Are There Hot Springs in Boulder, Colorado? Here’s What You Need to Know (2025)

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Looking for hot springs in Boulder, Colorado? This post has all of the information you’ll need to find a great hot spring near Boulder, Colorado.

I grew up in Denver, Colorado and remember packing up our van to visit hot springs throughout the Rocky Mountains when I was a kid. My mom and I visited hot springs throughout the state, usually with our dog, Sugar, and my little sister in tow. A trip to the hot springs was always a relaxing, fun experience, no matter which pools we visited. 

I visited a primitive hot spring for the first time after college while on a trip to Taos, New Mexico. While I was used to the smell of sulphuric hot springs, I was surprised by the slimy and mossy look of the wild springs. After a little while, I grew to love visiting wild hot springs as much – or maybe more – than the built up pools. 

I moved to Boulder during my 20’s and lived there for several years, often making trips to visit hot springs when it was convenient. Of all of the hot springs in Colorado, I always think of Pagosa Springs, Ouray, and Glenwood Springs with the most fondness. While researching for this post, I learned about Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs and decided that I need to make my way there sometime soon. 

Are there hot springs in Boulder, Colorado?

I wish! Unfortunately, there are no natural hot springs in Boulder, Colorado. In order to visit Colorado’s hot springs, you’ll need to head into the Rocky Mountains. 

There are hot springs throughout the Rocky Mountains, including both wild pools and man-made structures. You’ll notice that many of these Colorado hot springs are not especially close to Boulder. Be prepared to drive in order to reach the springs. So long as you’re up for a little road trip, you should be able to start soaking in the warm water very soon!

Truthfully, I think most everyone living in Boulder would prefer to have hot springs in their backyard. However, one of the nice parts of having the springs be so spread out is that they’re less packed with visitors than they would be otherwise. 

11 Relaxing hot springs near Boulder, Colorado

Here are some of the top natural hot springs near Boulder, Colorado. From the warm, tropical pools of Indian Hot Springs to the rugged, wild Conundrum Hot Springs, these pools run the gambit. 

Be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, water bottle, and snacks with you, no matter which springs you choose to visit. 

1. Indian Hot Springs

Located just outside of Denver, Indian Hot Springs is the closest option to Boulder and the most accessible as a day trip. You can soak in the large hot spring pool, which has been made into a mini tropical oasis with banana trees, ferns, and flowers. There are also small private pools, geothermal caves, and mud baths available. 

Indian Hot Springs has a resort on the premises, but the pools are open to the public. Prices range from $20 to $45 per person, depending on the experience and the day of the week.  

Free for visitors? No
Location: 302 Soda Creek Rd, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
Distance from Boulder: 39 miles (1 hour drive) 

2. Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is a private resort with natural geothermal hot spring pools that are open to the public 365 days per year. The pools range from 70-120℉, and you can move between them to stay comfortable. Mount Princeton Hot Springs’ pools are outside, so you can enjoy incredible views of the Colorado Rockies while you soak. 

These hot springs are family-friendly, do not require a reservation, and are open to the public year-round. You can simply purchase a day pass to visit the hot springs once you arrive. General admission includes access to the historic bath house, creekside pools, upper pools, and an infinity pool.

Note that the creekside pools close due to safety and comfort concerns when Chalk Creek is running high. The main pools are open throughout the year. 

Free for visitors? No
Location: 15870 Co Rd 162, Nathrop, CO 81236
Distance from Boulder: 140 miles (3 hour drive)

3. Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is one of the most popular hot spring destinations for locals living on the Front Range. There are two large pools to choose from, each set at different temperatures. Additionally, you’ll find water slides, a diving board, and a waterfall that you can stand under to relieve tension in your back and neck. 

The very popular Hanging Lake Trail is only a 15 minute drive from the pool. So, you can go for a hike before you soak or in the morning on your way back to Boulder if you decide to stay overnight in Glenwood Springs. 

Be aware that the entry fees for Glenwood Hot Springs Pool are pretty steep, at $47 per adult on the weekends. That price includes access to the pools, lockers, and unlimited time in the pools. 

Free for visitors? No
Location: 401 N River St, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Distance from Boulder: 163 miles (3 hour drive)

4. Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Iron Mountain Hot Springs is also located in Glenwood Springs, about 3 hours from Denver by car. From the hot springs you can look out over the incredible views of the mountains, which are dotted with green in the spring and summer or covered in snow in the winter months. 

The facilities at Iron Mountain Springs are nice and well maintained. There are pools of various temperatures, from a large family pool to a jetted spa. For an extra fee, you can access the adults-only “upriver” area, which guests say was worth the additional cost. 

Like the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the prices here are pretty steep. They start at $36 for a 3 hour pass for adults, capping at $150 per person for an unlimited day pass. 

Free for visitors? No
Location: 281 Centennial St, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Distance from Boulder: 165 miles (3 hour drive)

5. Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs

Located in Steamboat Springs, Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs is a unique hot spring experience in Colorado. These woodsy and rustic pools are very popular, so the whole place is usually buzzing during the day. There is a cold creek next to the springs that you can jump into if you’d like to try the warm/cold contrast. 

Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs has tent camping available and a few rustic cabins that you can rent (you’ll need to bring your own linens). The price for the tent spots was only slightly cheaper than the cabins, so consider that when making your plans. All accommodation prices include access to the hot springs through the night. 

These hot springs offer a different experience after dark, when they become clothing optional for visitors. Accordingly, minors are not allowed after dark.

If you’d like to visit during the winter months, you’ll need to pre-book a shuttle unless you have a 4WD vehicle. 

Free for visitors? No
Location: 44200 Co Rd 36, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Distance from Boulder: 170 miles (3.5 hour drive)

6. South Canyon Hot Springs

South Canyon Hot Springs are another free hot spring to visit, set just a short hike from Glenwood Springs. There are beautiful views from the springs, and the area is very peaceful if you can get it to yourself. Unlike Penny Hot Springs, South Canyon Hot Springs are somewhat developed, with clearly defined pools, a garbage can, and a few places to sit. 

I wouldn’t recommend that you make a special trip just to see South Canyon Hot Springs, especially when you could go to the much nicer Penny Hot Springs. However, if you’re still craving some hot springs while you’re in Glenwood Springs but unwilling to pay for another day at the nicer (and rather expensive) pools, this could be a good option. 

I also really enjoy wild and minimally developed hot springs, because they’re a great reminder that these springs are a natural part of the geography in Colorado.  

Free for visitors? Yes
Location: Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Distance from Boulder: 174 miles (3 hour drive)

7. Penny Hot Springs

Penny Hot Springs is a free, wild hot spring located near Carbondale, Colorado. The natural springs collect into a few shallow pools separated by rocks. From inside the pools, you can enjoy jaw-dropping views of the mountains.

The springs are set just next to the road, so they’re relatively easy to spot and don’t require any hiking to access. You will, however, need to scramble down to reach the pools, which can be especially treacherous in icy weather. 

Penny Hot Springs are clothing optional after dark. You’ll have the best experience if you go early in the morning or late in the evening, as the springs are pretty small and can sometimes get crowded. 

Free for visitors? Yes
Location: Colorado 81623
Distance from Boulder: 188 miles (3.5 hour drive)

8. Conundrum Hot Springs

Conundrum Hot Springs is definitely not for the faint of heart. The hike to this wild spring is about 9 miles each way, doable as a day trip but only for very experienced hikers. If you’d like to stay overnight, you’ll need to first apply for a camping permit. 

This spring is primitive, so expect mossy rocks, sulfur smells, and some sediment in the water. There are about 20 campsites near the springs, so chances are you will need to share the pool with other hikers. 

Conundrum Hot Springs is on my bucket list of places to visit in Colorado – I can’t wait until I get to go!

Free for visitors? Yes
Location: Colorado 81611
Distance from Boulder: 250 miles (5.25 hours) to the trailhead

9. The Springs Resort & Spa

The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs has one of the most unique designs, with small pools that you can sample at varying temperatures. Many of the pools feature beautiful views of the river that flows behind the resort and of the Colorado Rockies. 

You can visit the Springs Resort & Spa by booking a room, which comes with 24/7 access to the pools, or by purchasing a day pass. The day passes are priced pretty steeply at $65 per adult as of this writing. 

Free for visitors? No
Location: 323 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Distance from Boulder: 288 miles (5.5 hour drive)

10. Hippy Dip Hot Spring

The Hippy Dip Hot Spring is not only the option on this list with the best name, it’s also free to visit. This wild hot spring is located in central Pagosa Springs, Colorado, not far from the Springs Resort & Spa. Like the other wild springs on this list, you’ll find small, shallow pools separated by rocks. 

The springs are nestled into the banks of the San Juan River, so you could even go for a cold plunge if the water isn’t running too quickly. Note that when the San Juan River is very high, these springs will be washed out. 

I first visited these wild springs when at a music festival in Pagosa Springs and enjoyed them. You won’t find the solitude that other springs offer because they’re right in the middle of town, but it’s still nice to relax in the warm water.

Free for visitors? Yes
Location: 321 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Distance from Boulder: 288 miles (5.5 hour drive)

11. Orvis Hot Springs 

Orvis Hot Springs is a small operation near Ridgway, Colorado. This clothing-optional natural hot spring is set at the base of the San Juan Mountains, near both Ouray and Telluride. There are seven outdoor and three indoor pools that you can enjoy, with a range of temperatures and water features. 

You can stay overnight at Orvis Hot Springs, where guests have 24-hour access to the pools after they close to the public. If you want to stay overnight, be forewarned that the rooms book up quickly and far in advance, so don’t wait to make plans. 

Free for visitors? No
Location: 1585 County Rd #3, Ridgway, CO 81432
Distance from Boulder: 330 miles (6 hour drive)

FAQs: Hot springs in Boulder, Colorado 

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about hot springs in Boulder, Colorado.

Are there hot springs in Boulder, Colorado?

Unfortunately there are no natural hot springs in Boulder or Denver, but you can find them throughout the Rocky Mountains. 

Does Colorado have natural hot springs?

Yes, Colorado has a number of natural hot springs! Some of these springs are wild, meaning that you can simply walk or hike up to them and hop in. Others are more built up, so you may need to pay an entry fee to go into the pools. 

Many of the hot springs are available year-round. So, a trip to the hot springs could be a great way to get outside during a winter trip to Boulder, Colorado.

Can you swim in the hot springs?

It depends on your definition of “swim.” If you mean wade into the water and relax, then yes – you can swim in the hot springs near Boulder. If, on the other hand, you’re asking if you can swim laps and move around in the water, then you might be disappointed by many of the springs on this list. 

There are a few natural hot springs in Colorado that are deep enough to swim, but this is not typical. Most hot springs are no deeper than a hot tub, and may be even shallower. Wild hot springs are usually little more than a shallow pool fashioned out of rocks, so you’ll need to lay down in order to be fully submerged. 

How much does it cost to go to the hot springs in Colorado?

It really depends on the hot spring. Some of the sites on this list are natural springs, meaning they are free to visit and usually form in small pools next to a river. Other hot springs are quite built up in spa facilities, only available for a pricey entrance fee.

Do you wear a bathing suit to hot springs?

Unless otherwise noted, bathing suits are required for most hot springs. If you’re visiting a hot spring pool, as opposed to a wild hot spring, there will likely be a changing area and lockers to store your belongings. 

Should you shower after swimming in hot springs?

Hot springs give off a strong sulfur smell that can be unpleasant, so I would recommend that you shower off if possible. Most hot spring facilities will have showers, but if you go to a wild hot spring you’ll need to shower when you get home. 

Conclusion: Hot Springs in Boulder, Colorado

Unfortunately, you won’t find any hot springs in the city of Boulder, Colorado. You can, however, reach many of Colorado’s best hot springs by driving from Boulder into the Rocky Mountains. There are several types of hot springs that you can visit near Boulder, from the tropical pools in Indian Springs to the primitive pool at Conundrum Hot Springs to the built up pools in Pagosa Springs. 

A visit to a hot spring is a great way to relax and unwind, and the sulphuric water is great for your skin and hair. If you enjoy a more spa-like atmosphere, many of the hot springs on this list have treatments like massages and facials available. On the other hand, you can also have a very rustic experience at a spot that is less built up. 

If you’ve never been to a hot spring before, I’d recommend that you start with one that has established pools. Natural hot springs can be slimy and take some getting used to, which can keep you from enjoying them to the fullest.