There are a multitude of scenic spots to explore in the state of Colorado, and many of the most stunning places are easiest to get to by car. Colorado is split down the middle with the Rocky Mountain Range taking up the west side of the state. Some of these mountainous cities have small airports, but with over fifty mountains peaking at over 14,000 feet, taking a road trip is an enjoyable way to take in all the views.
The hot springs that trickle off the mountains into pools have been capitalized on by several resorts throughout Colorado. While there are places in the mountains to access various mineral springs, the larger, maintained pools will have an entrance fee. These fees will vary by the location. Refer to references for information on each of the hot springs.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is in the Northwest part of Colorado off of US 40. Travelers need to be aware of mountain passes in the winter and be prepared for alternate routes.
There are two hot spring locations in this small ski town. Nestled in the mountains is Strawberry Park Hot Springs. The springs here focus on remaining natural and do not have a lot of frills other hot spring locations may have. There is no one over the age of 18 allowed in after dark, at which time clothing is optional. Visitors can schedule a massage here. For lodging, very rustic cabins are available to rent.
Please note that the 2 mile road to get to these hot springs is unpaved and can be steep in spots. In the winter, chains are required or a 4x4 vehicle.
For a more accessible, resort type hot springs spot, the Old Town Hot Springs, located in downtown Steamboat, may be a better option. This is a multi-use complex right off of Lincoln Avenue. Located at this facility is a fitness center with exercise classes, eight pools, including a lap pool and two water slides.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is a town just off of Interstate 70 on the western side of Colorado about 90 miles east of Grand Junction. The website claims Glenwood Hot Springs contain the world's largest hot spring pool. The Hot Springs have a locker room and showers, a spa, and an athletic club on site.
The main pool has lap lanes, diving boards and water slides, and it is 400 feet long by 100 feet wide. This large pool is kept at 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the smaller pool is around 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
The water flows in from the Yampeh Spring, which provide the pools with over fifteen different minerals. The water temperature from the springs is 122 degree Fahrenheit, so cool fresh water is added to the pools to bring the temperatures down.
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is a small town in the southern part of Colorado, about one hour east of Durango. The town's main attraction is the mineral springs. The three places that offer entrance into the pools are the Overlook Hot Springs Spa, the Spa at Pagosa Springs, and the much larger Springs Resort and Spa, all referenced below.
The Overlook has rooftop hot springs and 5 indoor pools, which may be a good option for the winter months. There is no lodging on site at the Overlook. There is an entrance fee to soak in the pools at The Spa at Pagosa Springs, except for for guests staying in the hotel. The Springs Resort has 23 pools for guests to soak in, five of which are adult only pools. The temperatures range from 83 - 110 degrees Fahrenheit. There is also a hotel and spa on the premises.
Taking a road trip can lead travelers to a few different hot springs that are scattered throughout Colorado. Take a drive down to the Ojo Caliente Resort in close by northern New Mexico for another rejuvenating mineral springs experience.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Old Town Hot Springs, Steamboat Springs, CO
Glenwood Hot Springs, Glenwood Springs, CO
Overlook Hot Springs, The Spa at Pagosa Springs, and The Springs Resort and Spa, Pagosa Springs, CO
Julie McElroy - Freelance travel writer with published articles about places all over the world, including Italy, Colorado, Japan, Germany, and Spain.
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