I love hot springs, relaxing lands of smoking water and tranquility. Colorado’s hot springs offer a fun escape. I’ve visited several across the state of smoking water, each with its own character and experience. Hot springs in Colorado provide warmth and relaxation, whether tucked in the mountains or part of a resort. In this article, I’ll guide you through the list of amazing hot springs I visited.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Glenwood Hot Springs had a mix of visitors—families, couples, and solo travelers like me. I stepped into the massive pool, where water ranges from a therapeutic 104 degrees to a soothing 90-93 degrees. It was an easy place to lose track of time there. If you are an adventurer, visit Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, where natural steam-filled caves create a unique and therapeutic experience. The Utes once believed these caves had healing properties, making them a fascinating and relaxing retreat from the winter cold. The town is very pretty, especially during the night. However, I didn’t have enough time to ride the gondola.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs had intrigued me from the start—its name alone made me picture something out of a storybook. The drive up a rugged, winding road only added to the anticipation. When I arrived, I found a series of beautifully crafted stone pools, nestled among aspen and pine trees. The mineral-rich waters, known for their soothing and muscle-relaxing properties, ranged from steaming hot to refreshingly cool. I moved between them, feeling the tension melt away. As the sun set, the steam rose against the twilight, and the atmosphere became almost meditative—just the sound of flowing water and quiet conversations drifting through the crisp mountain air.
SunWater Spa, Manitou Springs
I arrived in Manitou Springs on a cool morning, ready to soak. SunWater Spa had cedar tubs filled with steaming mineral water. After the soak, I joined a fun yoga session and tried a cold plunge. It was refreshing, though shocking at first. After a few hours, I left feeling lighter and more relaxed. Also, the view was very nice.
Beyond The Hot Spring
Beyond the spa, the town had a charm that was hard to ignore. Manitou Springs had small art galleries, coffee shops with mountain views, and hiking trails that led to stunning overlooks. Something about the slow pace, the friendly people, and the crisp mountain air made me think I could live here. Over lunch at a local café, I struck up a conversation with a longtime resident who had moved there years ago for the same reasons I was now considering. When I mentioned the idea of relocating, they immediately shared tips on how to find reliable movers in the area and how they had helped them settle in. The idea lingered in my mind as I wandered through the town. Maybe one day, I’d return—not just as a visitor but as a local.
Dunton Hot Springs
Dunton Hot Springs felt like stepping into a different world. Hidden in a remote valley deep in the San Juan Mountains, this beautifully restored ghost town had an exclusive, almost surreal charm. Originally a 19th-century mining town, it was transformed into a luxury retreat while preserving its historic character. The natural hot springs, rich in minerals like calcium bicarbonate and iron, were known for their ability to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
The experience here was different from other hot springs in Colorado. While some locations attracted large crowds, Dunton was a secluded retreat, limited to a small number of guests. The resort also featured farm-to-table dining, guided hikes, and spa treatments, making it more than just a place to soak.
Along with Manitou Springs, Dunton became one of my favorite stops. While Manitou had a lively, artsy energy, Dunton offered solitude and relaxation. Both had their own magic, but here, in the quiet of the mountains, I felt completely at peace. This place will get you thinking about relocating to the mountains, but I would prefer to live in Manitou Springs. Nevertheless, it is among my top 2 visits to Colorado.
Ouray Hot Springs
Ouray Hot Springs had a different vibe—it was livelier and more social. Families splashed in the larger pools, kids played in the designated shallow areas, and groups of friends lounged in the warm water. But for those seeking true relaxation, there were dedicated soaking pools with higher temperatures, exactly where I ended up. The mineral-rich water, free of the strong sulfur scent in some hot springs, was naturally heated and circulated through several pools, each offering a different level of warmth.
Beyond just soaking, the hot springs facility had lap lanes for swimming, a water slide for kids, and a fitness center. There were also shaded picnic areas, making it a great spot for spending an entire day. The stunning mountain backdrop added to the experience, with the San Juan peaks towering above, giving the entire place an almost cinematic quality. It is a great place for families with kids.
Hot Springs Etiquette I Learned on My Trip
Spending time in different hot springs in Colorado taught me a few important unwritten rules. First, rinsing off before entering the water is a must—it helps keep the pools clean and free of lotions or sunscreen. Conversations should be kept at a respectful volume, especially in more peaceful soaking areas where people go to unwind. Many hot springs have a clothing-optional policy in certain sections, so respecting others’ comfort levels is key. I also learned that soaking for too long, especially in hotter pools, isn’t a great idea—taking breaks and staying hydrated is essential. Lastly, pack out everything you bring (even biodegradable products) at more natural or remote springs) helps keep these beautiful places pristine. Following these simple guidelines made my experiences even more enjoyable and ensured everyone could comfortably relax.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Hot Springs in Colorado for You
Hot springs in Colorado offer something for everyone. Some are lively; others are remote and quiet. My journey through these hot springs introduced me to different relaxing and recharging methods. Some days were about adventure—driving up rugged mountain roads to reach Strawberry Park or stepping into the mysterious steam-filled caves of Yampah. Other days were about stillness—soaking under the stars at Dunton or feeling completely at ease in the cedar tubs of Manitou Springs. Each soak had its rhythm, and each destination left me with a lasting memory.
About the author:
Anne Smith, a passionate traveler and moving consultant at Spyder Moving Denver, has always loved discovering places that offer both relaxation and adventure. When she visited Manitou Springs, she instantly loved its charm. The stunning landscapes, healing mineral springs, and welcoming community made her realize she wanted to call it home. Thanks to her expertise in relocation, she used her company’s services to make the move—proving firsthand how life-changing the right destination can be.
.” The fourth in the series will be on tour to Newfoundland in 2013. Owner of LoveToGo Writing she can be reached in Powell River, BC at 
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