Telluride is a charming town in southwestern Colorado, surrounded by the majestic San Juan Mountains. It is well-known for its ski resort, its lively downtown, and its picturesque views. But did you know that Telluride is also close to several amazing hot springs? These natural wonders are the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of outdoor adventure or cultural exploration. Whether you are looking for a luxurious resort, a clothing-optional retreat, or a rustic soak in the wilderness, there is a hot spring near Telluride that will suit your preferences and budget. In this guide, we will introduce you to seven of the best hot springs closest to Telluride, and tell you everything you need to know before you go.

Dunton Hot Springs (31 miles from Telluride)

Dunton Hot Springs is a unique and exclusive resort located in a historic ghost town that dates back to 1885. It offers an all-inclusive experience that includes gourmet meals, unlimited drinks, and access to five different hot spring pools. The pools vary in size and temperature, from 85°F to 106°F, and some of them are located indoors, outdoors, or even inside the cabins. The resort also offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, yoga, spa treatments, and more. You can choose from 13 different cabins, each with its own character and charm. If you want a private pool, book the Well House, which has its own hot spring and a cold plunge bath. If you are traveling with a family or a group, book the New House, which has a king bedroom and a sleeping loft. Dunton Hot Springs is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, the comfort of luxury, and the history of the Old West.

How to get there:

Dunton Hot Springs is located about 31 miles from Telluride, but the drive can take up to an hour and a half depending on the road conditions. You will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to access the resort, especially in winter. You can also arrange a shuttle service with the resort for an extra fee.

How much does it cost:

Dunton Hot Springs is not cheap, but it is worth it for the quality and service you get. The rates vary depending on the season and the cabin you choose, but they start from $1,400 per night for two people. This includes all meals, drinks, activities, and taxes. You can also book a day pass for $175 per person, which includes lunch and access to the pools from 10 am to 4 pm.

What to bring:

You don’t need to bring much to Dunton Hot Springs, as they provide everything you need for your stay. However, you might want to bring some comfortable clothes for lounging around, some hiking shoes for exploring the trails, and some swimsuits for soaking in the pools. You might also want to bring some sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.

Orvis Hot Springs (41 miles from Telluride)

Orvis Hot Springs is a clothing-optional resort that offers a natural and relaxing environment for soaking in mineral-rich waters. It has seven pools that range from 98°F to 114°F, and some of them are indoors, outdoors, or private. The largest pool is called The Pond, and it has a waterfall and a stunning view of Mount Sneffels. The indoor pool has a soothing ambiance with soft music and dim lights. The private tubs are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who want more intimacy. Orvis Hot Springs also has a massage tent where you can book a session with one of their skilled therapists. You can stay overnight at the resort by camping in your tent or RV, or by renting one of their six lodge rooms. Orvis Hot Springs is a place where you can enjoy the freedom of being yourself and connect with nature and other like-minded people.

How to get there:

Orvis Hot Springs is located about 41 miles from Telluride, but the drive can take up to an hour depending on the traffic. You will need to take Highway 145 south from Telluride until you reach Placerville. Then turn left onto Highway 62 east until you reach Ridgway. Then turn right onto Highway 550 south until you see the sign for Orvis Hot Springs on your left.

How much does it cost:

Orvis Hot Springs is more affordable than Dunton Hot Springs, but still not very cheap. The rates vary depending on the season and the day of the week, but they start from $22 per person for a day pass (from 9 am to 10 pm) and $12 per person for a night pass (from 10 pm to 9 am). If you want to stay overnight, you can camp in your tent or RV for $12 per person per night, or rent a lodge room for $90 to $120 per night. The massage sessions cost $80 for an hour or $120 for an hour and a half.

What to bring:

You don’t need to bring much to Orvis Hot Springs, as they provide towels, robes, and lockers for your convenience. However, you might want to bring some flip-flops for walking around, some water and snacks for hydration and energy, and some swimsuits if you are not comfortable with being nude. You might also want to bring some sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa (112 miles from Telluride)

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa is a family-friendly resort that offers a variety of pools and amenities for all ages and preferences. It has 26 pools that range from 85°F to 110°F, and some of them are mineral pools, jetted pools, soaking pools, or family pools. The resort also has a sauna, a steam room, a cold plunge pool, and a lazy river. You can also enjoy a massage or a facial at their spa, or grab a bite at their café. You can stay overnight at the resort by booking one of their cabins, suites, or rooms. Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa is a place where you can have fun and relax with your whole family or friends.

How to get there:

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa is located about 112 miles from Telluride, but the drive can take up to two and a half hours depending on the road conditions. You will need to take Highway 145 south from Telluride until you reach Cortez. Then turn right onto Highway 160 east until you reach Durango. Then turn left onto Highway 550 north until you see the sign for Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa on your right.

How much does it cost:

Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa is more expensive than Orvis Hot Springs, but cheaper than Dunton Hot Springs. The rates vary depending on the season and the day of the week, but they start from $25 per person for a day pass (from 9 am to 9 pm) and $15 per person for a night pass (from 9 pm to 11 pm). If you want to stay overnight, you can book a cabin for $175 to $225 per night, a suite for $125 to $175 per night, or a room for $75 to $125 per night. The massage and facial services cost $85 to $165 depending on the type and duration.

What to bring:

You don’t need to bring much to Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa, as they provide towels and lockers for your convenience. However, you might want to bring some swimsuits for soaking in the pools, some water and snacks for hydration and energy, and some change for the vending machines. You might also want to bring some sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.

Other Hot Springs Near Telluride

In addition to the three resorts mentioned above, there are also some other hot springs near Telluride that are worth checking out. These are more rustic and remote than the resorts, and may require some hiking or driving on dirt roads to access them. However, they are also more natural and scenic than the resorts, and may offer more privacy and solitude. Here are four of them:

• Ouray Hot Springs Pool (50 miles from Telluride): This is a large public pool that is fed by natural hot springs. It has several sections with different temperatures and features, such as slides, diving boards, lap lanes, and shallow areas. It is open year-round and costs $18 per person for adults and $12 per person for children.
• Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings (51 miles from Telluride): This is a small resort that offers three hot spring pools: an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a vapor cave. The vapor cave is a unique underground chamber that is filled with steam and mineral water. It is open year-round and costs $25 per person for adults and $15 per person for children.
• Conundrum Hot Springs (75 miles from Telluride): This is a natural hot spring that is located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. It has two pools that are surrounded by stunning mountain views. It is only accessible by hiking about 8.5 miles one way on a moderate trail. It is open year-round and free of charge.
• Piedra River Hot Springs (97 miles from Telluride): This is a natural hot spring that is located along the Piedra River. It has several pools that vary in size and temperature depending on the river level. It is only accessible

FAQs

• Does Colorado have any hot springs? Yes, Colorado has many hot springs, both natural and man-made, that offer a variety of experiences for visitors. Some of the hot springs are located in historic towns, resorts, or wilderness areas, while others are more secluded and rustic. Colorado’s hot springs are known for their health benefits, scenic views, and relaxing atmosphere.
• Why are there so many hot springs in Colorado? Colorado has so many hot springs because of its geology and geography. The Rocky Mountains act as a natural filter for rain and snow that falls on the peaks and seeps into the ground. As the water travels deeper into the earth, it heats up from the geothermal energy and dissolves minerals along the way. The water then rises to the surface through cracks or faults in the rocks, forming hot springs. Colorado has many such faults and cracks, especially in the southwest region where Telluride is located.
• How do you get to Piedra River hot springs? Piedra River hot springs are a set of natural pools along the Piedra River, about 17 miles south of Pagosa Springs. To get there from Telluride, you need to drive about 3 hours on Highway 145 and Highway 160. Once you reach Pagosa Springs, take Piedra Road (CR 600) south for about 16 miles until you see a sign for First Fork Road (CR 622). Turn right and follow the road for about a mile until you reach a parking area. From there, you need to hike about half a mile along the river until you reach the hot springs.
• How many hot springs are in Colorado? There is no definitive answer to how many hot springs are in Colorado, as some of them may be undiscovered, inaccessible, or privately owned. However, according to Colorado Hot Springs Guide, there are at least 47 public hot springs in the state, ranging from large resorts to primitive pools. Some of the most popular ones include Glenwood Springs, Strawberry Park, Mount Princeton, and Pagosa Springs.