7 Incredible Pagosa Springs Hot Springs (Free & Paid!)
As a local of Pagosa Springs, I can attest to the town’s unique beauty and abundance of outdoor activities that are available year-round.
During the summer months, one of the top things to do in Pagosa Springs is to explore the stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. And in the winter, the town becomes a winter wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
But perhaps the most famous attraction in Pagosa Springs is the abundance of natural hot springs, which are world renowned for their therapeutic mineral waters and healing powers.
And, lucky for us, there are seven hot springs in Pagosa Springs that are dispersed throughout the valley—each providing a truly magical and unforgettable relaxation experience.
Hot Springs Near Pagosa Springs
Are There Free Hot Springs In Pagosa Springs?
Although Pagosa Springs is famous for its mineral Hot Springs Resort that offers guests 25 soaking pools, many visitors are unaware that there are also four free hot springs located near Pagosa Springs:
- The Hippy Dip
- Nathans Hippy Dip
- Piedra River Hot Springs
- Rainbow Hot Springs
Pagosa Springs Hot Springs—Free!
1. The Hippy Dip Downtown Pagosa
- Location: 37.2666349, -107.0085812
- Cost: Free
- Distance: 5 minutes from downtown Pagosa
- Camping: No
The first stop on your free hot springs tour should be The hippy dip, which is the most accessible hot springs on this list! This pool is located next to Hot Springs Blvd bridge in the heart of downtown Pagosa Springs, right on the bank of the San Juan River.
Free to the public, The hippy dip offers a great place to soak in warm mineral water. Accessible in the summer, fall, and winter, the Hippy dip Hot springs will have you feeling rejuvenated many months of the year! The hippy dip down town Pagosa Springs has been around since I was a kid, and is the runoff of hot spring water from Healing Waters Hot Springs Spa. The one main pool is about knee deep.
How to Find The Hippy Dip
From Main Street, downtown Pagosa Springs, turn west onto Hot Springs Blvd and cross the bridge. Take your first left into the parking lot across from the visitor’s center. Walk down about 50 ft to the river and you will see two hot springs pools built by river rock.
2. Nathans Hippy Dip Hot Springs
- Location: 37.26648, -107.01066
- Cost: Free
- Distance: 2 minutes from downtown Pagosa
- Camping: No
The hot springs at Nathans Hippy Dip are some of the best free Hot springs in Pagosa Springs. There are 5 different pools to soak in that were built with river rock within the last couple of years and are much hotter than the original hippy dip. The natural mineral water makes for an experience that is both relaxing and rejuvenating, with stunning views of the San Juan River, and the Hot Springs Resort as well. The pools all range in temps from 100-106 degrees F.
If you want the best chance of having Nathan’s hippy dip hot spring all to yourself, sunrise is a magical time. As the sun rises over the mountains, the hot springs come to life, giving visitors the chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The peace and quiet of the early morning hours also provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the day ahead.
How to Find Nathans Hippy Dip
Located downtown Pagosa Springs right off the Riverwalk, Take Main street and park in the free parking area on the one-way street. Take a stroll down the Riverwalk about 100 yards down to the river. In the wintertime, they are hard to miss as you can see the steam coming off of them.
3. Piedra River Hot Springs (Sheep Creek)
- Location: 37.30295,-107.3361
- Cost: Free
- Distance: An hour west of Pagosa Springs
- Camping: Yes
- Hike: 2.8 miles out and back
My personal favorite on this list, this short Pagosa Springs hike is located on the banks of the Piedra River an hour West of town. Free and open to the public, this Hot Spring is a wonderful place to relax.
Getting to Piedra River Hot Springs
To get to Piedra River Hot Springs from Pagosa Springs Take US 160 20 miles turn right on First Fork Road (FS 622) which parallels the piedra river. Drive for 7 miles until you see a sign fr the sheep Creek Trail head and park.
The hike is 2.8 miles out and back where the trail takes you down some steep switch backs to a meadow and then the trail takes you to the right where you will parallel the river until you get to the hot springs on the left located on the bank of the piedra river.
There are a few pools to choose from, each of them varying in temperature. You can easily lay down and be covered by the water.
Camping Near Piedra Hot Springs
One of the most unique experiences you can have is camping near Piedra hot Springs. With plenty of free spots to camp next to the mineral pools in the San Juan National Forest, you‘ll be able to pitch a tent and enjoy a night camping in the woods.
4. Rainbow Hot Springs
- Location: 37.50917, -106.94733
- Cost: Free
- Distance: 3 hours from downtown Pagosa
- Camping: Yes
- Hike: 10.2 miles out and back
Hidden deep in the Weminuche Wilderness Area, Rainbow Hot Springs is a magical hot springs location in Colorado. This is also the most remote hot spring on this list. This Pagosa Springs hikng trail is very secluded but offers some incredible views without requiring any fees or permits. Dog are allowed at the hot springs but must remain on a leash.
How to get to Rainbow Hot Springs
Take hwy 160 Northest towards wolf creek pass for 15 miles. Turn left for West Fork Campground (CR 648). Drive for 7 miles until you reach the west fork trailhead parking lot.
As you embark on your journey to Rainbow hot springs, be prepared for a challenging 10.2 mile out and back hike. The altitude will make it hard work but the views are worth the 1,000 ft elevation gain. This hike should take approximately 6-8 hours.
The first mile of the hike, you are walking through private property. Please stay on the trail and keep your dogs on a leash to respect the owers land. Once past the private property, the trail to Rainbow hot springs wanders though trees on the mountain side. The effects of a wildfire in 2013 is left its mark on the land and is visible through the majority of the hike.
After making three bridge crossings, you know you are getting closer to the hot spring and you will start to see campsites where many hikers set up camp for the night. The trail veers off to the left, leading to the valley below where you will see the hot spring nestled in the bank of the river.
Pagosa Springs Hot Springs—Resorts
When it comes to hot springs, Pagosa Springs is truly a paradise. And while there are many free hot springs scattered throughout the area, there are also three hot springs resorts that are definitely worth a visit.
5. The Springs Resort & Spa
- Location: 323 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
- Price: $49/adult, $25/child
- Hours: 7 days/week 9am-10pm
- Lodging: Yes
Situated in the mountains of southwestern Colorado, The Springs Resort and Spa, is a world-class destination that offers a luxurious getaway for those looking to indulge in natural hot springs, or relax with an afternoon massage. The resort offers 25 therapeutic hot spring mineral pools, each with its own unique experience.
All of the pools are naturally fed by the Mother Spring, the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring. This means that they are constantly replenished with fresh, hot water, making them a perfect place to relax and unwind.
The cost for the standard day pass is $49 per adult, and gives you access to 20 of the 25 pools. The day pass does not require a reservation in advance. The pools are open 9 am – 10 pm with 24-hour unlimited access for Hotel guests.
However, if you want access to all 25 pools, including the adult-only relaxation terrace, a reservation is required. The cost for the all-access pass is $110 per adult and comes with complimentary robes and towels.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a therapeutic experience, the Springs Resort has something to offer. It’s no wonder that the Springs Resort is considered one of the best hot springs resorts in Colorado.
6. Healing Waters Resort & Spa
- Location: 317 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
- Price: $20/adult, $15/child & military, $17/seniors
- Hours: 7 days/week 8am-10pm
- Lodging: Yes
For those who want to experience the benefits of a hot springs resort without breaking the bank, Healing Waters Resort & Spa offers a large outdoor swimming pool filled with hot mineral water in addition to indoor hot baths. Just across the street from the Springs Resort, Healing Waters offers guests unlimited access to its mineral-rich waters. The resort also features a full-service spa, complete with massage therapy and facials.
When you spend a day soaking at Healing Waters Resort, you’ll receive a day pass that includes access to lockers. You can store your belongings safely while you enjoy the facilities. And if you get hungry, you’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Just be sure to use plastic or metal containers – no glass, please.
Healing Waters Resort & Spa is open from 11am to 10pm daily, and the prices are $20 for adults, $15 for children and military, and $17 for seniors.
7. Overlook Hot Springs Spa
- Location: 432 Pagosa St, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Price: $24/adult, $16/child & senior - Hours: 7 days/week 9am-10pm
- Lodging: No
Overlook Mineral Springs Spa offers the most unique and intimate hot springs experience with its rooftop tubs overlooking Pagosa Springs. This quaint little spa features individual soaking pools, each surrounded by beautiful gardens. Plus, it’s another a great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to The Springs Resort.
The Overlook features several different areas to soak including a courtyard with seven geothermal hot spring pools. Out on the rooftop deck, guests can relax in one of three outdoor hot tubs that overlook the town of Pagosa Springs and the San Juan River. Guests can also enjoy the cold plunge tub for a quick refresh.
Additionally, the Overlook Hot Springs offers a variety of massages to suit any need. Their hot stone massage is perfect for those who want to relax and ease tight muscles. The pre-natal massage is perfect for expectant mothers, as it helps to relieve the aches and pains that come with pregnancy. And their couples massage is a wonderful way to spend some quality time with your partner. After your massage, you’ll get to enjoy a private one-hour soak in a large natural hot spring tub.
The Overlook is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 10pm, and adults can soak for $24 per day. Seniors and children can soak for $16 per day. While there are no overnight accommodations at the spa, guests can book a room at one of the nearby hotels. With its convenient location to downtown Pagosa Springs and variety of services, Overlook Hot Springs is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate!
What Are The Benefits Of Soaking In Pagosa Hot Springs Water?
The geothermal pools in Pagosa Springs have long been known for their healing qualities. The water is rich in minerals, including sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals are absorbed through the skin, providing a range of health benefits. For example, sulfur is an antibacterial agent that can help to improve skin conditions such as acne and promote healthy skin. Calcium and magnesium are essential to strengthen bones, while potassium helps to lower blood pressure and increase energy levels. In addition, the mineral-rich waters of the geothermal pools can have relaxing, rejuvenating effects on sore muscles.
History of Pagosa Springs Hot Springs
The Southern Ute Indian tribe is one of many Native American groups that have a long history in the Pagosa Springs area. For hundreds of years, the Southern Utes lived in the area and made use of the hot springs. They believed that the water that bubbles up from the springs had powerful healing properties and often brought sick or injured tribe members to the springs in order to seek treatment.
The name “Pagosa” is derived from the Ute word meaning “healing waters.” The high temperature of the water is thought to help improve circulation and increase blood flow, while the high mineral content is believed to aid in detoxification.
While the area has changed significantly since the days when the Southern Utes first settled there, it remains an important part of their identity. Today, people from all over the world come to Pagosa Springs to experience the benefits of these unique waters. Whether you are looking to relax in a hot spring or hoping to find relief from an injury or illness, a visit to Pagosa Springs is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Best Time to Visit Free Hot Springs
Each of these natural hot springs are a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, but it’s important to note that the best time to visit is during the rivers lowest flow rate (summer, fall and winter). Although, some hot springs on this list may not be accessible in the winter.
Tips For Visiting A Natural Hot Spring For The First Time
Natural hot springs are typically less developed and more delicate than resorts, so please respect the environment and be courteous to others by following hot springs etiquette:
Leave no trace – This means packing out everything you brought in, respecting wildlife, and being careful with fire.
No glass containers or alcohol – they can break easily in this environment.
Keep noise levels down, especially when other guests are visiting – remember that you are sharing the hot springs with other people.
Don’t use shampoo, soap, or chemical sunscreens in hot springs – they disrupt the delicate balance of the water.
What To Bring On Your Hot Springs Adventure
When planning a trip to a hot springs, there are a few essential items you will need to pack. If you are soaking at one of the resorts or exploring a secluded spot off the beaten path, these items will ensure that you have a comfortable and safe experience. So what do you pack for a hot springs adventure? With these items in tow, you’ll be ready for a relaxing soak:
Water bottle: The water in hot springs is therapeutic, but it can also be very drying. To avoid getting too thirsty during your trip or wasting plastic bottles that will end up as garbage after you’re done using them, bring an insulated container with iced coldness to ensure optimal hydration levels while soaking!
Sunglasses + Hat: Protect your skin from sunburn and other harmful effects of hot springs by wearing both sunglasses as well as an hat.
Towel: microfiber towels are ideal for soaking in hot springs because they’re super absorbent. The material also has a quick-drying time.
Water shoes/sandals): You’ll want to wear water shoes or sandals that are slip-resistant when visiting hot springs, so you don’t slip and fall on slip river rocks.
Bathing Suit: Bring a bathing suit or other appropriate clothing to change into after hot springs soaking. You’ll want something light, breathable and quick-drying.
Flashlight (if you plan to soak at night): The dark can be quite spooky and dangerous at night!
Dry bag: A must for your trip to the hot springs is a good, durable dry bag. This way you can bring along your valuables and ensure they wont get wet!
Best Hot Springs In Pagosa Springs
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend your day while in Pagosa Springs, be sure to check out one (or all!) of these hidden gems in Colorado!
You can also check out our Pagosa Springs Ebook that provides an interesting perspective on the area with my honest coverage of what is worth your time and what isn’t.
More Pagosa Springs Adventure Guides:
Excellent site. Loads of information about hot springs, and other activities for the family.
Thank you Jane! I’m glad you enjoyed my content and found it valuable!
Do any of these paid hot springs have showers available? Looking to boondock in NF and would like to visit ones where a shower is included.
We’re happy to confirm that all three of the paid hot springs we mentioned do indeed have showers available. Great question! I’ll update my post to include this information.