10 Most Relaxing And Invigorating Spots In Colorado

A warm, soothing bath at the end of a long day is often the key to unwinding and letting go of inner stress. Thanks to the pockets of heat underground across the country, travelers can enjoy that same relaxing feeling in the comfort of a natural paradise.

While many states have hot springs, particularly in the western half of the United States, that range in temperature from lukewarm to boil-the-skin-off-bones, Colorado is unique due to the number of hot springs in that ideal bathing temperature.

Many of these hot springs have become centerpieces of spas, state parks, and national parks, offering many unique experiences and getaways for travelers hoping to soothe the stress away.

10 Strawberry Park Hot Springs

The perfect blend of spa and nature, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is frequently first on a Coloradan’s list of hot spots. In the mountains of Steamboat Springs, guests can enjoy natural hot springs that have been reinforced with unique stonework. Thanks to a reservation-only system, the number of guests per pool is limited, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing experience. Lodging is also available in the area for those who need more than a day to release their stress. These springs are so remote visiting from November to May may require a 4-wheel drive or a snowmobile. Thankfully the reward for such a trek is more than worth the effort.

Price: $20/person
Reservation Required? Yes

This is a CASH-ONLY location. No credit cards or checks are accepted. Reservations are required and can be made 15–30 days in advance.

9 Pagosa Springs Resort And Spa

The Pagosa Springs acts as both a spa and an open-to-the-public collection of hot springs. With 20 mineral pools to choose from, guests can choose either a day pass or an overnight stay at the Spa and Resort. Those just looking for a spa day can buy a pass for $65, which offers access to any of the 20 pools from opening at 9 am to closing at 9:30 pm. Add-ons include cabanas, mud baths, adult-only pools, and other luxury experiences. Paired with the elevated views of several of the pools and the nearby river, this oasis has everything visitors need for a secluded getaway with all the comforts of 5-star living.

Price: $65/adult, $35/child
Reservation Required? No

8 Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

Colorado, with its scenic mountain landscapes, is famous for its dry powder, which is perfect for many winter activities. Travelers not interested in choosing between this high-elevation fun and the warmth of the hot springs can enjoy a bit of both through a package at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. Hop on the slopes of Sunlight Mountain Resort, then melt the aches away in one of Glenwood’s Hot Springs. While the current lodge and amenities are state-of-the-art, the springs have been home to a resort since 1890. 130 years later, the hot springs in Glenwood are just as soothing today as they were back then.

Price: $39/adult, $25/child
Reservation Required? No

7 Conundrum Hot Springs

With so many hot springs tapped for high-end resorts and spas, it may seem like the natural beauty of these geothermal pools is out of reach for those not willing to pay top dollar. Fortunately, there are still many free hot springs throughout Colorado; they just take a little more work to get to. Those hoping to relax in the Conundrum Hot Springs must first complete an 8.5-mile hike at 11,000 feet above sea level. Crossing Conundrum Creek, the relatively straight hike follows the mountains and crosses meadows before finishing at the hot springs themselves. Surrounded by Aspen trees and the high mountains, the two natural hot springs are ready to reward travelers who have made the trek to find them.

Price: FREE
Reservation Required? No (Hiking trail closed during winter)

This is a CLOTHING OPTIONAL (NUDE) natural hot spring.

6 Ouray City Hot Springs

The city of Ouray exists around its many hot springs and underground geothermal pools, some of which are the source of the soothing waters at the Ouray Hot Springs Swimming Pools. While the water at this location is all natural mineral hot spring water, it is pumped into man-made pools. The pools themselves were engineered over 100 years ago as an escape for sore local miners. The result is a natural hot springs soak with all the amenities of a state-of-the-art pool center, including a lap pool, kid's area, waterside, and activity pool.

Price: $26/adult, $16/youth (4–17 years old)
Reservation Required? No

5 Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Voted as a 2020 Traveler's Choice winner by TripAdvisor, the Iron Mountain Hot Springs are a perfect escape for those looking for family fun or a quiet soak. There are family pools, including a cooler freshwater pool for those who need a break from the 92-108 degree Spring waters, and a quiet zone surrounding the resort to make sure guests feel truly out in nature. If the Colorado mineral mixture in the water isn't enough, the new (as of 2022) experience pools offer pools inspired by the hot springs of Japan, Montana and other famous spots around the world. Paired with awe-inspiring views of the Colorado River, Iron Mountain, Flat Tops, and more, these springs are sure to calm any troubled soul.

Price: $36-52/soak (dependent on day and time)
Reservation Required? Yes

4 Waunita Hot Springs Ranch

When hot spring-fed pools aren't enough, a trip to Waunita Hot Springs Ranch is the perfect solution. Horseback riding, ATV outings, and skiing are all available at this private-group-focused ranch. This doesn't mean that the hot springs-fed pools are any less impressive. The pool, which sits between 95 and 102 degrees, is 35 feet by 90 feet, making it one of the largest private hot springs-fed pools in the state. The nearby hot tub offers an even warmer soak, between 100 and 104 degrees, making this the perfect stop for a family reunion, wedding, or simple weekend away.

Price: $20/adult, $10/child (3 and up)
Reservation Required? No**

**While reservations are not required for a day swim pass, priority is given to private events, and the pool is closed to the public on those days. Check the site calendar or email the location to confirm availability.

3 Orvis Hot Springs

Travelers looking for a more mature retreat may find their perfect escape at the clothing-optional Orvis Hot Springs Resort. With 10 naturally fed hit spring pools that range in temperature from 64 to 112 degrees, there is something for everybody. The location at the base of the San Juan Mountains gives visitors beautiful scenic views while they soak, and those camping or staying on the lodge have 24-hour access to the pools, unlike many other hot spring resorts. While many of the Colorado hot springs have similar mineral make-ups, Orvis stands apart during to its high lithium levels. With three indoor pools, this stop is perfect for those needing to relax no matter the time of year.

Price: $28/adult, $15/child
Reservation Required? No

This is a CLOTHING OPTIONAL (NUDE) resort. For a clothing-required alternative, check out nearby Ouray City Hot Springs.

2 Antero Hot Springs Cabins

Colorado is full of popular outdoor adventures, and that popularity means lots of sharing. This extends to most of the hot springs in the state, but there are exceptions, including three Antero Hot Springs Cabins. This quiet retreat backs against the Chalk River and offers two private cabins and a larger private chalet, each with a private hot springs-fed pool that can be accessed 24 hours a day for guests. Since the pools are only open to those staying at the cabins, day passes are not offered, and tenants can enjoy their oasis without interruption. With overnight stays required to enjoy a soak here, guests can wander around the county to enjoy biking, fishing, and hiking before returning to home base for an end-of-day soak.

Price: $350-$385/night (+$30/night for additional people)
Reservation Required? Yes

1 Radium Hot Springs

If the price of Conundrum Hot Springs feels right, but the hike seems a bit overwhelming, the popular Radium Hot Springs in Kremmling is a perfect compromise. At less than a mile from the parking lot to the springs, these free, naturally occurring pools are a great day trip for all ages. Unlike a number of other free hot springs, swimwear is required at this location. Adventurous visitors can step out of the pools and take a leap off the 45-foot cliff before settling into the pools. With campgrounds right along the path, this perfect day trip can become the perfect weekend getaway enjoying some of Colorado's most beautiful landscapes.