9 Iconic Hot Springs in Southwest Colorado (According to a Local)
Let’s talk about one of my favorite places on earth—Southwest Colorado! This region is known for its rugged mountains, sprawling deserts, and stunning natural landscapes.
But what I love most about this area is the hot springs! And let me tell you, there’s nothing like a soak in a hot spring after a long hike or a day of skiing.
Now, I don’t know about you, but I’m on a mission to experience every hot spring in Southwest Colorado. I mean, why not? Life is short, and we’ve got to enjoy the good stuff while we can, right?
In this guide, we’re going to share with you the best hot springs in Southwest Colorado. As locals, we’ve scoured the area to do our fair share of soaking to bring you the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide possible. Let’s go!
1. The Springs Resort & Spa—Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Cost: Day Pass Adults $65 Children $35
Hours: Day Use 9 AM to 9:30 PM or 24 Hours Access for Hotel Guests
Pagosa Springs is one of the crown jewels of Southwest Colorado’s hot springs scene! Located in the stunning San Juan River Valley, there are seven geothermal hot springs options to choose from, both free and paid. But let’s be real, there’s one that really steals the show—Pagosa Springs Hot Springs Resort & Spa.
Did you know that the “Mother spring”, holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring? That’s right—it’s over 1,000 feet deep, and it feeds all of the hot springs pools at the Springs Resort and Spa.
The Springs Resort & Spa has 23 different pools to choose from, each with its own unique temperature and vibe. So, whether you’re looking for a hot and steamy soak or a more refreshing dip, you’ll find a pool that suits your fancy.
The temperatures of the hot springs range from a balmy 83 degrees to a toasty 114 degrees Fahrenheit. That means you can customize your soak to your heart’s content, whether you want to relax and unwind or get those muscles nice and loose.
And the views? Whew, they’re something else. You’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the San Juan River flowing right beside you. You’ll be soaking in some of the most awe-inspiring views in the whole dang state.
But hey, if you’re more of a budget traveler, don’t worry—there are plenty of other options to choose from in Pagosa Springs. You can read more about my locals guide to free hot springs here.
2. Ouray Hot Springs—Ouray, Colorado
Cost: Day pass $26 for Adults $16 Youth
Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM seven days a week (Peak Season) Off season=Closed
Location: 1220 Main St Ouray, CO 81427
Ouray—AKA the “Switzerland of America.” This charming mountain town tucked away in the heart of Colorado’s rugged landscape is one of my favorite spots in all of southwest Colorado and for good reason.
If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly hot springs experience, then you’ve got to check out Ouray Hot Springs. With a pool, slides and a diving board, and lap lanes, it’s the perfect spot to keep the kiddos entertained while you relax in one of the hot pools.
The temperature of the hot springs ranges from 96 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect temperature to melt away your worries and soothe your muscles.
As if that wasn’t enough, Ouray Hot Springs is surrounded by the stunning San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking views while you soak. And don’t worry about the weather—the hot springs are open year-round, though the hours and admission fees may vary depending on the season.
But wait, there’s more! Visitors to Ouray Hot Springs can also enjoy a full-service spa, a fitness center, and even a poolside bar and grill.
3. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort—Nathrop, Colorado
- Cost: $40 Adults $30 Children—Reservations are not required
- Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM Open year-round
- Location: 15870 County Road 162 Nathrop, Colorado 81236
Mount Princeton Hot Springs—This place is seriously amazing, and trust me when I say, you’re going to want to add it to your bucket list ASAP.
Located between Buena Vista and Salida, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is nestled at the base of the stunning Collegiate Peaks in Nathop.
And let me tell you, the views are unreal. Picture yourself soaking in a hot pool, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine wilderness—it’s like something out of a dream.
But enough about the views, let’s talk about the pools. With over a dozen geothermal pools to choose from, you’ll never run out of soaking options.
And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can book a private pool or even a spa treatment. The relaxation levels at this place are off the charts.
4. Orvis Hot Springs—Ridgeway, Colorado
- Cost: Day pass $28 adults and $15 children
- Hours: 9AM-9PM or 24 hour access for guests staying onsite
- Location: 1585 County Rd #3, Ridgway, CO 81432
Orvis Hot Springs, located in Ridgeway Colorado, just 8 miles from Ridgeway State Park is one of the oldest hot springs in southwest Colorado and has been around for over a century!
This hot springs resort is a place where you can let it all hang out and soak in some natural hot springs goodness. That’s right, this is a clothing-optional resort where you can truly let your freak flag fly.
The resort has ten soaking areas for you to choose from, with temps ranging from a cool 65 degrees to a toasty 112 degrees. Seven of these areas are outside, where you can bask in the sun or soak under the stars.
And if you’re looking for a break from the elements, they have an indoor pool and two private tubs to keep you comfy.
In addition to the soaking pools, Orvis Hot Springs also has a sauna, a meditation room, and a massage center. It’s like a full spa experience, but with the added bonus of natural hot springs.
And the best part? Orvis Hot Springs is open year-round, so you can soak your cares away no matter the season. Admission fees vary depending on the time of day and day of the week, but trust us, it’s worth every penny.
And if you really want to make a weekend of it, Orvis Hot Springs even offers lodging options, including private cabins, yurts, and campsites. It’s the ultimate hot spring getaway!
So grab your swimsuit (or don’t), and head on over to Orvis Hot Springs for a relaxing and rejuvenating hot spring adventure.
5. Sand Dunes Hot Springs—Hooper, Colorado
- Cost: Adults 13 + $15 / Children 3 to 12 $10
- Hours: March 1 – Nov 30: 10am-10pm.
- Winter Hours: Dec 1 – Feb 28: 1pm-8pm
- Open Year-round: Closed Thursdays for cleaning
- Location: 1991 Co Rd 63, Hooper, CO 81125
Sand Dunes Hot Springs, AKA the Hooper Pools is located in the small town of Hooper, nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and just a short distance from the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Now, let me tell you the history of this place (cause it’s really quite interesting). Back in the early 1930s, some oil drillers accidentally hit the motherlode: hot water! Locals enjoyed it for many years until it closed in 1978. But never fear, it reopened in 1995 as the “Hooper Pools” and now offers two ways to get your hot spring fix.
First up, we’ve got the large outdoor family pool, known as the Sand Dunes Pool. It’s maintained at a toasty 98 degrees all year round and even has a water slide and diving board. Bring the kids, bring the grandparents, bring anyone who wants to splash around and have a good time.
But if you’re looking for a more serene experience, head over to the adults-only (21+) Greenhouse Lounge. As soon as you step in, you’ll be transported to a lush tropical paradise, complete with a comfortable temperature of 70 degrees year-round. You’ll be surrounded by an abundance of plants and the intoxicating scent of soil and foliage.
In the Greenhouse, there are three artesian water pools heated by natural thermal water, with temperatures ranging from 102-112 degrees. Plus, there’s a massive zero-entry pool that’s also around 98 degrees and even has a water fountain. And if you’re in the mood for a good sweat, check out the steam room (aka sauna).
6. Dunton Hot Spring—Dolores, Colorado
- Cost: Dunton Hot Springs only offers the hot springs for guests who stay the night. Rates start at $970 per night
- Location: 8532 Road 38, Dolores, CO 81323
If you’re looking for a luxurious and upscale hot springs experience, this place is the ultimate destination. The resort is nestled in the beautiful San Juan Mountains and features a stunningly restored historic mining town.
But the coolest part? The Bathhouse! It’s been around since the late 1800s and has been restored to its original grandeur. Inside you’ll find a hot springs pool, sauna, steam room, and even private massage rooms. So fancy!
And don’t even get me started on the food. Dunton Hot Springs has an award-winning restaurant that serves up delicious and locally-sourced cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new and exciting to try.
Best part? It’s all-inclusive! That means all meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your stay. Of course, you’ll have to pay extra for alcoholic drinks, but it’s totally worth it.
You’ll feel like royalty as you soak in the warm mineral waters while surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. And if you want to take your relaxation to the next level, the spa at Dunton Hot Springs offers a variety of treatments and massages to soothe your soul.
7. Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa—Durango, Colorado
Cost: Day Pass for Adults $39 Children $15
Hours: Open daily from 9 AM-10 PM—Reservations are required
Location: 6475 Co Rd 203, Durango, CO 81301
Nestled just a hop, skip, and a jump away from downtown Durango, lies the beloved Durango Hot Springs—or as the locals fondly refer to it, Tremble Hot Springs. It’s the perfect spot to kick back, relax and soak away your troubles in one of their several natural hot spring pools of varying temperatures.
With three large soaking pools available, you can take your pick between a hot, warm, or cool soak, ranging from a steamy 103°F to a refreshing 85°F. And if that’s not enough, Durango Hot Springs also has several smaller private pools to offer a more intimate experience.
The hot springs are fed by a natural mineral spring, which means the water is completely chemical-free—good for you, good for the environment! Plus, with a variety of spa services and massages available, you can truly take your relaxation to the next level.
And let’s not forget the cherry on top – an on-site restaurant that serves up mouth-watering meals made with locally-sourced ingredients. Because what’s better than a hot soak followed by a delicious meal? Nothing!
8. Valley View Hot Springs—Moffat, Colorado
- Cost: $17 per person (summer) and $15 (winter) Reservations are Required
- Hours: Day Use—11 AM-8 PM
- Location: 64393 County Road GG, Moffat, CO, 81143
Valley View Hot Springs—this place is a true hidden gem! Tucked away in the beautiful San Luis Valley of Colorado, it’s a natural hot springs retreat that’s sure to give you the relaxation and rejuvenation you need.
First things first, let’s talk about the hot springs themselves. There are seven different pools and ponds to choose from, all varying in temperature from lukewarm to piping hot. So no matter what your preferred temperature is, you’ll be able to find the perfect spot to soak your troubles away.
These hot springs are completely natural and unchlorinated, so you can feel good about soaking in all that mineral-rich goodness.
But it’s not just the hot springs that make this place special. The surrounding area is absolutely breathtaking, with rolling hills, lush forests, and the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains towering in the distance.
And if you’re a fan of stargazing, you’re in luck—Valley View Hot Springs is located in one of the darkest regions of Colorado, making for some truly stunning views of the night sky.
One thing to keep in mind is that Valley View Hot Springs is a clothing-optional retreat, so if that’s not your cup of tea, this might not be the place for you. But if you’re feeling adventurous and want to let it all hang out, go for it! The vibe here is very laid-back and accepting, so you’ll feel right at home no matter what.
9. Joyful Journey—Salida, Colorado
Cost: Adults = $15 Children ages 5-14 = $12
Hours: Day Guests 9:30 AM – 10 PM Sunday – Wednesday
Location: 28640 CR 58 EE, Moffat, CO 81143
Looking for a little slice of paradise to unwind and recharge? Well, look no further than Joyful Journey Hot Spring—the ultimate relaxation destination, just outside of Salida, Colorado.
Nestled on the west side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the stunning San Luis Valley, this place is a hot springs haven, with natural springs that rise at temperatures between 120 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s right, you can soak away all your stress and tension in the most soothing of waters.
But what’s even better is the variety of pools on offer. Feeling like Goldilocks trying to find the perfect temperature? Don’t sweat it—Joyful Journey has got you covered.
Dip your toes in their cool pool set at a chill 98°F, or up the ante with a dip in their medium pool, affectionately known as “The Tower Pool,” at a balmy 104°F. And if you really want to kick it up a notch, head over to “The View Pool,” where you can soak in 108°F water while taking in some of the most breathtaking mountain views around.
What is the best time of year for hot springs in Colorado?
Well, it really depends on what you’re looking for! Colorado hot springs can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time of year for you might depend on your preferences.
If you’re a snow bunny and love the winter chill, then wintertime is definitely the move.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to bask in the sun while you soak, then the warmer months might be more your style.
In the fall, you might be able to catch some gorgeous autumn colors while you soak. And in the spring, you might witness some of the most beautiful wildflowers in bloom.
So really, any time is a good time for hot springs in Colorado— just pick the season that suits you best and get ready to relax!
Best Hot Springs in Southwest Colorado
Wow, what a journey we’ve had exploring the nine iconic hot springs of Southwest Colorado! From the therapeutic waters of Ouray to the luxurious Dunton Hot Springs, we’ve covered some of the best hot springs this region has to offer.
But don’t just take our word for it—plan a visit to these hot springs and experience the healing powers of natural mineral water for yourself. Plus, with the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, you’re in for a treat for both your body and your eyes.
And if you’re craving more hot springs adventures, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We offer a variety of Colorado guides to help you explore all that this beautiful state has to offer.
