As the aspens turn gold and mornings become crisp, there's no better time to slip into a steaming mineral pool surrounded by the beauty of the West. From well-known resorts to hidden gems, these hot springs destinations are perfect for short escapes from town.
Few hot springs offer a more iconic Colorado setting than Mount Princeton Hot Springs. Nestled between Buena Vista and Salida in the shadow of the Collegiate Peaks, the resort combines creekside soaking pools and larger geothermal pools with mountain views. Fall is especially beautiful as cottonwoods and aspens color the surrounding valleys. Visitors can soak in natural rock pools built directly into Chalk Creek or enjoy more developed resort amenities. Grab lunch in Buena Vista or Salida and make a full day of it. The drive itself, following Highway 24 through South Park, is part of the experience. Approximately 2 hours away from Colorado Springs.
Pagosa Springs is home to one of the deepest geothermal hot springs in the world at more than 1,000 feet in depth and one of Colorado's most luxurious soaking experiences. The Springs Resort features dozens of soaking pools lining the San Juan River, each with varying temperatures. Visitors can move from pool to pool while enjoying views of downtown Pagosa and the surrounding mountains. Fall colors along Wolf Creek Pass make the drive spectacular, and the town itself offers charming shops and restaurants. It's perfect for a romantic overnight getaway with its stunning lodge full of interesting antiques and history. Approximately 3.5 hours away.
The most famous of Colorado's hot springs, Glenwood Hot Springs has been attracting visitors since the late 1800s (including President Theodore Roosevelt). The massive mineral pool is unlike anything else in the state, offering plenty of room to swim and soak. The historic setting gives it a nostalgic feel, while modern amenities keep families and couples happy. The facility recently finished its east end expansion with new pools for adults and upgraded changing rooms. Fall visitors are treated to stunning drives through Glenwood Canyon, an engineering legend in its own right. Approximately 4 hours away.
Also in Glenwood Springs: Iron Mountain Hot Springs. The first commercial use of these hot springs began in 1896 with the opening of the West Glenwood Health Spa. The spa changed ownership several times over the next century. In 1996, the existing spa structure was torn down, and the property remained vacant until July 2015 when the new Iron Mountain Hot Springs was opened. It offers quite a different experience from the Glenwood Springs pool. Located just across the Colorado River, Iron Mountain visitors can choose from dozens of smaller mineral soaking pools, each with its own temperature. The setting feels more intimate and upscale, making it a favorite among couples. Watching the Colorado River flow past while snow falls on surrounding peaks creates a uniquely Colorado experience. Approximately 4 hours away.
Head toward Idaho Springs to enjoy Indian Hot Springs, which offers one of Colorado's most unusual soaking experiences. The property's tropical indoor pool sits beneath a glass dome, surrounded by palms and exotic plants to create a warm oasis, even on chilly fall days. The resort is also known for its geothermal vapor caves carved into the mountainside. It may not have the dramatic mountain views of some other destinations, but it delivers a unique and memorable experience. Approximately 2.5 hours away.
The sweet spot for hot springs is late September through early November. The summer crowds have thinned and the contrast between cool mountain air and steaming mineral water creates the perfect Colorado fall experience. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a historic pool or a natural hidden soaking spot tucked into the mountains, there's a hot spring adventure waiting just a short drive from Colorado Springs.