by Michele Kadison

The geothermal wonders of Colorado are no secret.  Located throughout the state, these hot spring pools filled with minerals to sooth and rejuvenate the body, are just the thing after a long day on the slopes.

There are many hot springs tucked away in remote areas, and coming upon them can be one of the best surprises after a tiring hike.  The more available and popular mineral baths are just as wonderful, often with great amenities that include swimming and diving pools, kiddy pools, gyms, locker rooms, restaurants, and spa amenities.

Let’s take a look at a few of the best equipped and most popular hot springs in the Colorado Rockies.

Durango

Trimble Hot Springs is a lovely, intimate resort secluded in the Four Corners town of Durango.  Enjoy the experience of soaking under the stars just the same way that Marilyn Monroe did when she visited.

Glenwood Springs

The hot springs in this rocky mountain area were frequented by the Ute Indians before settlers appeared on the scene.  The first stone bathhouse was built in 1888 when the mining community and their families realized that the springs could rejuvenate their tired bodies.  The bathhouse is still standing.  Much later, European royalty as well as celebrities and politicians discovered the healing powers of these springs and began to flock to this northwestern Colorado town to relax their bodies and minds while taking in some of the most breathtaking scenery.

Glenwood Springs Hot Springs Pool Complex has since become one of the largest hot springs pools in the world.  Covering three blocks, the complex includes swimming pools, a therapy pool, a diving pool, a children’s pool, a waterslide, athletic club, locker rooms, and snack bar.  The nearby hotels are geothermally heated by the springs, and the water itself is treated with an ozone purification system that guarantees pure water all the time.

Just next door you will find the Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves where you can take a natural sauna and enjoy the benefits of the various spa treatments offered.

Hot Sulphur Springs

Located northwest of Winterpark and Granby, this north central Colorado resort was reconstructed in the 1990s.  Now with a selection of more than 20 pools, guests can choose to soak outdoors, in a therapy bath, or in the solarium.  Spa services are available as are accommodations.  Enjoy the peace and quiet of the Colorado River while you release tensions and take in the 360 degree sights of big nature at its best.

Idaho Springs

Just west of Denver you will find the Indian Springs Resort on the bands of Soda Creek in Idaho Springs.  A popular stop for skiers after a long weekend on the slopes, this resort consists of an indoor mineral pool, private tubs, spa services, a restaurant, and accommodations.  Popular with miners and millionaires, this vacation destination has a long and interesting history…just ask the locals!

Nathrop

Just south of Buena Vista and West of Nathrop, at the foot of the Collegiate Peaks lies Princeton Hot Springs.  Soak in the hot spring on the edge of Chalk Creek and then take a quick dunk in the freezing waters for a wonderful if not slightly shocking yet purifying experience!  Enjoy the several mineral pools, bath house, lodge, and restaurant for a rejuvenating visit to the central Rockies.

Ouray

Often called the Switzerland of North America, Ouray has its own special charm.  Located in southwestern Colorado, the Ouray Hot Springs Pool provides visitors with remedial waters guaranteed to soothe the weariest of hikers.  Stay in one of the local hotels to enjoy private springs that originate from the same central source.

Pagosa Springs

As you approach Pagosa Springs in southwestern Colorado, you will already get a slight whiff of the sulfur that makes these mineral baths so healing.  Once you have arrived, the scent fades, but not the effect.  Here you will find spa amenities as well as on-site accommodations to make your stay comfortable and relaxing.

According to “The Springs Resort” Resort Manager, Denise Israel, locals in the Denver and Colorado Springs area as well as people from all over the world flock to Pagosa Springs for the high mineral content that is so remedial for bones and muscles.  Guests claim that the waters truly help to heal symptoms of arthritis as well as old injuries.  Because of this, The Springs Resort boasts many repeat clients.  With Wolf Creek nearby, The Springs Resort offers Ski & Slope packages, where visitors can soak at night after a day on the slopes.  Many claim that they are never sore after this healing practice – even after hours of cross-country or downhill skiing.  All of the 18 pools are outdoors and are known as some of the most hygenic in Colorado.  Israel says they are thoroughly cleaned three times a week and undergo constant filtration.  Soak in the mineral rich hot springs and you will be so warmed that you’ll find yourself walking in the winter sun in nothing more than your bathing suit!

For information on The Springs Resort, contact:  800-225-0934

Salida

Ideal for children, the Salida Hot Springs Pool in central Colorado makes a perfect family vacation spot.  As an indoor municipal facility, you have a choice of many pools of varying temperatures, along with a wading pool, and other amenities.  Here you never have to worry about the weather as everything is under a welcoming roof, allowing you to soak, play, and relax in comfort.

Steamboat Springs

Nestled into a resplendent river valley, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is seven mile drive from the town of Steamboat Springs.  Take the winding scenic road and arrive at one of the most beautiful hot spring areas in the Colorado Rockies where you are surrounded by canyons and a gurgling creek.  The hot springs originate in the mountains where they begin at roughly 150 degrees Fahrenheit, cooling off by the time they arrive at this rustic destination.  Change your clothes in the on-site teepee or in the bathhouse, order a massage, and then spend your day enjoying the thermal waters.  There is camping on site as well as a few cabins.  After dark, the hot springs are clothing-optional.

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