Hot Springs Near Denver: A Guide to the Best Thermal Pools in Colorado

Colorado is a state blessed with natural wonders, from majestic mountains to stunning canyons. But one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating attractions in the Centennial State are its hot springs. These mineral-rich waters are heated by geothermal activity and offer a variety of health benefits, such as soothing sore muscles, improving blood circulation, and reducing stress.

If you are looking for a hot springs getaway near Denver, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you want a rustic experience in the wilderness or a luxurious resort with spa services, there is a hot springs destination for you. In this guide, we will introduce you to the best hot springs near Denver, along with their features, prices, and distances from the Mile High City.

Indian Hot Springs

Indian Hot Springs is the closest hot springs to Denver, located in the historic town of Idaho Springs. This resort has been operating since 1905 and features a variety of soaking options, including a large indoor pool under a tropical dome, private indoor baths, outdoor jacuzzis, and men’s and women’s geothermal caves. The water temperature ranges from 90°F to 112°F depending on the pool.

Indian Hot Springs also offers spa services, such as massages, facials, and body wraps. You can also enjoy the Club Mud, where you can cover yourself in mineral-rich mud for an exfoliating and detoxifying experience. If you want to stay overnight, you can book a room at the hotel or a cabin on the property.

  • Admission: $35 for adults, $30 for children and seniors on weekdays; $40 for adults, $30 for children and seniors on weekends
  • Distance from Denver: 33 miles (40 minutes)
  • Features: indoor pool, private baths, outdoor jacuzzis, geothermal caves, spa services, Club Mud, lodging
  • Website: Indian Hot Springs

Strawberry Park Hot Springs

Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the most popular and scenic hot springs near Denver, nestled in the Routt National Forest near Steamboat Springs. This rustic resort offers a natural setting with stone-lined pools surrounded by trees and mountains. The water temperature varies from 102°F to 106°F depending on the pool.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs is family-friendly during the day, but after dark it becomes an adults-only destination with clothing optional policy. You can also book a massage or a watsu session (a form of aquatic therapy) at the spa. For overnight stays, you can choose from camping spots, cabins, or wagons on the property.

  • Admission: $20 per person for 2 hours (cash only)
  • Distance from Denver: 156 miles (3 hours)
  • Features: natural pools, clothing optional evenings, spa services, camping spots, cabins, wagons
  • Website: Strawberry Park Hot Springs

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is a high-end hot springs resort near Buena Vista that offers something for everyone. You can soak in the mineral waters along Chalk Creek, where you can adjust the temperature by moving rocks. You can also enjoy the main pool with a 400-foot water slide, the infinity pool with stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks, or the relaxation pool with cascading hot water.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort also has a full-service spa that offers massages, facials, body treatments, and more. You can also join fitness classes or yoga sessions at the wellness center. For dining options, you can visit the Princeton Club Restaurant or the Juice Bar. For lodging options, you can stay at the hotel rooms, cabins, or vacation homes on site.

  • Admission: $35 for adults, $30 for children and seniors on weekdays; $40 for adults, $30 for children and seniors on weekends
  • Distance from Denver: 120 miles (2 hours)
  • Features: creekside pools, main pool with water slide, infinity pool, relaxation pool, spa services, fitness classes, juice bar, lodging
  • Website: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

FAQs

  • Does Denver have a hot springs?

Denver does not have a natural hot springs within the city limits, but there are several options for soaking in mineral water within a short drive from the Mile High City. Some of the closest hot springs to Denver are Indian Hot Springs1, Eldorado Springs Pool2, and SunWater Spa3.

  • Does Colorado have any hot springs?

Colorado has over 30 natural hot springs scattered across the state, ranging from rustic and remote to luxurious and resort-style. Some of the most popular hot springs in Colorado are Glenwood Hot Springs4, Strawberry Park Hot Springs5, and Mount Princeton Hot Springs3.

  • How hot is the Colorado hot spring?

The temperature of the Colorado hot springs varies depending on the source, location, and season. Generally, the water temperature ranges from 90°F to 120°F, but some hot springs can be hotter or cooler. For example, Indian Hot Springs has a main pool heated to between 90°F and 100°F, and geothermal caves with baths heated between 104°F and 112°F1Strawberry Park Hot Springs has pools with temperatures ranging from 102°F to 106°F5.

  • What is the largest hot spring in Colorado?

The largest hot spring in Colorado is Glenwood Hot Springs, which boasts the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. The pool measures over two blocks long and contains more than a million gallons of water. The pool is divided into two sections: a large swimming area with a temperature of around 93°F, and a smaller therapy pool with a temperature of around 104°F4.

 

About the author

Vu Tuan Tran is a passionate camping enthusiast with over 20 years of experience. He has camped in all kinds of terrain and is an expert in setting up tents, cooking over campfires, and finding the best spots to stargaze. He is also a skilled photographer who loves capturing the beauty of the natural world. If you are looking for a camping partner who is knowledgeable, experienced, and fun-loving, then Vu is your guy.

Leave a Comment