There are many natural hot springs in Colorado, which is located in the foothills of the Rockies. The natural hot tub is a result of the rain and snow that have fallen.
If you prefer private springs in historic towns or fancy all-inclusive resorts, there is a Colorado hot spring for you to choose from. We have a round-up of our favorite things.
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There is a hot springs in the Routt National Forest. The property's five pools are fed by a steaming mountain spring that is 140 degrees. The hot springs are only for adults and there is little light which makes for spectacular stargazing. It is necessary to make reservations.
The closest park to Hot Springs is at the end of Country Road 36. The last two miles are steep and are not paved. Take a door-to-door shuttle.
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The 25 man-made pools at The Springs are fed by the 1002-foot-deep Mother Spring. A few of the mineral-rich pools have access to the icy waters of the San Juan River, which is perfect for cooling off between soaks. There is a full line of spa treatments available. You can stay overnight for extras.
There is a way to get to The Springs. The airport and car rental agencies can be found along the highway.
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Valley View Hot Springs is located at the end of a dirt road in the San Juan Valley, which is seven miles from the intersection of highways 285 and 17 It takes 3.5 hours to get from Denver to it.
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The largest hot springs pool in the world, water slides and splash pads, and an adventure river are just some of the things that make Glenwood Hot Springs a family favorite. It's easy to make a day trip with the kids or an impromptu weekend escape with the addition of the pool and restaurant. The smaller, hotter and quieter pool has power showers and is ideal for spa treatments.
The resort is located just off the I 70 in the historic town of Glenwood Springs. You can arrive by car from the highway. The train from Denver takes more time but the views are amazing.
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Dunton Hot Springs is the epitome of western luxury and lore: a ghost town turned exclusive resort, a luxurious all-inclusive retreat, and the hideout of the Sundance Kid. From the original log cabins to the saloon-turned-dining hall, the property has been meticulously restored. There are hot springs, indoor and out, as well as sleigh rides, cross country skiing, fly fishing and more. They include farm-to-table meals and drinks.
You can get to Dunton Hot Springs by taking Country Road 38. The nearest airport is 50 miles away, while the larger one is 90 miles away. It's easy to book a car from the airport.
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One of the most unforgettable hot springs in the state is Conundrum Hot Springs. There are two steaming pools that overlook the mountain valley. The hike is tough but doable, with a punishing 2400-foot elevation gain, and going through aspen groves and mountain meadow. If you can get a permit, you should consider camping instead of hiking. In the summer, Conundrum can get busy, but in late spring or early fall it can be less crowded. It is not recommended to travel during the winter.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness contains the Conundrum Hot Springs. The Conundrum Creek Trailhead is close to town. It's possible to park overnight.
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The San Juan National Forest is home to a collection of steaming pools. The pools were designed to capture a mixture of river water and mineral water that bubbles up from springs along the bank. The temperatures range from 100F to 140F depending on the season and overflow of the river water. Visitors create pools on the spot by adding and moving rocks. You can get the warmest soaks in the summer and fall.
You can get to the hot springs on the Sheep Creek Trail. Country Road 166 is taken from either town. It's a dirt road that leads to the trail. In the winter and spring, a 4wd vehicle is advisable.
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The article was first published on March 15, 1992.