There’s nothing quite like a Colorado hot springs trip. Whether you’re soaking creekside with snow falling around you, unwinding after a ski day, or planning a relaxing weekend escape, hot springs are one of the best ways to experience the state year-round.
From developed resort pools to rustic, off-the-grid soaking spots, Colorado offers a wide range of hot springs within a few hours’ drive of Denver. Below is a guide to some of the most popular and well-loved hot springs destinations, including drive time from Denver, typical pricing, and nearby lodging options to help you plan your trip.
Idaho Springs
Drive time from Denver: ~45 minutes
If you’re looking for a hot springs experience without committing to a full mountain weekend, Idaho Springs is the closest option to Denver and an easy half-day or overnight escape.
Indian Hot Springs
One of Colorado’s oldest hot springs destinations, Indian Hot Springs features geothermal pools, private mineral baths, and a large indoor swimming pool housed under a glass dome.
Pricing typically ranges from $30–$40 for adults, depending on access and time of visit.
Where to stay:
Indian Hot Springs offers on-site hotel rooms for the most convenient stay. Additional lodging options are available in Idaho Springs or nearby Georgetown for a quieter mountain-town feel.
Glenwood Springs
Drive time from Denver: ~2.5–3 hours
Glenwood Springs is Colorado’s most iconic hot springs destination and one of the easiest to reach from Denver. With large pools, walkable downtown access, and plenty of lodging, it’s a great option for families and first-time visitors.
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool
Home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool, this historic destination offers a massive soaking area plus a smaller therapy pool.
Pricing typically ranges from $35–$50 for adults, depending on the season and time of day.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs
A more modern experience featuring multiple small pools terraced along the Colorado River, each set to a different temperature.
Expect pricing around $40–$50 per adult.
Where to stay:
Downtown Glenwood Springs hotels are walkable to both pools, while nearby resorts and vacation rentals offer riverfront and mountain-view options.
Pagosa Springs
Drive time from Denver: ~5 hours
Pagosa Springs is a true hot springs destination, known for its rich geothermal waters and charming mountain-town vibe. It’s a great option if you’re looking to turn your soak into a full weekend (or longer) getaway.
The Springs Resort & Spa
Home to the famous Mother Spring — the deepest geothermal hot spring in the world — The Springs Resort & Spa offers more than 45 mineral soaking pools along the San Juan River, ranging from warm and relaxing to hot and steamy. Day passes are available, and overnight guests enjoy 24-hour access to the pools.
Pricing typically ranges from $50–$80 for day passes, depending on day and access level.
Where to stay:
The Springs Resort & Spa offers on-site hotel rooms and suites with direct pool access, making it the most convenient option. Pagosa Springs also has a variety of nearby inns, hotels, and vacation rentals if you want more flexibility while staying close to the action.
Ouray & Ridgway
Drive time from Denver: ~5.5–6 hours
Often called the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is tucked into a dramatic box canyon surrounded by waterfalls and towering peaks. The area combines family-friendly soaking with quieter, adults-only options nearby.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool
A large, sulfur-free municipal pool complex with multiple soaking areas, lap lanes, and kid-friendly sections. Open year-round.
Pricing generally falls between $18–$25.
Orvis Hot Springs (Ridgway)
Located about 15 minutes north of Ouray, Orvis offers a more rustic, adults-only experience. It’s clothing-optional and known for its peaceful setting.
Day soaking typically costs $40–$45.
Where to stay:
Ouray offers charming inns and boutique hotels near the pools, while Ridgway has cabins and lodges convenient to Orvis and surrounding outdoor recreation.
Steamboat Springs
Drive time from Denver: ~3.5–4 hours
Steamboat Springs blends ski-town energy with two very different hot springs experiences, making it a great choice for winter trips or summer mountain getaways.
Old Town Hot Springs
Located right in downtown Steamboat, Old Town features multiple soaking pools, waterslides, and fitness facilities. It’s especially popular with families.
Pricing is typically $20–$30, depending on access.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Set in a scenic mountain canyon outside town, Strawberry Park offers stone-lined pools and a rustic, natural atmosphere. Clothing is optional after dark.
Soaking generally costs around $20 per person, cash only.
Where to stay:
Downtown Steamboat hotels offer easy access to dining and Old Town Hot Springs, while Strawberry Park has limited on-site cabins and nearby vacation rentals.
Buena Vista & Salida
Drive time from Denver: ~2.5–3 hours
The Arkansas River Valley is one of Colorado’s best regions for hot springs, offering several distinct soaking experiences within a short drive of each other.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort (Nathrop)
Known for its creekside hot springs, Mount Princeton allows guests to soak where hot water naturally mixes with cold mountain creek water.
Day pass pricing usually ranges from $30–$45, depending on access and amenities.
Cottonwood Hot Springs (Buena Vista)
A quieter, no-frills hot springs known for its large soaking pool and mountain views.
Expect pricing around $30 per adult.
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center
One of the largest hot springs pools in the country, this facility offers lap pools, leisure pools, and family-friendly soaking.
Pricing typically falls between $15–$20.
Where to stay:
Buena Vista and Salida both offer a mix of lodges, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. Mount Princeton also has on-site rooms and cabins for easy access.
Durango Area
Drive time from Denver: ~6.5–7 hours
Durango is a true hot springs hub, pairing modern resort soaking with nearby primitive, hike-in options for more adventurous travelers.
Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa
A contemporary facility with multiple mineral pools, varying temperatures, and a relaxed spa atmosphere.
Day soaking usually costs $35–$45.
Piedra River Hot Springs
A primitive, hike-in hot springs experience located north of Durango. This option is undeveloped and best for experienced hikers.
Soaking is free, but access depends on weather and trail conditions.
Where to stay:
Downtown Durango offers the most lodging and dining options, while cabins and vacation rentals provide a quieter base for exploring nearby springs.
Choosing the Right Colorado Hot Springs
Colorado’s hot springs range from easy-access resort pools to remote, natural soaking spots. When planning your trip, consider drive time, season, comfort level, and whether you’re traveling with kids or looking for a quieter, adults-only experience.
No matter which direction you head, a hot springs getaway is one of the best ways to slow down and enjoy Colorado’s mountain lifestyle — and every one of these destinations makes a strong case for getting out of Denver and hitting the road.
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