Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop
Thermal hot springs flow abundantly throughout Western Colorado. Soaking in natural mineral water is a time-honored tradition used to enhance wellness. Many people believe that these balneology practices help to prevent illness and treat ailments. One thing is for sure, relaxation is the ultimate goal. This 800-mile (1,288-kilometer) loop showcases the premier hot springs attractions in the state. There is so much variety year-round, from intimate private baths to the world's largest mineral hot springs pool. Each of the 23 facilities offers unique features like vapor caves, hot pots, terraced pools, enormous travertine formations and fun-filled aquatic centers. Take a week or two to really experience the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop. From Denver, begin your itinerary in Chaffee County, the communities of Buena Vista, Nathrop and Salida. Then travel south, where Saguache County, Pagosa Springs, Durango and Ouray are the next stops. Onward to Glenwood Springs and Carbondale. Finally, Steamboat Springs completes the journey.
Chaffee County
Hot Springs & Cool Adventures
There’s no cooler place to check out Colorado hot springs than in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Nestled along the Continental Divide, the welcoming mountain towns of Buena Vista and Salida are bustling outdoor recreation destinations, with emphasis on hiking, mountain biking, skiing and whitewater rafting. Add the element of relaxing in natural geothermic waters and this central Colorado destination has it all. From historic and rustic to state-of-the-art spa facilities to cabin hideaways and unique natural creek soaking, the hot springs in Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado offer something for everyone. So whether you’re an avid hiker, fervent paddler or simply an admirer of Colorado’s natural beauty, the area’s outdoor assets won’t disappoint.
MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT | SALIDA HOT SPRINGS AQUATIC CENTER | COTTONWOOD HOT SPRINGS | AQUA HOT SPRING | ANTERO HOT SPRINGS CABINS
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Style: Refreshingly Authentic
Located in the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, Pagosa Springs is surrounded by three million acres of wilderness and national forest areas. Home to the world’s deepest geothermal aquifer, the Great Pagosa Hot Springs was discovered hundreds of years ago by the Southern Ute Indians, and was respected for its rejuvenating and healing qualities. Today, Pagosa Springs features abundant outdoor adventure with 650 miles of trails, the most snow in Colorado in the winter months and nearby Chimney Rock National Monument. Pagosa Springs provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy the water, fish, hike, raft and bike without ever leaving town.
THE SPRINGS RESORT & SPA | OVERLOOK HOT SPRINGS SPA | HEALING WATERS RESORT & SPA
Steamboat Springs
Experience a Splash of Western Charm
Long before Steamboat Springs was known for its world-class ski resort, the 150 geothermal hot springs that dotted the landscape were revered among Native Americans and pioneers alike. Regarded as relaxing and healing for the mind, body and soul, it was a bubbling hot spring that even inspired the name of the town. Today, two hot springs offer unique and memorable experiences. Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon for the family or a leisurely soak for those sore legs after a day of hiking or skiing, Steamboat’s hot springs are the perfect way to put an exclamation point on the ultimate Colorado getaway. Get up to Steamboat Springs any time of year to experience these unforgettable hot springs.
Glenwood Springs
A Recreational Paradise Courtesy of H20
Glenwood Springs is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, home to one-of-a-kind attractions that include the Glenwood Hot Springs, considered the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool; Iron Mountain Hot Springs situated along the Colorado River; mountain-top Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which features the highest-elevation roller coaster in North America; and the Yampah Vapor Caves, a naturally occurring underground steam bath. During the warm-weather months rafting the town’s two rivers, hiking to Hanging Lake and biking along paved and unpaved trails are popular activities. Come fall, Glenwood Springs welcomes leaf-peepers and big game hunters to the area. In winter, skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling dominate outdoor itineraries. Glenwood Springs offers a full spectrum of lodging choices.
GLENWOOD HOT SPRINGS | IRON MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS | YAMPAH SPA & VAPOR CAVES
Ouray
Soaking in the Switzerland of America
The mountains and canyons of Ouray County are filled with some of southwest Colorado’s most iconic scenery. Ouray welcomes visitors with a friendly and charming downtown filled with unique locally owned shops, breweries, distilleries, coffee roasters, chocolatiers, restaurants, performing arts venues and festival sites, extensive lodging options and countless adventures that let you touch the mountains. Ouray boasts a downtown National Historic District of impeccably restored Victorian buildings. Its hot springs have been a draw for the bone-weary for centuries. The same geologic forces that made the town rich in mining also produced large and pleasant hot springs, free of the strong sulfur smell that you encounter at many others.
OURAY HOT SPRINGS POOL & FITNESS CENTER | THE HISTORIC WIESBADEN HOT SPRINGS SPA & LODGINGS | BOX CANYON LODGE & HOT SPRINGS | TWIN PEAKS LODGE & HOT SPRINGS.
Saguache County
The Sky’s the Limit in Saguache County
Wide-open spaces and ranching communities dominate this quiet corner of Colorado. Home to several International Dark-Sky Communities, there’s no better place for stargazing. Watch the movement of celestial bodies while treating your own to the region’s plentiful and varied geothermal springs.
JOYFUL JOURNEY HOT SPRINGS SPA AND EVENT CENTER | SAND DUNES RECREATION | SPLASHLAND
Durango
Go for Wild Rides Then Wind Down in Durango Hot Springs
Adventure is the name of the game in the Four Corners region of Colorado. A college town with Durango as its home base, recreation is a way of life here. When it comes to outdoor activities, take it easy or take it to the max. Whatever your level of engagement, finish strong with a relaxing soak in the hot mineral waters.
Carbondale
An Inspired Setting for Recreation & Relaxation
Situated at the base of a 13,000-foot snow-capped peak, it’s no wonder Carbondale is a breath of fresh air for outdoor enthusiasts and an inspiration for artists. Like the creativity teeming in this Colorado community, natural hot springs also flow abundantly offering visitors the opportunity to recharge and relax body and mind.