Having spent years trying all the best therapeutic hot springs Colorado has to offer, I can report that some of the more spectacular soaking locations in this state are its Boulder area mineral lakes and saunas. Whether you are taking a half-day or weekend break from Boulder, here is 8 natural oasis worth visiting. Whether you seek healing mineral waters or just a peaceful mountain retreat, I’ve put together my top three hot springs destinations that are all not too far of a drive from Boulder.
Eldorado Springs Pool 8.7 miles
Located a mere 15 minutes away from downtown Boulder via car, Eldorado Springs Pool is the most convenient natural swimming hole in this list. This iconic water-filled pit, where artesian spring water from the Eldorado Springs aquifer has been gushing in and enticing all comers since 1905. The crystal clear water will be a chilly 76-80°F all year round which is ideal for the hot summer days, and yes you know there will still be some that freeze their brains.
This area is home to the much more dramatically situated mouth of Eldorado Canyon. Swim among the soaring sandstone and swirling South Boulder Creek. There are changing rooms and picnic spots, as well as room to drop your towel here. The pool also has a depth of 4 to 8 feet, so it is perfect for families with kids in addition to serious lap swimmers.
When making a trip, I suggest coming early especially on weekends as the pool can be very crowded in summer (Memorial king day to Labor Day!!!). The pool is constantly topped up with spring water — it flows in and out of the river, again keeping a natural balance going so there are no harsh chemicals required. Though not technically a “hot spring,” thanks to its mineral pathogen water and picture-perfect locale, Norris is an absolute must on any Boulder natural swimmer’s list.
Indian Hot Springs (39 Miles)
In Idaho Springs, and only 39 miles from Boulder was our historic gem – Indian Hot Springs. Our special city, a perfect fusion of history turned modern rest and relaxation. Native Americans have used the site for healing mineral waters. Today, it is a resort destination with multiple ways for soaking.
One end of the main indoor pool has a striking glass-domed roof surrounded by lush greenery. Temperatures in the water are at a consistent 90-100°F making this an optimal soaking environment. The area has a tropical feel and if you stand in the middle of it all,its hard to remember that youre on Colorado. Youll feel like in a hot paradise, even if its snowy winter season.
These are the geo-thermal cave baths that carves into mountains. The caves get up to 112 degrees, making them an oasis for hot springs enthusiasts. Healing element of mineral-rich water: sodium, bicarbonate and sulfate. These natural ingredients are recognized for their healing properties.
There are also private soaking pools for a more romantic experience. Either outdoor Jacuzzi mineral baths or private pools indoors. Ideal for couples and everyone looking to take some time off
Featuring geo-thermal caves with a steady temperature of 106°F to 110°F—perhaps the only hot springs in Colorado where you can relax sans swimsuit! Following in a tradition that is more than 100 years old, they are gender-segregated. Be aware that you can hang out nude in the cave areas of UWA.
For added relaxation, reserve a personal message room. This resort features a lovely pool which is great for families to bring their children. In the tropical room you can spend hours and have your problems dissolve.
Consider visiting on limited hour days, weekends and holidays as it gets pretty crowded. During the high season, it is also recommended to book private baths in advance. Historic charm and all the modern conveniences are a deadly mix at this spot.
SunWater Spa (102 Miles)
SunWater Spa — A unique natural oasis located in the charming mountain town of Manitou Springs, CO Boulder to Estes Park: 2 Hours The miles will melt away! The springs offer seven private soaking tubs, which have the cedar aroma from its making. It offers sweeping views of Pikes Peak and the foothills from every tub.
Here, the mineral water contains natural health-improving properties such as lithium and calcium. And these are the naturally occurring compounds from springs subterranean source. With cedar tubs at temperatures of 98-104°F, you can sit back and pick your ideal soaking temperature while witnessing the sun fall behind the mountains.
SunWater has a phenomenally holistic and inclusive approach to wellness — it is about more than simply soaking. The place offers yoga classes in their open air mountain-view studio throughout the day are inevitable. All therapeutic treatments are available for booking such as traditional massages to Ayurvedic therapies. Unique water meditation sessions are made available to help allow the guests minds and bodies reachable peace measured only by the strokes of swinging bamboos.
I suggest getting the 3 hour soaking pass if you want to enjoy everything. The least windy time to visit is probably around sunset when the sandstone red rocks turn orange. Oh, and hit up their salt room therapy… it is AMAZING after a soak. All seasons have their magic, but winter soakings under snowfall are another experience humans must envy.
It fills up, particularly on weekends so best to book ahead. The spa is kept to minimum capacity to create a serene environment. Water shoes for walking between the pools (the ground gets super hot from all that sunshine) and a reusable water bottle. There is plenty of stuff and most people would spend about 3-4 hours here to get the full experience.
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort (103.2 miles)
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort quietly nestled in the middle of Grand County, is about a two-hour drive from Boulder. Native Americans were the first to discover that these soothing waters could heal, and this historical resort has been curing visitors every since. The resort offers 22 mineral pools and baths with seven temperatures. Every pool enjoys its own therapeutic aspects, and views over the mountains are to die for.
Temperatures for each of the pools span a nice and cozy 98°F to an oook!.042^¥#¢!!.05·112° Feel free to bounce around from pool-to-pool and find your personal favorite soaking temperature. The abundance of sulfate, calcium and magnesium make the minerals here particularly high. After a long day, you’ll sink into these waters with relief — I found that soaking for 20 minutes calms your muscles.
This one stands out with 12-month access and true mountain vibes. The snow drifts lightly down while your body soaks in warm steamy waters. The resort is deliberately a little rough around the edges and puts you in feeling with nature. This place is unpretentious, its charm does not reside in the mod cons you can expect to find here.
Meanwhile, the private pools ensure a more secluded soak, away from busy spot. Ideal for couples or those unsuccessfully looking for peace and quiet these pools are the pinnacle of opulence. Enhance your healing experience by booking a massage at their on-site spa. The healing properties of the massage and mineral soaking are so therapeutic together!
Weekdays are better, as weekend there’re crowds. If you like to soak in peace, early morning or late evenings are the best times. Bring lots of water and you can pee that mineral contentful high liquid out. This sets this healing retreat in its own league of altitude and mineral water.
Radium Hot Springs (117 miles)
Those adventure seekers who want to be a bit more independent and crave the primitive side of hot springs – head over to Radium Hot Springs. This natural spring perches by the Colorado River about two hours from Boulder. There is a 0.3-mile walk out to the river, but it isn’t far and the trail along Fish Walking Path is very pretty with several spots for good lunch picnicking. The journey then itself also adds to the memory.
With the temp fluctuating year around in a comfortable 80°F, these springs melt into the rivers path. In those days yu can decide of taking a dip in the river or enjoying one of natural rock pools. As you soak, the canyon walls tower above on all sides. This is the one and only spot where water from a hot spring meets cool river water, creating its own charming contrast.
One of the things that I love most about Radium is its truly unspoiled, mercifully uncommercialized nature and free entry. No changing rooms, no facilities, nothing to pay. Pure Colorado wilderness and healing waters. In the summer you may come across kayakers or rafters taking a break from their whitewater adventure. You can also cliff jump in the spots nearby for even more adventure.
Be sure to include any must-haves, as there are no services this deep in the wilderness. Wear water shoes to traverse the rocky river bottom. That said, I suggest weekday mornings to visit with fewer tourists. Visiting can be frustrating unless you arrange it during late spring to early autumn when river levels are typically light enough.
Remember, though; winter access might be a bit harder with icy trail conditions. However, remember to check weather forecast before you go. Please remember you are in a primitive area and adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace. Helps preserve this natural treasure by packing out what you pack in.
Desert Reef Hot Springs (137 miles)
Located in Florence, Colorado not far from Cañon City and a two-hour drive south of Denver, Desert Reef Hot Springs offers an awesome place to soak in the desert. To Be WildFrom Boulder: 2.5 hoursA scenic drive that transitions through many landscapes takes you to this hidden oasis. The spring has been updated and renovated in 2022, providing crystalline mineral waters with a constant source of warm (100°F) water that flows year-round surrounded by the desert atmosphere.
The main pool is cleverly created with a sandy bottom for awhile and rishing lounges flows to green outdoors, affiliate soaking areas. Well, the natural minerals in this water becalm calcium-magnesium and trace elements with healing properties. Only a few visitors per day bask in the quiet. The best part, the clothing-optional status and an adults only setting.
Not to worry though, as a recent round of renovations have modernized Desert Reef just enough while preserving the natural integrity that makes it so unique. Day trips are easy, and comfortable with a shower-themed changing area. Enjoy incredible views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from our poolside sundeck. I especially love coming at sunset when the desert sky ripples with color.
However, please note advance reservations are a must as the tickets get sold out well in advance. The spring is open Thursday through Monday, with normal hours for clothed visits and clothing-optional visiting. Be sure to pack water and sun-protection in the desert climate. It is a bit of a drive from Boulder but the unique environment and mineral-filled waters were well worth it.
Expert tip: Go during weekday mornings for a more peaceful experience. These winter months come with dreamy soaking experiences: steam rising into cool desert air, visually magical. Opt for a full day pass to experience the desert hot spring above and below ground.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
The backcountry hot springs of Colorado are perhaps some of the best, and then there is Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort – standing as 1-pound filet mignon at a frozen meat raffle. Set within Nathrop’s Chalk Creek Canyon This spot provides stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks. The resort offers soaking in temperatures as cool as 70°F to up to 120° F, and you won’t be unable take your eyes off of the stunning views of the peaks that tower an astounding 14,000 feet above.
These are the hot springs themselves along a historic creek. Bubbling up through the creek beds are natural hot spring waters. If you want to experience Chalk creek a little differently (naturally), head across from the resorts and create your own soaking pools by rearranging rocks in the river. In summer, the hot springs provides a great way to warm up after enjoying the cool mountain water of Slattery Creek.
The resort has numerous pools to suit every taste and style. Stay Active An 85°F temperature lets you swim laps in the exercise pool. The upper pools are a relaxed 95°F to 105°F. The 30,000 square foot adults only spa has both an indoor and outdoor infinity pool with amazing views of the mountains at a relaxing constant temperature: yes really — they keep their heated pools at exactly ninety nine (99) degrees.
This is a great place for weekend getaways from Boulder with luxury lodging choices. The spa has a range of treatments that will elevate your soak. Riverside spots are popular so make sure to reserve in advance for summer weekends. The best time to come is in the shoulder season of spring or fall for a more low-key experience.
It might worth your time to stay there overnight and just take some of the resorts services. The dawn immersions, in particular with steam increasing from the basins are simply glamorous. But be sure to visit the all-natural rock bottom pools underground because they don’t get more nature-y than this. Its upgrades in a recent renovation have given the resort many modern facilities but it is still packed with natural charm.