Tucked between mountains where mineral water bubbles up to the surface, Buena Vista and Salida are the places to be when you need to escape from the world. These towns boast some of the hottest aqua in Colorado — 140 degrees Fahrenheit! The odorless, steaming liquid contains iron, potassium, calcium, boron and more minerals that may do wonders for your skin.
Indigenous peoples and homesteaders used the natural geysers for medicine, therapy and spiritual reasons. So, Chalk Creek, Cottonwood Creek and Poncha Springs have been restoring weary muscles for hundreds of years. Open year-round, but even more special when they’re doused in snow with steam rising through the early morning sunlight when they’re less crowded, these spas are ideal for couples, families and individuals alike.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Named after a famous Colorado fourteener (a mountain reaching 14,000 feet or more in height), Mount Princeton was established in 1879, but the historical bathhouse was built in 1867. The spring-fed pools are included when you book a visit at the main lodge or one of the cabins. Sit for a spell in Chalk Creek’s “hot pots,” which give a no-frills, pure experience, or wander to the flowing lazy river and 400-foot water slide open each summer.
Grown-ups wanting to get away can journey to the spa. With a warming sauna and steam room, the full-service health club provides fitness and water-exercise classes. Want to be all alone? Grab a freshly made beverage from the juice bar and rent a personal thermal fount.
For cozy views of the Chalk Cliffs, head to Mary Murphy Steak House for fine dining following a calming day. The succulent prime ribeye comes coated in a chili-espresso rub and the lobster-truffle macaroni and cheese is a mouthwatering thrill.