Known for its dramatic landscape and diverse topography that ranges from towering red rock formations to sprawling prairie grasslands, Colorado is a dream destination for adrenaline seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
What many visitors don't realize is that much of Colorado's breathtaking terrain was shaped by ancient volcanic activity. The remaining rocks from historic eruptions, along with current geothermal processes beneath the mountains, now heat some of the finest hot springs in the country.
Whether you're craving a tranquil mountain retreat or looking to soak your tired muscles after a rugged hike, this guide covers everything you need to know about hot springs in Colorado—including the best spots to relax and how to get the most out of your visit.
Colorado Hot Springs Map
Colorado Hot Spring Regions
Colorado's hot springs are found within the mountainous terrains of the state's western portion and only occur as far east as Colorado Springs. Still, several fantastic springs are scattered throughout this confined area of the state and are focused in three specific regions, each offering unique experiences.
Select a region below to explore the best soaking spots.
Hot Springs in Southwestern Colorado
Southwestern Colorado features a mix of luxurious resorts, family-friendly community pools, and remote primitive springs nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. It's the perfect region for both adventure and relaxation.
| Hot Spring Name | Type | Location | Opening Hours | Cost & Permits | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sand Dunes Pool | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Regular: 10:00am–10:00pm; Winter: 1:00pm–8:00pm; closed Thursdays | Adults $18, Children $12; Greenhouse +$7; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Sand Dunes Recreation. |
| The Springs Resort | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Public: 9:00am–10:00pm; Hotel guests: 24/7 access | Adults $59/day; memberships available; no permits required | Get all the essential information on The Springs Resort & Spa. |
| Durango Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Daily: 9:00am–10:00pm; reservations required | Adults $39–$49; Children $19–$24; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa. |
| Dunton Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; check-in 3:00 PM, check-out 11:00 AM | All-inclusive from $880/night; no day passes; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Dunton Hot Springs. |
| Orvis Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Daily: 9:00am–9:00pm; guests: 24/7 access | Adults $28; Children $12; camping from $49/night; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Orvis Hot Springs. |
| Pinkerton Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Open year-round | Free to access; swimming not available; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Pinkerton Hot Springs. |
| Rainbow Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; best from summer to mid-fall | Free to access; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Rainbow Hot Springs. |
| Piedra River Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; best in spring, summer, and fall | Free to access; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Piedra River Hot Springs. |
| Splashland Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Late spring to early fall; hours vary | Adults $11, Youth $6, Seniors $8; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Splashland Hot Springs. |
| Ouray Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Public: 11:00am–8:00pm; Member: 10:00am–11:00am | Adults $26, Youth $16, Seniors $18; under 4 & 75+ free; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Ouray Hot Springs Pool. |
Hot Springs in Central Colorado
Central Colorado offers a diverse collection of hot springs—from peaceful spa resorts and family-friendly pools to exclusive private cabins with geothermal tubs. Nestled between mountain valleys and historic towns, these springs offer rest and recharge in the heart of the Rockies.
| Hot Spring Name | Type | Location | Opening Hours | Cost & Permits | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joyful Journey Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Sun–Wed: 9:30 AM–9:50 PM; Thu–Sat: 9:30 AM–8:00 PM | Adults $18; Locals/Seniors/Children $15; $12 Tuesdays; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa. |
| Princeton Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Daily: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM; Infinity Pool Fri–Sun; Slide Memorial Day–Labor Day | Weekdays: Adults $30, Children/Seniors $25; Weekends: Adults $35, Children/Seniors $30; Slide +$7; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. |
| Deer Valley Ranch Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; Daily: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM | Included with lodging; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Deer Valley Ranch. |
| Cottonwood Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Mon–Thu: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM; Weekends: 8:00 AM–Midnight | Weekdays: Adults $30, Children $24; Weekends: Adults $34, Children $30; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa. |
| Valley View Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; reservations required | Day Pass: $17; Overnight: $34; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Valley View Hot Springs. |
| Salida Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Varied by day; generally 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Adults $14, Seniors/Youth $12, Children under 6 free; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center. |
| Desert Reef Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Mon, Wed, Thu–Sun: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM; Tue: overnight guests only | Weekday Soaks $25; Weekend Soaks $35; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Desert Reef Hot Springs. |
| Dakota Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Tue–Sun: Two sessions daily; closed Mondays | $20 per person per session; camping $30/night (includes 2); no permits required | Get all the essential information on Dakota Hot Springs. |
| Antero Hot Springs | Private | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; check-in: 3:30 PM, check-out: 10:30 AM | From $385/night for 2 guests; +$40/additional guest; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Antero Hot Springs Cabins. |
| Treehouse Hot Springs | Private | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; check-in: 4:00 PM, check-out: 11:00 AM | Rates vary; contact for details; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Treehouse Hot Springs. |
| Aqua Hot Spring | Private | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; flexible check-in/out | Rates vary; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Aqua Hot Springs. |
| Merrifield Homestead Cabins & Hot Springs | Private | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; times vary by cabin | Holloway: $450–$550/night; Merrifield: $600–$700/night; +cleaning & pets; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Merrifield Homestead Cabins. |
Hot Springs in Northwestern Colorado
Northwestern Colorado boasts an eclectic mix of hot springs ranging from luxurious resorts to primitive wilderness pools. Whether you're soaking beneath alpine peaks or relaxing in a historic bathhouse, this region offers something for every type of traveler.
| Hot Spring Name | Type | Location | Opening Hours | Cost & Permits | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avalanche Ranch | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Lodging 24/7; Visitors by 4-hr slots | $34 pp; rentals $2; lodging includes access; reservations required | Get all the essential information on Avalanche Ranch Cabins & Hot Springs. |
| Glenwood Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | $34–$50 (Adults/Teens), $24–$31 (Children) | Get all the essential information on Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. |
| Indian Hot Springs | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Mon–Thu: 9–10PM; Fri–Sun: 8–11PM | Pools $30–$40; Baths $50–$120/hr; Tubs $80–$170 | Get all the essential information on Indian Hot Springs. |
| Hot Sulphur Springs Resort | Resort | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | 8:00 AM – 9:45 PM (last entry 9:15 PM) | $30 (Adults), $16 (Children), $23 (Seniors) | Get all the essential information on Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa. |
| Conundrum Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Year-round; best July–Sept | Free; overnight permit ~$10–$12 | Get all the essential information on Conundrum Hot Springs. |
| Penny Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Accessible 24/7, year-round | Free; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Penny Hot Springs. |
| South Canyon Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Daylight hours, year-round | Free; no permits required | Get all the essential information on South Canyon Hot Springs. |
| Radium Hot Springs | Primitive | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Best late spring to early fall | Free; no permits required | Get all the essential information on Radium Hot Springs. |
| Yampah Vapor Caves | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | $20 for 2 hrs; spa services extra | Get all the essential information on Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves. |
| Iron Mountain Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM; last soak at 7 PM | $44–$69 (3-hr); All-Day: $100–$150 | Get all the essential information on Iron Mountain Hot Springs. |
| Eldorado Springs Pool | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Mem. Day – Labor Day) | $25 (Adults), $15 (Children & Seniors) | Get all the essential information on Eldorado Springs Resort. |
| Old Town Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Mon–Fri: 6–9PM; Sat–Sun: 7–9PM | $29 (Adults), $23 (Youth), Slide $7 | Get all the essential information on Old Town Hot Springs. |
| Juniper Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Currently closed | Not applicable | Juniper Hot Springs is currently closed to the public. |
| Strawberry Park Hot Springs | Community | Check Colorado Hot Springs Map | Sun–Thu: 10–10; Fri–Sat: 10–Midnight | $20 per 2-hr reservation; cash only | Get all the essential information on Strawberry Park Hot Springs. |
Types of Colorado Hot Springs
Colorado’s hot springs fall into four categories: natural, community, resort, and private. Each offers a distinct experience—from untouched wilderness pools to luxurious retreats.
Select a type below to learn more about the different soaking experiences.
Natural Hot Springs in Colorado
Natural hot springs are the most authentic way to experience Colorado’s geothermal treasures. Typically untouched and nestled deep in the wilderness, they often require a hike or off-road access.
They are usually free to enter and offer a serene, secluded atmosphere. While beautiful, they are unregulated—so always test temperatures and be mindful of local safety warnings before entering.
Community Hot Springs in Colorado
Found mainly in small mountain towns, community hot springs offer a balance between affordability and comfort. These public pools are locally run and provide basic amenities like changing rooms, showers, and clean soaking areas.
They’re ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed soak without the rugged adventure of hiking to a natural spring. Some notable community pools include Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Salida Hot Springs.
Hot Spring Resorts in Colorado
Colorado’s hot spring resorts offer luxurious, all-inclusive experiences complete with spa treatments, lodging, and fine dining. They are perfect for those looking to relax in style and comfort.
While more expensive than other options, resorts provide well-maintained soaking areas, full-service amenities, and often unforgettable mountain views. Top spots include Mount Princeton Hot Springs and Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
Explore All Colorado Hot Springs
Sand Dunes Pool
Type: Resort
Opening Hours: Mar–Nov 10 AM–10 PM; Dec–Feb 1 PM–8 PM; Thu closed
More InfoRainbow Hot Springs
Type: Primitive
Opening Hours: Accessible year-round; best summer–mid fall
More InfoPiedra River Hot Springs
Type: Primitive
Opening Hours: Accessible year-round; best spring–fall
More InfoJoyful Journey Hot Springs
Type: Resort
Opening Hours: Sun–Wed 9:30 AM–9:50 PM; Thu–Sat 9:30 AM–8 PM
More InfoCottonwood Hot Springs
Type: Community
Opening Hours: Mon–Thu 8 AM–10 PM; Weekends/Holidays 8 AM–Midnight
More InfoDesert Reef Hot Springs
Type: Community
Opening Hours: Mon 10 AM–10 PM; Tue closed; Wed 4–10 PM; Thu–Sun 10 AM–10 PM
More InfoDakota Hot Springs
Type: Community
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun two sessions: 10–3:15 & 4–9:15; Mon closed
More InfoAntero Hot Springs
Type: Private
Opening Hours: Year-round; check-in 3:30 PM; check-out 10:30 AM
More InfoTreehouse Hot Springs
Type: Private
Opening Hours: Year-round; check-in 4 PM; check-out 11 AM
More InfoMerrifield Homestead Cabins & Hot Springs
Type: Private
Opening Hours: Year-round; check-in/out vary by cabin
More InfoAvalanche Ranch
Type: Resort
Opening Hours: Lodging 24/7 access; day visitors by reservation (4-hr slots)
More InfoHot Sulphur Springs Resort
Type: Resort
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM–9:45 PM (last entry 9:15 PM)
More InfoConundrum Hot Springs
Type: Primitive
Opening Hours: Year-round access; best Jul–Sep; overnight permit needed
More InfoIron Mountain Hot Springs
Type: Community
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–10 PM; last 3-hr session 7 PM
More InfoEldorado Springs Pool
Type: Community
Opening Hours: Memorial Day–Labor Day; 10 AM–6 PM daily
More InfoStrawberry Park Hot Springs
Type: Community
Opening Hours: Sun–Thu 10 AM–10 PM; Fri–Sat 10 AM–Midnight
More InfoTravel Insurance
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