17+ Best Hot Springs in Colorado You Must Visit

It’s no secret that Colorado is home to some of the most gorgeous landscapes and mountain scenery in the world. Hiking to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains or skiing at one of Colorado’s world famous ski resorts is no easy feat. You deserve to relax in a hot tub after a full day of adventure, and you can do so without even leaving the mountains by visiting one of Colorado’s many hot spring pools.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a healthy mix of both, you’re guaranteed to find a pool to suit your needs on this list. Keep reading to learn about the best hot springs in Colorado!

17+ Best Hot Springs in Colorado You Must Visit
Courtesy of Glenwood Hot Springs

BEST HOT SPRINGS IN GLENWOOD SPRINGS

Located a little less than 3 hours from Denver, Glenwood Springs offers some great hot springs.

IRON MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS

Iron Mountain Hot Springs is a natural hot spring pool overlooking the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. It was created as a therapeutic space to relax and rejuvenate. It features 16 unique soaking pools, including a heart-shaped pool, an infinity pool, and one with a waterfall. All of the pools contain mineral waters that are meant to relax your muscles and let you leave feeling healthy, happy, and relaxed.

Reservations are required to visit the hot springs and each guest can stay for 2.5 hours.

  • Accommodations: None on site, but hotels in the area offer discounts to the hot springs.
  • Ages: All ages are allowed in the family pool; children between 5-13 are allowed in the hot springs pools with adult supervision.
  • Concessions: Poolside cafe offers dine-in and grab-and-go.

Read More: 9+ Sensational Things To Do in Glenwood Springs

YAMPAH  SPA & VAPOR CAVES

A visit to Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is one of the most unique and relaxing experiences you could ever have. Vapor caves are essentially hot springs located inside of a cave, originally used by the Ute Indians to heal the body and spirit by slowly soothing the aches and pains away. The minerals used in the baths, along with the wide range of spa treatments available, well succeed their goal of having you leave feeling physically and mentally healed and rejuvenated.

Children are not allowed at the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, so spend a relaxing weekend away for some “me time” or alone time with a partner!

  • Accommodations: Not available on site, but there are hotels nearby.
  • Ages: Children are not allowed.
  • Passes: Passes are available for 2 hours, full day, 2 days, 10 days, or monthly.

GLENWOOD HOT SPRINGS RESORT

The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is unique, as it is the world’s largest hot springs pool! It’s extremely easy to get to, as it’s located right off Highway 70 near downtown, centrally located between Aspen and Vail. You can spend the day soaking in the hot springs after a hike around town or a visit to the slopes, or spend an entire weekend here soaking in the pool, getting pampered in the spa, and admiring the views.

One of the best parts of the Glenwood Hot Springs is the packages that they have available. You can either use their pools or services for the day, book a day of relaxation, or spend an entire weekend adventuring around the mountains. Check out their ski swim stay package for a great deal on both a resort stay and free lift tickets!

  • Accommodations: Their lodge offers standard rooms, premium rooms, and suites.
  • Ages: Kids are permitted to use the hot springs pool any time it’s open, and they can enjoy the 2 water slides on site.
  • Concessions: Snack bar and grill on site. You’re also within walking distance of downtown eateries.
  • Passes: Day passes, season passes, and annual passes are available.

BEST HOT SPRINGS IN COLORADO WITHIN 2 HOURS OF DENVER

INDIAN HOT SPRINGS (IDAHO SPRINGS)

Indian Hot Springs is the closest hot spring to Denver, so it’s perfect if you only have a day or afternoon available for a hot springs visit. I generally stop here on my way back to Denver after a day on the slopes for a mud mask and a fun way to relax my aching muscles.

Indian Hot Springs features two pools: a heated indoor pool with a tropical ambiance, and an outdoor cave section. There are also private baths available for rent. Children are permitted in the indoor pool, but the outdoor caves are only for those 16 and up.

  • Distance from Denver: 45 minutes
  • Accommodations: Campsites, cabins and lodge rooms are available.
  • Ages: Children are permitted in the indoor pool; Outdoor Caves are 16+
  • Concessions: Snacks

SUNWATER SPA (MANITOU SPRINGS)

SunWater Spa is a relaxing spa located in Manitou Springs (near Colorado Springs) featuring picturesque cedar soaking tubs, saunas, and regular spa treatments. It is located near many main attractions such as Pike’s Peak, but offers a relaxing getaway away from all the hustle and bustle.

Soak in a tub, take a yoga class, book a facial, or get a full body massage. No matter what you do here, you’re guaranteed to feel relaxed and rejuvenated when you leave.

  • Distance from Denver: 1.75 hours
  • Accommodations: None available on site; campsites, cabins, hotels nearby.
  • Ages: Children of any age can soak in the mineral baths.
  • Concessions: Food truck on site.

HOT SULPHUR SPRINGS RESORT (HOT SULPHUR SPRINGS)

Hot Sulphur Springs Resort is located just west of Rocky Mountain National Park, about 2 hours away from Denver past Winter Park and Fraser, Colorado. It’s an excellent place to relax after a long day on the slopes and stay overnight if you’re planning on skiing or hiking in that area.

Sulphur Springs has 21 hot spring pools to enjoy. Children under 12 are able to use any of the 4 lower pools and 2 of the indoor pools.

  • Distance from Denver: 2 hours
  • Accommodations: Lodging available and come with 2 all-day hot springs passes.
  • Ages: Children are allowed in the 4 lower pools and 2 of the indoor pools.
  • Concessions: Food is available onsite.

DESERT REEF HOT SPRINGS (FLORENCE)

Desert Reef Hot Springs in Florence, Colorado, first came to be in 1986 as a sort of hidden, off-the-beaten-path hot springs. After going through a complete renovation in 2021, this amazing spot re-opened in 2022 with new ownership, but the same vision. That vision? For visitors to be able to get away from it all, relax, and find inspiration in the surrounding mountains, hot springs, and star-filled skies.

This is not the type of hot springs that will be overcrowded. This beautiful outdoor space requires reservations, in order to make sure every guest is able to have an amazing experience.

You’ll find a main pool here, along with four others, and they are kept at certain temperatures depending on the season — 100 degrees in the winter, and lower in the summertime. Private pool rentals are also available. If you’d like to stay here, they offer four vintage Airstreams with private pools as well, with plans to offer tiny home rentals in the future.

  • Distance from Denver: 1.5 hours
  • Ages: 18+
  • Accommodations: Four vintage Airstreams with private pools, as well as tiny homes.
  • Concessions: Some snacks available onsite. It’s currently BYOB (two per person) until they secure their liquor license (as of January 2024).

BEST HOT SPRINGS IN STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

Steamboat Springs is one of the best winter destinations in the country because it has everything you need for a magical winter wonderland – a great ski area, the best hot springs, and hundreds of miles of untouched backcountry land where you can enjoy snowmobiling or cross country skiing. 

STRAWBERRY PARK NATURAL HOT SPRINGS

Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the best hot springs in Colorado! The pools here are fed from natural springs located in the mountains and are well-maintained. You’ll feel like you’re having a wild hot springs experience in the middle of the mountains while swimming in crystal clear water.

Day use guests can reserve a 2-hour pool window, and overnight guests automatically have access from check-in to check-out. Be advised that clothing is optional after dark until opening the following day, so no minors are permitted to enter after sundown.

Local tip: Traction laws are in place from Nov. 1 to May 1, so four wheel drive/all-wheel drive with snow tires is required, otherwise you must have snow chains. If you do not have any of these things accessible to you, there is a shuttle you can take to Strawberry Park Hot Springs from downtown Steamboat Springs in the Steamboat Transit Center.

  • Distance from Denver: 3 hours
  • Accommodations: They offer tent sites, cabins, covered wagons, and even a train caboose.
  • Ages: Kids are welcome during the day, but not permitted after dark.
  • Concessions: None onsite. You may bring food or drink to enjoy in the designated picnic area. No alcohol allowed.

Read More: 13 Awesome Things To Do in Steamboat Springs for Outdoor Enthusiasts

OLD TOWN HOT SPRINGS

Old Town Hot Springs is located right in downtown Steamboat Springs, so it’s the perfect place to go for a dip after a long hike. Old Town Hot Springs is not just a hot springs pool, it’s a full water park/fitness center. It features a 230-foot water slide, an aquatic climbing wall, natural hot spring soaking pools, a lap pool, gym, childcare, and more.

There are different pricing options for those visiting and those who live in Routt and Moffet counties. If you are a resident of these counties and enjoy fitness, it would be well worth it to get a monthly, seasonal, or annual pass, as you not only get access to the hot spring pools, but also gym access and access to over 30 fitness classes each month. 

  • Distance from Denver: 3 hours
  • Accommodations: None available onsite, but plenty nearby.
  • Ages: Ages 15+ are permitted in the hot springs pools. Childcare is available for young kids.
  • Concessions: Food is available onsite. Outside food is also permitted, but no alcohol.
  • Passes: Monthly, seasonal, and annual passes are available.

BEST HOT SPRINGS IN CENTRAL COLORADO

MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT (NATHROP)

If you’re looking for adventure, you must visit Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort! This resort is open year round, everyday. It is so fun and has nearly every amenity you could need for the family, so you could spend an entire week here and never get bored. There are many pools to choose from, hot spring spas, restaurants on site, and tours available. Private hot springs rentals are also available.

Not only does Mount Princeton have some of the best hot springs, the property is surrounded by mostly public lands, so there is plenty to do both in the resort and nearby. In the summer, spend your days hiking, playing tennis, and enjoying the outdoor mineral pools and 400-foot water slide. In the winter, rent some snowshoes or take a dog sled tour. Try every activity! It’s all included in your stay, so take advantage and live your best Colorado life at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort.

For a fun day trip, visit the nearby towns of Salida Colorado or Buena Vista.

  • Distance from Denver: 2.5 hours
  • Accommodations: You’ll find lodges, estates, cabins, and more.
  • Ages: All ages welcome until 5pm. Ages 16+ can use the Relaxation Pool and Cascades Hot Springs Pool until 9pm.
  • Concessions: You’ll find concessions and restaurants onsite.
  • Passes: Locals Punch Pass gives you 20 visits and lasts a year. Available to local residents only.

AVALANCHE RANCH HOT SPRINGS (REDSTONE)

Redstone is a tiny little mountain town located between Glenwood Springs and Aspen, best known for its resort destination, Avalanche Ranch. Avalanche Ranch is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains at the base of the Crystal River. Surprisingly, not many tourists know it exists, so it’s the ultimate quiet cabin getaway in the mountains.

Avalanche Ranch features 3 Colorado natural hot springs pools in a tiered layout. You’ll find the hot springs here are family friendly, and really fun. If you stay in a cabin here, your hot springs passes are included.

  • Distance from Denver: A little over 3 hours
  • Accommodations: Cabins are available and allow guests 24/7 access to the pools.
  • Ages: Children are welcome any time with adult supervision.

COTTONWOOD HOT SPRINGS INN & SPA (BUENA VISTA)

When visiting Buena Vista, Colorado in the summer, the best thing to do is drive Cottonwood Pass (generally open May-November) and end up at the Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn and Spa right at the end.

The Cottonwood Hot Springs features natural stone hot springs soaking tubs, a dry sauna, a spa, camping, RV sites, and other unique accommodations. Admission to the hot springs pools and dry sauna are available with your pass. Children are permitted to use the facilities under adult supervision, but those under 16 must leave after dark.

  • Distance from Denver: 2.5 hours
  • Accommodations: Overnight accommodations are available, but hot springs passes are not included with all reservations.
  • Ages: Children are allowed with adult supervision; kids under 16 must leave after dark.
  • Concessions: Snacks and drinks are available for purchase and outside food and drinks are allowed. Alcohol is not permitted.

Read More: 9 Very Best Things To Do in Buena Vista

JOYFUL JOURNEY HOT SPRINGS SPA (MOFFAT)

Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa, located in the San Luis Valley, offers three hot springs pools and two jacuzzi hot tubs. All of the pools at Joyful Journey are filled with the natural, mineral-rich, geothermically-heated water that’s pulled from beneath the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. All the pools are drained and cleaned nightly.

The View Pool is super special, because of the spectacular views of the mountains. This pool is also a quiet pool, and visitors are asked to keep their voices at a whisper while soaking here. If you’re looking for more privacy, Joyful Journey offers indoor, private soaking pools any day of the week.

  • Distance from Denver: 3 hours
  • Accommodations: You’ll find a lodge, 2-bedroom home, yurts, tipis, and RV and campsites.
  • Ages: No children under the age of 5.
  • Concessions: Meals are included for those staying onsite.

BEST HOT SPRINGS IN SOUTHERN COLORADO

17+ Best Hot Springs in Colorado You Must Visit
Courtesy of Durango Hot Springs Resort

DURANGO HOT SPRINGS RESORT (DURANGO)

Durango Hot Springs Resort and Spa is a luxury resort and spa located in southwest Colorado in Durango that has undergone some major upgrades in recent years.

At Durango Hot Springs Resort and Spa, you’ll find 32 outdoor mineral hot springs pools — 19 of which are family-friendly, in addition to 13 adult pools.

They’ve also worked hard in recent years to make sure relaxation and wellness is accessible to all. There are now 12 ADA-accessible thermal mineral pools with transfer walls, allowing guests to leave a mobility device, transfer onto the wall, and then into a pool.

This resort uses a unique blend of minerals in their water meant to oxygenate and soothe the body, even after a full vacation packed with adventure in the mountains.

  • Distance from Denver: 6.5 hours
  • Ages: 19 of the hot springs pools are open to all ages.
  • Concessions: Concessions and restaurants onsite for both overnight guests and day pass users.
  • Passes: Daily passes, punch cards, and frequency cards are available.

ORVIS HOT SPRINGS (RIDGEWAY)

The Orvis Hot Springs is a natural hot springs pool located in southwest Colorado near Ouray and Telluride. Its water has seven naturally-occurring minerals and is never treated, in order to maintain the natural, relaxing element of the hot springs. It features 10 hot spring pools (some indoor, some outdoor) for anyone ages 4 and up to relax in.

Stop by the Orvis Hot Springs after a full day of adventure at nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park or the majestic San Juan Mountains. Your muscles will definitely thank you!

If you have children, be aware that the outdoor pools at the Orvis Hot Springs are clothing-optional at all times, and many people love to partake in this.

  • Distance from Denver: 5.5 hours
  • Accommodations: Camping and RV sites, along with a few cabins with a community kitchen.
  • Ages: All ages welcome, kids must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

OURAY HOT SPRINGS (OURAY)

Ouray Hot Springs is located right in the heart of the San Juan Mountains in the small town of Ouray, Colorado, otherwise nicknamed “The Switzerland of America.” Ouray itself is an adventure lover’s paradise. After visiting some of the most incredible mountain destinations on planet earth, I can confidently say that the San Juans are full of some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. A soak at the hot springs after a hike is the perfect day.

The Ouray Hot Springs Pool consists of 3 geothermally heated pools and two indoor pools. It is also a fitness center, so you can swim laps or take fitness classes at the indoor pool. Outside, take a soak in a relaxing tub and admire the majesty that surrounds you.

  • Distance from Denver: 5.75 hours
  • Accommodations: Not onsite, but there are campsites and hotels nearby.
  • Ages: Most of the pools are family-friendly, but there is an adult-only option too.
  • Concessions: Yes
  • Passes: Memberships are available for purchase.

THE SPRINGS RESORT & SPA (PAGOSA SPRINGS)

The Springs Resort and Spa is a relaxing, luxury hydrothermal spa located off the banks of the San Juan River in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. Boasting the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, there are over 25 completely unique hot spring pools for both overnight guests a day visitors to enjoy. You’ll also find an incredible spa and wellness studio here.

  • Distance from Denver: 5.25 hours
  • Accommodations: Overnight accommodations are available onsite and include access to the pools. Swim-Ski packages are also available.
  • Ages: All ages are welcome.
  • Concessions: Snacks and restaurants are onsite for both day pass and overnight guests.

Read More: 23 Best Things To Do in Pagosa Springs, Colorado

DUNTON HOT SPRINGS (DOLORES)

Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores, Colorado, is a small and exclusive hot springs resort found set in a beautiful alpine valley, just over the mountain from Telluride. This restored 1880s ghost town is the perfect place for a mountain escape.

Stay in one of their authentic and beautifully restored log cabins, some of which were built by miners many years ago. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on site, and in the summer, you can enjoy horseback riding, fly fishing, mountain biking, and a lot more. This resort is a one-stop shop.

There are five ways to enjoy the hot springs here, but they’re only open to those who stay on-site. Test out the waters inside a restored 19th century bathhouse, under the stars, in the pool outside the bathhouse, in the pool behind the Dunton Store cabin, or inside Well House cabin.

  • Distance from Denver: A little under 8 hours
  • Ages: Perfect for adults.
  • Accommodations: 13 beautifully appointed log cabins. You must stay on property to use the hot springs.
  • Concessions: Meals are included with your stay.

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