While the city shines with autumn colors, winter has already arrived in the high country. Crisp air and the season’s first snowflakes make hot springs all the more inviting — and with new ways to recharge, it’s the perfect time of year to plan a self-care retreat.
Across the state, several resorts have recently debuted renovated lodging and refreshed pools to suit every preference. From cozy mountain escapes to serene riverside soaks, these destinations are well-worth adding to your cold-weather bucket list.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Famed for having the largest hot springs pool in the world, this iconic wellness destination in Glenwood Springs has debuted several features in the past few years. These include the Yampah mineral baths, a series of five spacious pools that become adults-only after 5 p.m. Rotate between geothermal waters and cold plunge pools before retreating to the renovated, on-site lodge. This summer, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort also opened a new boutique option within its historic sandstone bathhouse. Called Hotel 1888, the accommodations include 16 luxurious guest rooms, including two premium suites with water views. hotspringspool.com
Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Adding to its original 18 pools, Iron Mountain Hot Springs recently introduced an additional 13 with its WorldSprings expansion. Open only to adults, this major upgrade was modeled after the most iconic hot springs on Earth, such as the Blue Lagoon in Iceland and those throughout Hokkaido, Japan. To recreate these destinations, the resort infuses its geothermal water with similar mineral compositions. Next year, guests will enjoy even more globally-inspired bathing traditions with the launch of three plunge pools and five new thermal experiences: Turkish hammams, Finnish saunas, Korean steam rooms, Russian banyas and Polish salt caves. ironmountainhotsprings.com
The Springs Resort
Few stops on the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop are as famous as The Springs Resort. Though Pagosa Springs experienced heavy rainfall and flooding in October, the resort remains fully open and is welcoming guests.
This holistic retreat features 52 soaking pools fed by the world’s deepest geothermal spring. The vast selection includes spaces dedicated to families and adults, cold river plunges, a steam grotto and an upgraded spa offering exclusive pools and various treatments. Add wellness classes like yoga and sound bathing to your itinerary, along with wholesome dining and on-site lodging. As part of its recent upgrade, the resort debuted 78 new hotel rooms and suites, which provide all-hours soaking access. pagosahotsprings.com
READ MORE: 6 Destination Spas in Colorado
Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa
Plan a southwest getaway to board one of the most scenic winter train rides, ski at Purgatory Resort and soak at Durango Hot Springs. In recent years, this haven has undergone an extensive redesign resulting in 32 soaking pools, with several dedicated to adults. The resort also features two cold plunges, a swimming pool and five Japanese-inspired cedar tubs available for private reservations. Admire mountain views while relaxing in uniquely oxygenated water, which is said to amplify the healing properties of the naturally present minerals. Massages, facials and spa enhancements add to the healing experience. durangohotspringsresortandspa.com
Old Town Hot Springs
Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs recently debuted an eight-lane lap pool, a shallow-depth community pool and a new soaking pool complete with a wrap-around bench. Open year-round, these heated features add to the recreation center’s four existing mineral baths, all of which are available without reservations. Admission also provides access to its indoor climbing wall, well-equipped gym, fitness classes and all other facility amenities; massages are offered for an additional fee. oldtownhotsprings.org
Indian Hot Springs
In addition to refreshed lodge rooms, Indian Hot Springs—the metro area’s nearest hot springs, located in Idaho Springs—just debuted two private soaking options: an outdoor cedar tub and cold plunge, plus four fully-renovated indoor baths within Woodland Hall. Hourly reservations are open to groups of up to four guests. Adults can also venture underground to experience pools inside historic caves, which are gender-specific and clothing optional on weekdays. Meanwhile, all ages can access the large mineral water swimming pool at Indian Hot Springs, which is covered by a translucent dome and surrounded by lush tropical plants. indianhotsprings.com
Charlotte Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens
The newest wellness retreat in Buena Vista debuted last year and, thus far, it’s remained a well-kept secret. Compared to nearby alternatives, the three outdoor soaking pools at Charlotte Hot Springs see fewer crowds and offer a quiet mountain escape. Plan to wander the indoor botanical garden when visiting, where you may spot a couple of colorful parrots and iguanas among the greenery. Those looking to stay the night can book one of two cozy cabins located a short distance further west on Cottonwood Pass. Each offers its own private soaking pool. coloradohotspringsresort.com
