- States:
- Colorado
In Colorado, it’s easy to find plenty of outdoor adventure and opportunities for relaxation with over 1,200 kilometers of the Historic Hot Springs Loop.
Located in western Colorado, the loop is home to some of the world’s most remarkable hot springs and lots of nearby activities. In the summer, take advantage of the hundreds of kilometers of trails in the sprawling national parks, perfect for hiking and biking. Or, watch the landscape turn into a winter wonderland while skiing, ice climbing or snowmobiling. Whatever you choose, there are plenty of exciting experiences in this gorgeous state.
Chaffee County: Hot Springs in the Mountains
If arriving from Denver, it’s a 2.5-hour drive to Chaffee County, which is our first stop on the Historic Hot Springs Loop. The communities of Buena Vista, Nathrop and Salida are all located on mountainous terrain, which provides a stunning backdrop for their hot springs. Relax in the country’s largest indoor hot spring pool at Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center. Or, soak in natural geothermal pools at the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort and Cottonwood Hot Springs.
Sunset over the relaxation pool at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Saguache County: Outdoor Recreational Paradise
Two hours south is Saguache County, a scenic region framed by the majestic San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountains. One of the least populated places in Colorado, the region boasts plenty of wide open spaces for outdoor activities along with a diverse slate of attractions: Hike and sandboard at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, encounter reptiles at Colorado Gators, sightsee at historical sites along the Old Spanish Trail and more. You'll find no shortage of springs amid the stunning scenery, like Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa, Sand Dunes Swimming Pool, Splashland Hot Springs and Valley View Hot Springs.
Pool overlooking the Sangre de Cristo mountains at Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa
Pagosa Springs: Spas and Activities Downtown
Three hours southwest, the pools in Pagosa Springs are used for rest and relaxation, as well as a heating source for some of the downtown shops and businesses, like the Riff Raff Brewing Company — offering “Earth-powered” craft beer. The mother spring, known as the “World’s Deepest,” supplies the mineral pools at Overlook Hot Springs Spa, Healing Waters Resort and The Springs Resort, which offers visitors a choice of 23 pools at varying temperatures and sizes. To cool down, take advantage of Wolf Creek Ski Area’s highest snowfall in Colorado, less than half an hour from downtown.
Panoramic views of The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs
Durango: Where Modern Meets Old West
In Durango, taking a trip back in time is as easy as strolling past Victorian architecture along Main Avenue or boarding the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge, a scenic steam train tour. Adventurers will find plenty to enjoy year-round, with an abundance of opportunities for learning and outdoor recreation at nearby Mesa Verde National Park and the San Juan National Forest. Travel eight miles north of downtown to relax at Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa, where the Animas Valley makes a picture-perfect backdrop for days spend lounging in a pool or exploring nearby natural wonders.