The Happiness Function

Colorado is known for its amazing scenery, majestic mountains, and pristine wilderness. But did you know that the Centennial State is also home to dozens of hot springs?

If you’re looking to take a relaxing soak surrounded by natural beauty, here are the best hot springs to visit — you don’t have to hike to any of these. We use to live in Colorado, and I’m sharing our favorites.

Ouray Hot Springs, Ouray

Bask in the mountain air and enjoy the quaint mountain town hailed as “Little Switzerland.” The Ouray Hot Springs sit in a valley surrounded by mountains.

The facility was renovated in the last few years. The grounds have a cold swimming pool for laps, another cold pool with a bouldering area, and large shallow warm and hot soaking areas. There are soothing waterfalls — and a slide for the kids.

The locker rooms have showers and there is a snack bar.

While soaking, you might even get views of Mt. Sneffels, a 14,000+ foot mountain in the Ouray area, if it is not hiding behind the clouds.

Orvis Hot Springs, Ridgway

Orvis Hot Springs is just south of Ridgway on the way into Ouray. This facility has a more natural feel with different pools to choose from. What makes this place unique is that it is a clothing optional facility.

A massive privacy fence surrounds the property so you’re safe from the outside world. It is romantic and relaxing to visit in the dark and during the winter when the pools are steaming.

Orvis also has a camping area if you are looking for a unique place to camp. What I love about camping here is that you have longer access to the hot springs than guests who are not spending the night at the property.

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is home to one of Colorado’s most well-known hot springs pools just off I-70. The facility sits in the valley where the natural hot water is piped right out of the mountain.

The Glenwood area is a gateway to Aspen. Need a soak after hiking all day in the wilderness or après skiing and snowboarding in Aspen? This is your place.

The facility has hot springs soaking areas along with a regular pool — the pool even has a diving board.

It is the perfect activity to add to your weekend adventure. This place is adult (and kid) friendly.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Glenwood Springs

Another fabulous place to soak and relax in Glenwood Springs is at Iron Mountain. It’s adult only area, WorldSprings, opened in 2023 attracting those looking for a romantic weekend for two.

The adults only area has 13 pools overlooking the Colorado River.

If you’re hanging out in Glenwood for a few days, you might also enjoy hiking the Hanging Lake Trail.

The Springs Resort and Spa, Pagosa Springs

The Springs Resort and Spa is in Southwest Colorado in the town of Pagosa Springs. Pagosa tends to have fewer crowds since it is further from the Denver metro area.

What I thought was cool about soaking here were the mineral rock chunks along with the lazy river. Visiting is a great activity to do year-round in this part of the state. It’s also soothing to soak après ski after a day at Wolf Creek.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Steamboat Springs

Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a local favorite of Steamboat. Whether it is during the summer or winter, soaking at Strawberry is an excellent idea to add to your next weekend getaway. You’ll find locals and visitors alike relaxing and unwinding in the pools.

Things To Know Before You Go

When visiting the hot springs, you’ll want to bring the essentials, such as: bathing suits, towels, hats, sunglasses, and sandals. I also like to pack my showering toilet tries, a hairbrush, and a change of clothes.

Don’t forget to bring quarters for the lockers and leave valuables at home.

All of these destinations have places to park your car easily.

Featured Image Credit: urban_light/Depositphotos.com.