Antero Hot Springs is one of the most unique soaking experiences in Colorado, offering not just hot mineral water but also the chance to stay overnight in charming rustic cabins. Each cabin comes with its own private outdoor soaking tub fed by geothermal water, giving guests total privacy and stunning mountain views. Located in the valley near the town of Buena Vista, in the heart of the Collegiate Peaks, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to combine relaxation with an immersive nature retreat.
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What Should You Know Before Going to Antero Hot Springs
Antero Hot Springs is different from most other hot springs in Colorado – it’s not a public bathhouse or a wild soaking spot. These are private springs connected to cabin rentals, meaning soaking is reserved exclusively for overnight guests. Each cabin comes with its own outdoor hot tub fed by natural geothermal water, ensuring complete privacy without crowds or sharing the space with strangers.
The water temperature averages around 100–104 °F (38–40 °C), sourced from geothermal energy. Guests can adjust the flow to regulate the soaking temperature to their preference. The cabins are rustic in design, with wood and stone features, providing a simple yet comfortable stay in the mountains.
Since this is a small property with limited capacity, it’s recommended to book well in advance, especially during summer and weekends. The springs are not open for day-use visitors without an overnight reservation.
How to Get to Antero Hot Springs
Antero Hot Springs is located in the valley near Buena Vista in central Colorado, right in the heart of the Collegiate Peaks. Access is straightforward, as the cabins sit just off Highway 285, the main road connecting the San Luis Valley with the rest of the state.
From Denver, the drive takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes south through Fairplay and Johnson Village. From Colorado Springs, it’s around 2 hours and 5 minutes, and from Salida only about 25 minutes. The road is paved and accessible with a regular vehicle, no special equipment required.
The property itself is set in a quiet forested area just a few minutes from downtown Buena Vista, where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and additional lodging. This makes Antero a perfect place to combine mountain wilderness with easy access to town amenities.
Best Time to Visit Antero Hot Springs
Antero Hot Springs can be visited year-round, as the private cabins with outdoor soaking tubs ensure both comfort and privacy no matter the season. Each time of year offers a unique atmosphere.
In spring and summer, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather and the chance to pair your soak with hiking, fishing, or exploring the surrounding Collegiate Peaks. Fall brings vibrant colors, with the Buena Vista area covered in golden and red foliage – perfect for a quiet, romantic escape.
Winter at Antero Hot Springs is particularly magical. The contrast of hot water against snowy mountain landscapes creates an unforgettable setting, and with your own private tub you can soak under the stars without sharing the space with anyone else. Access is possible during winter months, though travelers should be mindful of mountain driving conditions.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs in Antero Hot Springs
Antero Hot Springs is not a public bathhouse with day-use access. Soaking is reserved exclusively for guests who book one of the three cabins on-site. Day visitors without a reservation are not permitted.
As a small private property with very limited capacity, it is essential to book in advance, often weeks ahead during peak season and weekends. Exact check-in and check-out times are provided upon reservation confirmation.
Rates vary depending on the cabin and length of stay, and the most up-to-date pricing can be found directly on the official website.
Where to Stay Nearby Antero Hot Springs
The most authentic experience at Antero Hot Springs comes from staying directly in one of the three cabins on-site. The springs are not open to the public, so booking a cabin is the only way to enjoy the hot mineral water. Each cabin features its own private outdoor tub, with naturally heated water at about 100–104 °F (38–40 °C). Unlike public hot springs, here you’ll enjoy complete privacy, tranquility, and stunning mountain views, without sharing the space with other visitors.
If you only plan to spend a single day in the area and prefer to stay elsewhere, the nearby town of Buena Vista is the closest and most convenient option. Known for its charming cafés, shops, and breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks, Buena Vista is a great base for hiking, riverside walks, or enjoying local dining. Another option is Salida, located about 25 minutes away. Salida offers a historic downtown filled with galleries and coffee shops, along with an inviting small-town atmosphere and excellent opportunities for rafting and outdoor adventures.
Recommended Stays nearby Antero Hot Springs
Surf Hotel & Chateau – Buena Vista
A stylish hotel located directly by the Arkansas River, featuring elegant rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a terrace with panoramic mountain views. It combines direct access to nature with the comfort of being close to Buena Vista’s downtown – an ideal choice if you’re looking for both luxury and adventure.
Amigo Motor Lodge – Salida
A retro-inspired, fully renovated motel that blends unique design with modern comfort. Guests appreciate the cozy rooms, outdoor fire pits, and welcoming atmosphere. Located on the edge of Salida, it offers easy access to the town’s galleries and cafés as well as the Arkansas River and surrounding mountains.
For more lodging options in Buena Vista and Salida, explore the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Antero Hot Springs
Antero Hot Springs is set in one of Colorado’s most beautiful regions – the valley near Buena Vista, surrounded by the Collegiate Peaks. This makes it a perfect base for a wide range of experiences.
In Buena Vista itself, you can stroll through the charming downtown filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops, or take a walk along the Arkansas River, which flows through the town. The area is famous for outdoor adventures, from hiking scenic trails to mountain biking and fishing.
For those seeking more adrenaline, the Arkansas River is one of the top rafting and kayaking destinations in the United States. During summer, several local outfitters offer guided trips ranging from family-friendly floats to challenging whitewater runs for thrill-seekers.
If you’re looking for kayaking, one of the best choices is a half-day rafting trip in Browns Canyon. This stretch of the Arkansas River is considered one of Colorado’s premier rafting destinations. You’ll paddle through exciting rapids surrounded by dramatic granite cliffs and breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks. The tour starts in Buena Vista, just minutes from Antero Hot Springs, making it a perfect activity to pair with your hot springs visit.
Another great option is the larger town of Salida, about a 25-minute drive away. Salida boasts a vibrant historic downtown with art galleries, bars, and boutique shops. Cultural events and live music are common here, making it a fun place to spend an evening after soaking in the hot springs.
Other Springs Nearby Antero Hot Springs
If you’d like to explore more soaking opportunities near Antero, there are several great options within a short drive. In the valley west of Buena Vista, Cottonwood Hot Springs offers a rustic retreat with outdoor mineral pools and a peaceful mountain setting. Another popular choice is Princeton Hot Springs, which features large pools as well as natural soaking areas in the Arkansas River where hot water mixes with the current. And in the town of Salida, you’ll find Salida Hot Springs, home to the largest indoor geothermal pool in the United States, perfect for both families and serious swimmers.