Colorado’s Best Hot Springs: Guide to Relaxation

From the rugged Rocky Mountains to the vibrant cultural hubs of Denver, our beloved state offers an unparalleled blend of outdoor recreation and urban sophistication– it’s truly the best of both worlds. Among its most prized natural assets? The hot springs!! 

Offering the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, Colorado’s hot springs are a must-explore treasure! Nestled in stunning mountain landscapes, these geothermal pools provide a soothing escape, whether you’re unwinding after a day on the slopes or seeking a peaceful retreat. Rich in minerals and naturally heated by the earth, Colorado’s hot springs offer more than just warmth—they’re a rejuvenating experience for the body and soul. From secluded wilderness soaks to luxurious spa resorts, there’s a hot spring for every kind of explorer. Let’s explore some of our favorites. 

1. Glenwood Hot Springs – The Iconic Soak

Glenwood Hot Springs is home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool, making it a legendary stop for relaxation and wellness. Nestled in the heart of Glenwood Springs, this historic destination has been drawing visitors since 1888. The massive, steamy waters provide the perfect place to float, soak, or swim while taking in the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery. With its naturally heated, mineral-rich waters and a resort offering spa treatments, a fitness center, and family-friendly waterslides, Glenwood Hot Springs caters to both adventure seekers and those looking for a tranquil retreat. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of skiing or making a weekend getaway, this iconic soak is a Colorado MUST.

2. Strawberry Park Hot Springs – Rustic & Charming

For a truly secluded, back-to-nature experience, Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs is an absolute gem. This hot spring is famous for its serene, natural setting, with rock-lined pools tucked deep within an aspen and pine forest. The varying pool temperatures allow visitors to find their perfect level of warmth while taking in the crisp mountain air. By day, it's a peaceful escape where you can listen to the sounds of the nearby creek. By night, the springs take on a more intimate, spa-like atmosphere—but fair warning: after dark, it’s clothing optional! For those who want to extend their stay, rustic cabins and unique lodging options like train cabooses and covered wagons are available. 

3. Pagosa Springs – Home to the World’s Deepest Hot Spring

Pagosa Springs boasts the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, measuring at least 1,002 feet deep! This natural wonder feeds multiple hot springs resorts and public soaking areas along the scenic San Juan River, offering a variety of temperatures and settings for visitors. The most famous soaking spot, The Springs Resort & Spa, features over 20 mineral-rich pools, each offering a unique soaking experience with panoramic mountain views. For those who prefer a more natural setting, the free-to-access riverside hot spring pools provide a rustic and budget-friendly way to enjoy the geothermal waters. Whether you’re looking for a high-end spa retreat or a casual soak after an outdoor adventure, Pagosa Springs delivers an unforgettable hot springs experience in one of Colorado’s most scenic mountain towns.

4. Mount Princeton Hot Springs – A Hidden Gem Near Buena Vista

Perched at the base of the towering Collegiate Peaks, Mount Princeton Hot Springs offers one of the most diverse and scenic geothermal experiences in Colorado. Unlike other hot springs, this one features both developed and completely natural soaking options. The historic bathhouse and resort pools offer a spa-like environment with modern amenities, while the famous creekside pools provide a truly unique experience—here, you can relax in steamy mineral water while cool, refreshing river water flows alongside you, creating the perfect temperature balance. For those seeking more than just a soak, the resort offers a full spa, an infinity pool, and even a 400-foot waterslide for families. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or staying in the resort’s cozy cabins, Mount Princeton Hot Springs provides a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking mountain views.

5. Ouray Hot Springs – A Soak with a View

Often referred to as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray’s hot springs offer some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery of any hot spring in the state. Surrounded by towering, snow-capped peaks, this family-friendly hot springs facility provides a range of pools with different temperatures, from warm relaxation pools to cooler, swim-friendly areas. Unlike many hot springs, Ouray’s waters are sulfur-free, meaning you get all the benefits of mineral-rich soaking without the strong odor. After a long day of hiking, ice climbing, or off-roading on the famous Million Dollar Highway, there’s no better way to unwind than in Ouray’s steaming, mountain-view pools. With water slides for kids, lap lanes for exercise, and dedicated hot soaking sections, it’s a hot springs destination that truly has something for everyone.

Relaxation Meets Opportunity

The correlation between natural attractions and real estate appreciation is well-documented. Towns with hot springs tend to attract:

• Tourists and Short-Term Renters: The presence of hot springs fuels short-term rental demand, making these areas lucrative for Airbnb or vacation rental investments.

• Wellness-Oriented Homebuyers: As more people prioritize health and wellness, access to natural hot springs has become a lifestyle asset that influences homebuying decisions.

• Long-Term Growth: Towns with natural attractions like hot springs often see steady property value appreciation due to consistent demand and limited inventory.

For those considering buying in Colorado, proximity to hot springs can serve as both a lifestyle perk and a savvy investment strategy. Whether buying a vacation rental in Steamboat Springs or a permanent residence near Pagosa Springs, the long-term value proposition remains strong. Whether you’re soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Glenwood Springs or enjoying the rustic charm of Strawberry Park, these geothermal gems offer something for everyone.

At Blue Pebble Homes, we’re here to help you navigate Colorado’s real estate market and find the perfect property near these incredible hot springs. From Denver to Glenwood Springs and beyond, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your real estate goals.