Hot springs are a naturally occurring resource and offer a great way to relax! After skiing or playing in the mountain, or just a nice activity in itself, these pools offer various temperatures and healing minerals. In Southwest Colorado, we are lucky that these pools are not uncommon and easily accessible with many accommodations.
Durango Hot Springs
Once Trimble Hot Springs, Durango Hot Springs is less than 10 miles north of downtown Durango. The history can be traced back to the early 1880s, and even further back to when the Ancient Puebloans used the natural resource, however it underwent its most recent change in ownership and renovation in 2019. This change added over 22 soaking pools, a resort-style swimming pool, and 5 private Ofuro tubs. There are 32 distinct minerals in the water which are all said to have healing properties. Alkalinity, lithium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and calcium are amongst the properties that promote health in different ways. They also use an AquaGen system which adds an effervescence to some of the pools. Typical temperatures range from 99-112 degrees fahrenheit, but there are also cold plunges which add additional benefits.
There are family-friendly pools, and the western slope is dedicated to adults only with a more serene and relaxing environment. Spa treatments such as massages and facials are available on site as well. There is a concession stand serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages accompanied by food trucks for a quick bite. Occasionally Durango Hot Springs hosts live music and other events to enjoy during your soak. If you forgot something like a bathing suit, towel, robe, sunscreen, or chapstick, they offer a variety of items for sale in the lobby. Day passes, frequency cards, punch passes, and annual passes are available to enjoy the facilities.
Just minutes from downtown, Durango Hot Springs is about 20 miles south of Purgatory Ski Resort so you can reap the benefits and relaxing qualities of the hot water after a long day on the slopes. Dalton Ranch Golf Club is less than a mile away and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad train passes by just across Hwy 550.
The Springs Resort
A little over an hour drive from Durango to the east, you’ll find The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs, CO. This resort offers 25 therapeutic pools to enjoy. Boasting the world’s deepest geothermal hot springs as their water source, temperatures range from 45 - 114 degrees creating cold plunges and lobster pots. The pools overflow into the San Juan River which borders the west side of the property and enhances the ambiance.
Additional amenities include a spa, Barefoot Grille, The Canteen, a cafe, goldfish pond, and direct river access. On site lodging opens up more soaking pools and 24/7 access. A boutique shop, locker rooms, and towel rentals will prepare you for a great visit.
Don’t miss out on everything else Pagosa has to offer while you're there! Wolf Creek Ski Area is nearby for some of the best winter ski conditions in Colorado. There is a cute downtown area and the town offers a unique variety of restaurants and shops to choose from as well.
There are plenty of other hot springs to explore, both resort style and off the beaten path. From Glenwood Springs to Mt.Princeton and Sheep Creek to Chattanooga Springs, Colorado hot springs are a fun and unique thing to experience. Please contact The Durango Team at The Wells Group for more local information.
