easily accessible off the main road.
Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Wildlife, waterfalls, lakes and more — we cover 10 of our favorite RMNP hikes and all the best tips for visiting here.
Where to Stay in RMNP
In addition to being near the national park, this lodge is perfect for a crowd and offers mountain views, hot tub, pool access, and nearby skiing and hiking.
Which Hot Springs in Colorado is Best?
Mount Princeton Hot Springs in summer is fantastic with kids
If you’re wondering which hot springs is right for you, it all depends on who you’re with and what you’re looking for.
If you only have time for soaking in one or two, here are our following top recommendations:
If you are a group of adults, we favor Strawberry Hot Springs in Steamboat, Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs, or Pagosa Springs in the San Juans. There may be kids there, but less of them based on our experiences.
If you have kids in tow, head to Mount Princeton, Glenwood Springs (especially in summer) or Ouray Hot Springs — although those have lovely adult only areas too.
All of these hot springs are near some of the best Colorado trails.
Fancy a hike to a natural undeveloped pool? Head to remote Radium Hot Springs off the Colorado River or plan a big trek to Conundrum — you can’t go wrong with either one. Just make a plan and be ready to share the solitude - sans swimsuits - with others.
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