Things to Do in Hot Springs, Colorado

Things to Do in Hot Springs, Colorado
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Colorado is a land of incredible beauty. Tall rugged mountains, vast rolling plains and even desert escarpments are all a part of its stunning landscapes. A visit to Colorado is not complete without a visit to one of its many hot springs for which it is so famous. Besides the hot springs, there is much to do and see in Colorado, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hot Springs

The state of Colorado is peppered by numerous hot springs. Hot springs form when up wellings of magma from under the earth's crust super heat water that is then pushed to the surface, bringing with it all sorts of beneficial vitamins and minerals. Colorado's wide-open spaces, tall mountains and roaring rivers offer many opportunities for adventure. A trip to the hot springs of Colorado can be combined with any number of outdoor activities, from hiking to skiing, making it a favorite destination for lovers of the outdoors.

Camping

Many of Colorado's hot springs are off the beaten path and require a good hike to get to. The reward is isolated hot springs where you can camp and get away from it all. Though there are many hot springs to hike to and camp at, some of the best are Dry Lake in Routt National Forest, Ourey Hot Springs next to the Uncompaghre River and the Rainbow Hot Springs in San Juan National Forest.

Spas

Many of Colorado's hot springs are privately owned and offer hotels, private cabins and spa services at the hot springs. Glenwood Springs, Pagosa Springs and Indian Hot Springs Spa are some of the well-known hot springs that offer full spa services alongside quaint cabins and accommodations. Mineral spas offer a variety of health benefits, from promoting peace and relaxation to helping with high blood pressure and eczema. A healing retreat at one of Colorado's hot springs spas can be a great way to connect with nature as well as promote well-being.

Summer

During the summer time, there are many activities that can be combined with your trip to hot springs in Colorado. Hiking, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing and river rafting are all popular activities in the summer in Colorado. Also, Colorado hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts during the summer, many happening at the ski resorts that are closed for the summer. For example, Steamboat Springs, where many hot springs can be found, hosts many summer music festivals.

Winter

During the winter, trips to visit the hot springs in Colorado are still possible. Some of the more remote hot springs may not be accessible due to heavy snow, but the hot spring lodges and pools are open all winter long. Skiing and snowboarding are very popular winter activities in Colorado, and visiting a hot spring can be a great way to end a long day of fun on the slopes on one of Colorado's many ski mountains.

References

Article reviewed by Leigh Ann Klaus Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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