Colorado’s Hot Springs Loop is an incredible experience that offers numerous hot springs with varying temperatures, mineral content, and features. The hot springs have been used for their therapeutic benefits for centuries by Native Americans and early settlers who believed that the hot mineral water had healing powers. Today, hot springs are a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a unique natural experience.
The benefits of hot springs are well-known, as the natural mineral water can soothe sore muscles, ease stress, and promote better sleep. The mineral content of each hot spring varies, providing visitors with different experiences, such as soaking in iron-rich water to improve circulation, or sulfuric water to detoxify the body. Additionally, many hot springs offer natural spa treatments like mud baths, mineral scrubs, and massages, all of which can improve overall wellness.
The hot springs loop offers something for everyone, from family-friendly resorts with multiple pools and water slides to secluded, adults-only hot springs for a romantic getaway. Some hot springs offer rustic, natural experiences where visitors can soak in undeveloped pools or rock-lined pools, while others feature modern amenities such as steam rooms, saunas, and private soaking tubs.
In addition to the hot springs, visitors can explore the surrounding areas, including hiking trails, local breweries, and charming small towns. The loop covers a significant part of Colorado, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, canyons, and rivers.
Visiting the Colorado’s Hot Springs Loop is a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Colorado while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of hot mineral water. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing soak or an adventurous experience, the hot springs loop has something to offer everyone. So, take some time off to recharge and enjoy the hot springs loop experience, and make sure to pack a camera to capture the memories of this unforgettable trip.
19 hot springs on the Colorado’s Hot Springs Loop, including a brief description, season, admission price, water temperature, and features:
1. Glenwood Hot Springs
Located in Glenwood Springs, this is the largest hot springs pool in the world. Open year-round, prices start at $25 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 90-104°F, and there’s also a spa, a diving pool, and a kiddie pool.
2. Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Located in Glenwood Springs, this is a smaller, more intimate hot springs experience. Open year-round, prices start at $30 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 98-108°F, and there are 16 mineral hot springs pools with varying temperatures.
3. Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves
Located in Glenwood Springs, this hot springs experience features natural mineral vapor caves that date back to the 1880s. Open year-round, prices start at $20 for adults. The caves are around 110°F, and there’s also a hot mineral soaking pool.
4. Avalanche Ranch
Located in Redstone, this is a rustic hot springs experience in the Rocky Mountains. Open year-round, prices start at $30 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 92-104°F, and there are three pools, including a hot tub and a saltwater pool.
5. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Located in Nathrop, this hot springs resort features natural geothermal pools with stunning mountain views. Open year-round, prices start at $30 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 70-120°F, and there’s also a spa and a creek-side hot springs.
6. Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa
Located in Buena Vista, this hot springs resort features natural hot springs pools and private baths. Open year-round, prices start at $16 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 94-110°F, and there’s also a sauna and a steam room.
7. Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa
Located in Moffat, this is a secluded hot springs experience with breathtaking mountain views. Open year-round, prices start at $20 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 98-108°F, and there’s also a sauna and a spa.
8. Valley View Hot Springs
Located in Villa Grove, this is a clothing-optional hot springs experience with a natural swimming pool and a creek. Open year-round, prices start at $20 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 85-105°F, and there’s also a sauna and a hot tub.
9. Conundrum Hot Springs
: Located near Aspen, this is a remote backcountry hot springs experience that requires a strenuous hike. Open in the summer months, free to access. Water temperature ranges from 95-105°F, and there’s also a waterfall and stunning mountain views.
10. Ouray Hot Springs Pool
: Located in Ouray, this is a historic hot springs pool that’s been around since the 1920s. Open year-round, prices start at $18 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 80-104°F, and there’s also a lap pool, diving area, and kiddie pool.
11. Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings
Located in Ouray, this hot springs resort features a soaking pool and a vapor cave. Open year-round, prices start at $20 for adults. Water temperature ranges from 104-108°F, and there’s also a spa and lodging.
12. Orvis Hot Springs
Located in Ridgway, this is a clothing-optional hot springs experience with natural outdoor pools and indoor tubs. Open year-round, prices start at $20 for adults. Water temperature ranges from
13. Desert Reef Hot Spring
Description: Desert Reef Hot Spring is located in Florence, Colorado. It is an ideal place for those who are looking for a quiet and relaxing soak in a natural setting. The hot spring is surrounded by stunning sandstone cliffs and is an oasis in the middle of the desert. Season: Year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months. Admission Price: $10 per person Temperature: 98-105°F Features: There are a variety of pools of varying temperatures, picnic tables, and changing rooms.
Colorado’s Hot Springs Loop is a bucket list destination for spa goers looking for a unique and relaxing experience. This loop consists of 19 hot springs spread out across the state, each offering its own unique experience. So, get ready to sit back, relax, and soak in the beauty of Colorado’s natural hot springs.
First stop, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, located in Glenwood Springs, is the largest hot springs pool in the world. This family-friendly resort features two water slides and a spa, offering massage and body treatments. You can spend a day here, soaking in the 104-degree water, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Next up, Iron Mountain Hot Springs, also located in Glenwood Springs, features 16 natural mineral hot springs, ranging in temperature from 98 to 108 degrees. The pools are nestled along the banks of the Colorado River, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the river. The spa here offers various massages and body treatments to help you relax even further.
Heading further west on the loop, you’ll come across Ouray Hot Springs Pool, located in the charming town of Ouray. This pool offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and is open year-round. Soak in the 80-105 degree waters while enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Just a short drive away is Orvis Hot Springs, located in Ridgway. This clothing-optional hot springs resort features seven soaking areas, ranging in temperature from 98 to 112 degrees. There’s even a sauna and a natural mud bath to enjoy. The resort is situated in a tranquil valley surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Next on the loop is Dunton Hot Springs, located in Dolores. This exclusive hot springs resort offers luxury accommodations in beautifully restored 19th-century cabins. The hot springs themselves are located in an open-air bathhouse, offering views of the stunning Colorado scenery. The resort also offers a spa with a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
Heading south, you’ll come across Pagosa Springs Resort & Spa, located in the charming town of Pagosa Springs. This resort offers the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, with water temperatures ranging from 98 to 115 degrees. The resort also features a full-service spa with a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
The final stop on the loop is Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located in Steamboat Springs. This rustic hot springs resort features several pools, ranging in temperature from 101 to 107 degrees. The pools are surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. The resort also offers a range of massage and body treatments, as well as lodging options.
When planning your trip, keep in mind that the best time to visit the Colorado Hot Springs Loop is during the fall or winter, when the weather is cooler and the hot springs are at their most inviting. Many of the hot springs offer lodging options, from luxury cabins to rustic camping, so be sure to check ahead and make reservations if needed.
In conclusion, Colorado’s Hot Springs Loop is a must-visit destination for spa goers looking to relax and unwind in a stunning natural setting. With 19 hot springs to choose from, you can customize your experience to fit your needs, whether that’s a family-friendly resort or a clothing-optional retreat. So, pack your bags, grab your swimsuit, and get ready to soak up the beauty of Colorado’s hot springs.
