Traveling north from Durango to Silverton on Highway 550, you will pass Pinkerton Hot Springs about 12 miles from town on the east side of the highway. While this spring is a scenic spot only, and not available for soaking, the natural formation makes it a fun stop along your drive.
Pinkerton Hot Springs History
Hot springs are formed deep under the Earth’s surface where water is heated by magma and rises through fissures, creating formations such as geysers, mud pits, and springs. This spring was discovered in the late 1800s and was built up to the shape you see today. However, the original cement has since changed colors due to the calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate in the hot geothermal waters that typically sit around 100 degrees.
Once upon a time, there was a resort just below the current structure for soaking that burnt down. Nowadays, the kaleidoscopic colors and interesting formation make this a great sightseeing stop. Be careful around the formation as the ground can be slippery and marshy.
Nearby Hot Springs
Surrounded by other naturally occurring hot springs, Durango Hot Springs Resort, Pagosa Hot Springs Resort, Ouray Hot Springs, and others all offer luxury experiences to relax in pools overflowing with healing mineral waters. There are many other natural hot springs throughout the region, including along the Piedra River, San Juan River, and the Dolores River.
Southwest Colorado is full of natural surprises! Please let us know if you have questions about our area’s history, offerings, and real estate.
