Colorado is a prime destination for natural hot springs, bringing tourists from near and far to experience one of the state’s unique environmental features. The hot springs result from the diverse landscape that hosts these geothermal baths. They are a great way to relax after a long adventure, relax, and heal your body and soul. The one contentious thing about Colorado’s hot springs is the difficulty in accessibility, so many choose to go with a tour guide in order to get the safest, best experience. In this blog, you’ll find various recommendations Aspire has compiled for the best hot springs in Colorado.
Top Hot Springs in Colorado
1. Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs)
These hot springs are rustic and secluded, offering a natural setting surrounded by pine forests. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is known for its serene atmosphere and scenic beauty. Some of its unique features include time periods (after dark, usually) dedicated to clothing, optional bathing, stone pools, and camping options. With a guide, you’ll have the security of safe access, especially in winter conditions. You’ll also learn from a guide about the area’s geology and history.
2. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort (Glenwood Springs)
Glenwood Springs is one of Colorado's largest and most famous hot springs resorts. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a large, Olympic-sized pool, water slides, and multiple easily accessible spa facilities. One of the benefits of visiting these hot springs with a guide is education and insider knowledge: get to know the optimal times to see, the history of the springs, and nearby attractions.
3. The Springs Resort and Spa (Pagosa Springs)
Pagosa Springs is a luxury hot springs resort featuring over 20 mineral pools with varying temperatures. It’s located in a picturesque mountain setting, known for its wellness-focused amenities and riverfront views. With a guide, you’ll maximize your experience with insider tips on the best pools and spa treatments and a safety net to explore nearby hiking trails.
4. Conundrum Hot Springs (Near Aspen)
This is a remote and tough destination to get to, requiring a hike through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Such an exciting and likely tiring adventure will ensure your arrival at the Conundrum Hot Springs is a rewarding one, with stunning views of the alpine forest as you finally sink into the hot natural mineral waters. It’s a pristine, natural setting, with high elevation levels contributing to the breathtaking, untouched natural scenery. A guide is highly recommended for this hot spring, as the terrain in the Snowmass Wilderness is unpredictable and challenging to navigate if you’ve never done the hike before. The environment is delicate, and a guide will teach you how to preserve the flora and fauna you might encounter.
Why a Guide is Essential for Visiting Colorado’s Hot Springs
1. Safety and Navigations
Guides provide essential knowledge on how to safely access remote and potentially hazardous hot springs, especially in winter. The benefits of exploring with a guide far outweigh the cons: you’ll be more likely to avoid accidents when you understand trail conditions, and it’s always better to have a professional in the vicinity to assist if there’s an emergency.
2. Local Knowledge and History
A guide enhances the experience by sharing local legends, history, and geological information about the hot springs. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the springs’ cultural and natural significance, adding to the experience as a whole.
3. Customizing the Experience
Guides can tailor the trip to your interests, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both. You’ll be able to personalize your itineraries, gain exclusive access to lesser-known springs, and get recommendations for nearby attractions and dining. Who knows, you might even make a new friend!
.png)
