By Morgan Tilton
The only feeling that may rival the relief of peeling off ski boots at the end of a powder day is being able to slide your toes—feet, calves, quads, and shoulders—into a steaming hot-spring pool. Fortunately for all, the Earth’s healing waters speckle the state of Colorado. Here are a handful of favorite locations for their convenience to Colorado ski resorts, exquisite views and thoughtful design.
Ski hard. Soak it up.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs
42 miles from Aspen Mountain
Photo Courtesy of Visit Glenwood Springs
Soak up the relaxing vibes of the Roaring Fork Valley at Glenwood Springs’ newest established hot springs establishment: Iron Mountain. Sandstone cliffs and Mt. Sopris stand in view of the 16 organically shaped pools that range in temperature from 99 to 108 degrees F. Established quiet zones plus a larger, freshwater pool for the kids allow play time for the whole family, no matter what time of day.
281 Centennial Street, Glenwood Springs
Ouray Hot Springs
50 miles from Telluride Ski Resort
Situated on the north end of its namesake town, Ouray Hot Springs is surrounded by a cirque of the incredible San Juan Mountains, which stretch more than 12,000 feet high above the valley floor. Seven natural sources circulate hot water into the outdoor pool, which features several large sections and plenty of room for families to play. The hottest area reaches close to 104 degrees, followed by a 95-degree pool, as well as lap lanes at 80 degrees. The historic mining town, which rests at 7,746 feet, still harkens to its past with aged-wood storefronts that speckle main street. Several other hot springs are located in the area for a post-ski soak including the clothing-optional Orvis Hot Springs.
1220 Main St, Ouray
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort
30 miles from Winter Park Resort
Photo Courtesy of Visit Grand County
The first pool house that was built at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort dates back to more than a century ago, meaning this ancient spa is one of the oldest established soak-spots in Colorado. Twenty-one pools of varying heat are on the grounds, where Ute Indians would venture to bath in what was believed to be magical, medicinal water. Following extensive renovation in 1997, a local Ute tribal spiritual leader blessed the waters at the grand opening ceremony with close to 1,000 people in attendance.
5609 Co Hwy 20, Hot Sulphur Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
10 miles from Steamboat Ski Resort
Photo Courtesy of Guy Mason and Flickr
After exhausting your quads on Steamboat’s Champagne Powder, there’s nothing better than retreating into a true natural mountain escape. The mineral water pools are held by real rock walls, surrounded by the Aspen forest, and offer an open window to a clear night sky full of stars. The river flows adjacent to the hot pools, which offers a cool down reprieve and blood circulation therapy.
44200 County Road #36, Steamboat Springs
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
82 miles from Beaver Creek Resort
Photo Courtesy of Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Photo Courtesy of Mount Princeton Hot Springs ResortFrom the ancient 1800s bathhouse to the 40-foot slide and the creekside hot springs, this historic Colorado resort delivers the type of relaxation—located in the middle of nowhere—that invites you to stay an entire day following extreme sessions on the slopes.
