Hot Springs In Colorado Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Colorado is a state known for its natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting its hot springs. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Colorado’s hot springs have something to offer. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the top hot springs in Colorado.
Top Attractions
When it comes to hot springs in Colorado, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the top attractions include the Glenwood Hot Springs, which is the largest hot springs pool in the world, and the Strawberry Hot Springs, which is nestled in a picturesque forest setting. Other popular options include the Ouray Hot Springs, the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, and the Mount Princeton Hot Springs.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience, there are plenty of hidden gem hot springs in Colorado. One of the best options is the Conundrum Hot Springs, which requires a 8.5-mile hike to reach but offers breathtaking mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere. The Rainbow Hot Springs and the Radium Hot Springs are also worth checking out.
Food Scene
After a day of soaking in hot springs, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, Colorado has a thriving food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Some of the top restaurants near hot springs include The Pullman in Glenwood Springs, the Ore House in Durango, and the Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling can be expensive, but there are ways to save money on your hot springs adventure in Colorado. One of the best tips is to visit during the off-season, which is typically in the fall and spring. You can also save money by camping instead of staying in a hotel, cooking your own meals instead of eating out, and opting for free activities like hiking and sightseeing.
Outdoor Adventures
Colorado is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and hot springs are no exception. Many hot springs are located in scenic areas that offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Some of the top adventures include hiking to the hot springs, snowshoeing in the winter, and white-water rafting in the nearby rivers.
Historical Landmarks
Colorado has a rich history, and there are plenty of hot springs that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. The Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings in Ouray was built in the 1800s and is still in operation today. The hot springs in Glenwood Springs were frequented by the Ute Native Americans before becoming a popular tourist attraction. Other historical hot springs include the Indian Hot Springs and the Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa.
Family-Friendly Activities
Hot springs are a great family-friendly activity, and Colorado has plenty of options that cater to all ages. The Glenwood Hot Springs offers a kiddie pool and waterslide, while the Iron Mountain Hot Springs has a freshwater family pool. The Mount Princeton Hot Springs has a water slide and a creek for kids to play in.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path hot springs experience, Colorado has plenty to offer. The Valley View Hot Springs is a clothing-optional hot springs that features a geodesic dome and a sauna. The Penny Hot Springs is a natural hot springs located along the Crystal River that is free to the public. The Dunton Hot Springs is a luxury resort that features restored 19th-century cabins and a natural hot springs.
Natural Wonders
Many of Colorado’s hot springs are located in stunning natural settings that offer breathtaking views and a sense of serenity. The Strawberry Hot Springs is located in a forested valley and features multiple pools with varying temperatures. The Cottonwood Hot Springs is located at the base of the Collegiate Peaks and offers stunning mountain views. The Pagosa Hot Springs are located in the San Juan River Valley and offer views of the surrounding mountains.
Vibrant Nightlife
After a relaxing soak in the hot springs, you might be in the mood for some nightlife. Colorado has plenty of options to choose from, including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Some of the top options include the Belly Up in Aspen, the Fox Theatre in Boulder, and the Ogden Theatre in Denver.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of local culture and cuisine, Colorado’s hot springs towns have plenty of farmers’ markets and artisanal shops to explore. The Durango Farmers Market features local produce, crafts, and live music. The Glenwood Springs Downtown Market features local vendors and food trucks. The Steamboat Springs Farmers Market features fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Colorado is known for its mountains, but it also has some great beaches to explore. The Colorado River runs through several hot springs towns and offers plenty of opportunities for water activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is also worth a visit and offers the unique experience of sandboarding and sledding.
Cultural Immersion
Colorado has a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of hot springs that offer a glimpse into this world. The Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves in Glenwood Springs offers a unique experience of a natural vapor cave that was used by the Ute Native Americans for healing. The Iron Mountain Hot Springs features sculptures and artwork by local artists. The Ouray Hot Springs features a mural by local artist Armando Silva.
Art and Music Scene
Colorado has a thriving art and music scene, and there are plenty of hot springs towns that offer live music, art galleries, and festivals. The Salida Art Walk is a popular event that features local artists and galleries. The Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a world-renowned music festival that takes place in Telluride. The Carbondale Mountain Fair is a fun event that features live music, food, and crafts.
Walking Tours
Many hot springs towns offer walking tours that provide a glimpse into the town’s history and culture. The Glenwood Springs Historical Walking Tour takes you on a journey through the town’s history and landmarks. The Ouray Historical Walking Tour takes you on a journey through the town’s mining history. The Pagosa Springs Historic Walking Tour takes you on a journey through the town’s hot springs history.
Architectural Marvels
Colorado is home to some stunning architectural marvels, and there are hot springs that offer a glimpse into this world. The Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge is a historic hotel that features Spanish-style architecture and a stunning view of the mountains. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool features a modern design that blends in with the surrounding landscape. The Iron Mountain Hot Springs features a contemporary design that offers panoramic views of the Colorado River.
Historical Sites
Colorado has a rich mining history, and there are plenty of hot springs that offer a glimpse into this world. The Orvis Hot Springs is located on the site of an old mining camp and features restored cabins from the 1800s. The Wagon Wheel Hot Springs is located on the site of an old stagecoach stop and features rustic cabins and a historic barn. The Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs is located in a historic building that was once a hospital.
Biking Routes
Colorado is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, and there are plenty of hot springs that offer access to scenic biking routes. The Glenwood Canyon Bike Trail is a popular route that offers stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding mountains. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs is located along the Yampa River Core Trail, which offers a scenic route through Steamboat Springs. The Pagosa Hot Springs is located near the San Juan River Trail, which offers a scenic bike ride through the San Juan Mountains.
Wellness Retreats
Hot springs are known for their healing properties, and there are many hot springs that offer a wellness retreat experience. The Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa is a luxury resort that features natural mineral springs and a spa. The Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa is a peaceful retreat that offers yoga classes and massage therapy. The Dunton Hot Springs is a luxury resort that features a natural hot springs and a wellness center.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Colorado has plenty of options to choose from. The Mount Princeton Hot Springs offers white-water rafting trips on the Arkansas River. The Glenwood Canyon Resort offers ziplining and high ropes courses. The Strawberry Hot Springs offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
Overall, Colorado’s hot springs offer something for everyone, from relaxing soaks in mineral-rich waters to adrenaline-pumping adventures. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect hot springs adventure in Colorado.