It’s hard to beat a hot spring with a natural vibe, allowing the opportunity to connect with nature in a relaxing way.

Here’s a list of a few hot spring destinations found around Colorado that have a rugged feel – some found in nature and others found at hot spring resorts:

1. Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Iron Mountain Hot Springs is a mineral hot springs destination in Glenwood Springs that sits on the bank of the Colorado River. This hot springs includes geothermal pools, ‘world experience’ pools, a freshwater family pool, a jetted spa, a bathhouse with luxury shower products, cafes, and bars.

2. Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves

You’ll head down a staircase and through a stone corridor in Glenwood Springs to get to Yampah Spa and Vapor Cave’s natural underground hot mineral water steam baths, where 125 degree mineral waters flow through the cave floors. The slab marble benches in rocky alcoves in the warm, dimly lit cave chambers also contribute to the natural, soothing feel of these hot springs. Yampah also offers health and beauty treatments including massage, facials, herbal body treatments, private natural mineral baths, and salon services.

3. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

These natural geothermal hot springs pools are located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and offer great mountain views. The resort includes pools that range in temperatures from 70 to 120 degrees. Guests can enjoy a historic bath house, traditional hot spring pools, and an infinity pool – but those looking for something more rugged and natural will also love the creekside pool options

The Creekside Hot Springs are located in Chalk Creek. These springs are included in the day pass for Mount Princeton. Circles of stone surround the pools of 140 degree water, and you can combine those springs with Chalk Creek’s cool waters to create a rather unique experience.

4. Conundrum Hot Springs

This is one of Colorado’s most remote hot springs, as getting there means a 17-mile round trip adventure into the Rocky Mountains. The springs are all only accessible by a rugged hike up Conundrum Creek Trail. However, visitors will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding Aspen wilderness. Remember, when visiting this destination, always follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles. Camp where allowed and with a permit and always dispose of all waste properly.

5. Valley View Hot Springs

This clothing-optional nature sanctuary features all natural, body temperature soaking ponds along wilderness trails, a geothermally, and hydroelectrically heated hot tub, sauna, and village, a natural spring-fed swimming pool and showers, and all-season camping and rustic accommodations.

6. Strawberry Park Hot Springs

Strawberry Park Hot Springs in the Steamboat Springs area offers hot springs that blend the environment’s natural beauty with thermal pools and unique stone masonry. This spot also consists of generous outdoor areas, open-air pools, and lots of stunning Colorado views.

7. Joyful Journey Hot Springs 

As well as pool filled with natural, mineral-rich geothermically heated water, this hot spring destination includes relaxing massage therapies and a peaceful spa. And it’s in a setting that features the Sangre de Cristo mountain range in the distance.

8. Cottonwood Hot Springs

This hot springs is located in the high mountain ecosystem area of the Collegiate Peaks Range and surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest. In addition to natural hot springs, this spot offers a variety of spa treatments, and is located close to picturesque Buena Vista.

9. Rainbow Hot Springs

Primitive and isolated, this mineral hot springs involves a hike into the secluded Weminuche Wilderness Area. Visitors can expect to be treated with exceptional views, soaking along the side of the San Juan River. Remember, always ‘Leave No Trace.’

10. The Springs Resort and Spa

Located on the banks of the San Juan River, this resort includes 25 hot springs pools, with a range of temperatures and sizes. According to their website, “this is a place of vitality and profound renewal… a natural hot springs destination in one of Colorado’s most picturesque mountain towns, where wide-open spaces and room to breathe come naturally.”

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