Pagosa Springs: Hot Springs

Looking across the San Juan toward The Springs Resort and Hot Springs

Located along the San Juan river, in the center of Pagosa Springs, Colorado is The Springs Resort (and hot springs).

Home to the Guiness Book of records for the deepest geothermal spring, this commercial hot spring is the central attraction in this beautiful mountain town. I have driven through this town on several occasions on the way to other destinations, never stopping to enjoy the hot, mineral rich pools until recently.

I would place The Springs Resort in my top five Colorado hot springs resorts. I will have to update my previous list soon.

 

I loved relaxing in the various pools and listening to the rushing river directly adjacent to the resort. I also liked that there were a variety of pools to enjoy. During my recent visit I had several conversations with others who were also soaking up the springs. Everyone was friendly and laid back on this trip. Later, I was able to find a small pool and relished some moments of peaceful solitude beneath a shimmering moon.


Pros: Located in a charming mountain town, local vibe, variety of temperatures and pools, resort feel.

Con: No discount if you arrive in the latter part of the day. Price is fairly steep, doesn't include cost of locker.

Although the immediate area around the Resort offered several places to eat, I found a cute coffee shop on the other side of town called Boulder Coffee Café. The café was rustically charming, and like most of Pagosa Springs was an independent shop.

Driving along the scenic Wolf Creek Pass

 

 

There are other attractions on the way from Denver, such as, the opportunity to drive over Wolf Creek Pass. This mountain pass is one of the more lush and scenic passes. Treasure Falls is a nice brief stop-off, with several scenic look-out points along the pass.

 

Pagosa Springs is a convenient stop if you are returning from New Mexico or if you are headed to Durango, CO.

Also nearby is Chimney Rock National Monument. Another ancestral Puebloan site where you can tour ruins and learn about the prehistory of the region. Check their website for tour times as I recently learned they close earlier than I expected. The drive and area was scenic, mountainous, and wondrously secluded.

Looking up at Chimney Rock and adjacent formation.

So, whether  Pagosa Springs is your main destination or if you are just passing through....there is plenty to see and do. But especially make a point to check out The Springs Resort and soak in the refreshing hot springs.

Glenwood Springs: Soak Up The Old West

Glenwood Hot Springs 

 About three hours directly west of Denver is a mountain town with Old West feel (yes, another one); Glenwood Springs.

 One of the most popular destinations is Glenwood Hot Springs. Located just off of Interstate 70, in the heart of Glenwood Springs.

Essentially, Glenwood Hot Springs consists of one large pool but with two slightly different sections (one end is warmer than the other). The place is popular and therefore can be quite crowded at times. However, it can be a relaxing experience especially if you go in the evening.

 

  

(View from one end of pool to the other.)

 

Pros: Convenient. Historic. Close to the highway and downtown. Lodging available.

 

Cons: Can be crowded. Slightly expensive if staying only a short time.

 

TIPS: 1) Next door is Yampah Vapor Caves. For more of a private setting you can soak in your own private tub and enjoy a sauna.

2) If you are the adventurous type...and the Colorado River is running low...you can find your own private soak on the actual bank of the river. Explore at your own risk. :) 3) There is another commercial hot spring business that just opened nearby called Iron Mountain Hot Springs. I have not been here yet so I can't say pros or cons. But if anyone checks it out feel free to leave a comment. I hope to check it out soon.

                                                         Hotel Colorado

 

 

 

There are many hotels, motels, and inn's around downtown Glenwood Springs. Some are definitely better than others. The last time I visited, my Dad and I stayed at the Hotel Colorado. It is in walking distance to the hot springs and several restaurants.

 

The front desk worker, whose name escapes me but whose spirit I will never forget, was very friendly and helpful.

The building itself is on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1893, it remains one of Colorado's oldest hotels.

Rumor has it that Theodore Roosevelt's nickname of "Teddy Bear" began during his stay here in 1905. According to the story, a hotel maid handcrafted a stuffed bear for him....Thus, the Teddy Bear was created.

 

Our friendly hotel representative posed for a photo.

 

 

Pros: Central location. Historic. Nice patio dining experience.

 

Cons: The hotel is old and they have not installed central air. So, it felt a bit stuffy when we stayed.  Also, the walls are thin and we heard kids running up and down the hall above us.

 

 

 A Short Hike Full of History

 

Just a few minutes from Glenwood Hot Springs, near Highway 82 and 12th St., is the Linwood Cemetery (also known as the Pioneer Cemetery). Because of how the Old West was spun, the fascination with violent gun slingers still persists...and I admit....as a fan of history I wanted to see some of these "famous" individuals final resting places....so I made the short hike up the hill to the Pioneer Cemetery. Here, Kid Curry and John Henry Holliday (better known as "Doc") are buried.

 

Although...there is only a marker for Doc. It is left to question whether this really is where he was finally buried. But...it is where the historical marker currently resides.

View from the Pioneer Cemetery, overlooking Glenwood Springs.

 

 Another Kind of Suds

Speaking of Doc Holliday, after my Dad and I freshened up from our hot spring soak and hike, we headed to the Doc Holliday Tavern (adjacent to the Springs Downtown Bar and Grill) on Grand Ave. This was a cool, historic saloon with a neon light atmosphere. Decent place. Memorable space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Favorite Colorado Hot Springs

Colorado is fortunate to have at least about a dozen popular hot springs...as well as some that are off the beaten path. I thought I would list my favorites for you and also a few that I am hoping to check out in the near future.

Favorite Colorado Hot Springs:
(Click on the underlined title's for links to the websites)

1. Strawberry Hot Springs
(Located in Steamboat Springs)
This place is awesome! I love the way they have kept the natural look and feel. They also have several small but cozy and rustic camping concoctions. Also, be advised that after dark is "clothing optional" soaking.

2. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs
(Located in Nathrop...between Salida and Buena Vista)
I enjoy these springs because they are in one of my favorite areas in Colorado. After a fun day of camping, hiking, rafting, or four-wheeling this is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. Also, they have a couple of big pools but the coolest part is being able to find a few of the completely natural hot spots on the bank of the river (when the water is not too high0--right next to the commercialized pools.As of 2013, Mt. Princeton Hot Springs is now more of a resort-with an additional lodging facility and private pool for those staying in the lodge.

3. Hot Sulphur Springs
(Located near Granby)
What I like about this place is that there are around a dozen individual pools...some smaller and bigger than others. This can make for a cozy atmosphere if there aren't that many other guests. However, if the place is packed...then it could feel like alot of sardines in a can....but usually you can find a nice little pool for yourself and friends.

4. Indian Hot Springs
(Located in Idaho Springs)
This is probably the closest hot springs from Denver. It is a quick relaxing getaway located in the old mining town of Idaho Springs. One of the cool features of this resort is their Geothermal Caves. Guests can sit in an actual pool inside of a cave. However, one thing to know is that the caves are divided among genders...so...husbands and wives would not be able to go into the caves together...and note that bathing suits are optional (it used to be mandatory NO bathing suits; glad that has changed).. There are private pools and there is also a main pool.


5. Glenwood Springs Hot Springs
(Located in Glenwood Springs)
This resort is one of the main attractions to the town of Glenwood Springs. It lies right in the heart of town and can often be seen full of happy guests and swimmers. This is one HUGE hot spring pool! This offers more of a communal and open space for children and swimmers.There are actually two large pools that from a distance look like one large pool; one averages around 90 degrees (more of the swimming/active pool) and the other is around 102 degrees. Also, nearby is the Yampah Vapor Caves where you can also spend a day relaxing and steaming.

6. Cottonwood Hot Springs
This is a small but cute commercial hot spring with a handful of pools. A nice quaint oasis near Buena Vista and Cottonwood Pass. As of 2014, they have added some additional lodging facilities.


A few that I want to eventually check out:

7. Pagosa Hot Springs
(Pagosa Springs)

8. Orvis Hot Springs
(Ridgeway)

9. Conundrum Natural Hot Spring
(off the beaten path hike near Aspen)


For some other hot springs that I have not mentioned, check out the Colorado Hot Springs Enthusiast Blog here.

My Favorite Colorado Hiking Spots

The summer season is almost upon us which means it is time to dust off the old hiking boots! Here are some personal faves:

1) Rocky Mountain National Park

Is there a National Park that isn't beautiful year round? Well, summertime highlights Rocky's abundance of hiking trails and iconic views! Pick any trail in this park and I doubt you'll be disappointed. One of the most hiked areas is Bear Lake. There are multiple pristine lakes in this area to hike near, as well as, ascending mountain views. On the way up to Bear Lake is another favorite area with several waterfalls; called Glacier Gorge. For a less populated experience head over to the west side area of the park (either driving the picturesque Trail Ridge Road or entering through Grand Lake). Another beautiful but less traveled area is the Wild Basin area--check it out! One note of caution: check the website for weather or road conditions due to past flooding and weather updates.
website: http://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm

2) Hanging Lake

Definitely one of the most famous and dreamy mountain lakes in Colorado. I've posted on this hike before but it is worth mentioning again. Imagine a clear, emerald blue-green tiny lake with a few fallen trees....fashioned like an Ansel Adams photograph....and that is what Hanging Lake means to me. Also, it is a very popular hike in the summer so go early to beat the crowds! Tip: it is indeed a hike, bring water.
website: http://hikingincolorado.org/hang.html

3) The Colorado Trail

The Colorado Trail is a 500 mile stretch encompassing the essence of Colorado's Rocky Mountains! It is divided into 28 segments and varies in elevation and level of difficulty. Some folks take 4 to 6 weeks to hike all the way through while some do a little bit at a time over their lifespan. You can catch part of the trail (segments 5/6) at Kenosha Pass (about 40 min outside Denver...and this section is highly popular in the fall as there are several aspen groves in this section). Also, another segment that is pretty cool is segment 13 (North Cottonwood Creek Road to Chalk Creek Trailhead). Nearby are two popular hot springs to soak in. Also, leashed dogs ARE allowed on the trail except for segment 1 (Waterton Canyon) so as to protect the bighorn sheep habitat in that region.
website: http://www.coloradotrail.org/

4) Great Sand Dunes National Park

Amazing hikes, views, and photo opportunities abound at this park! Hike in the dunes, on the dunes, around the dunes....just seriously go see the tallest dunes in North America--in Colorado! However, in the summer the sand is very hot so definitely forget your flip flops and grab your boots instead! Seriously, they are like no sand dunes I have ever seen! Nestled beside the Sangre de Cristo mountains many trails abound! And many views to explore! For more trip planning ideas see my blog posted here.
website: http://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm

5) Collegiate Peaks Region

This area was mentioned in number 3 as part of segment 13 of the Colorado Trail....and this region is actually my favorite area in the summer. Have you always wished to have Ivy League blood in you? Well, now you can! Mt. Princeton, Mt. Harvard, or Mt. Yale; take your pick! Hot springs, rivers, recreational fun galore in this part of Colorado! Also, gem mining is popular in the region as agates and rubies have been found here.
website: http://www.coloradoswildareas.com/collegiate-peaks/


Honorable mentions closer to Denver:

Staunton State Park--Say hello to Colorado's newest addition to the State Park system! About 45 minutes west of Denver, near Conifer, is a tree hugger's paradise! Hike in solitude beneath conifer trees and mountain blue birds.

Pike National Forest--Hike and camp surrounded by rock outcrops and mountain pine trees in this calming nature escape.

Mt. Falcon Open Space--Scenic views, historic sites, and open space characterize this park. Just 35 minutes west of Denver.

Glenwood Springs and Hanging Lake

Well, I finally got to check out Hanging Lake for myself! It was definitely worth the trip! But, I'll tell ya, it was a trek! The trail was definately a work out and very rocky in several places. I had to make several rest stops as I am out of shape these days!


The view was incredible! As you ascend toward the lake, you are basically wandering through Glenwood Canyon (I believe...) and the canyon is literally walled in by squared off rock towers (very Indiana Jone's-like).


Anyway, when you FINALLY get there it is absolutely stunning! The lake is so clear, crisp, and colorful! After taking pictures of the lake area, you can head up toward Sprouting Rock and see another waterfall area.

*****


Hanging Lake (which I mentioned here in another post) is near Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Honestly, I was very surprised by the popularity of this small, cute town! It isn't even summer yet and just about every restaurant, hotel, and site I visited was filled with people! A local said that it is not uncommon, during summertime, for every hotel to be booked up! Very interesting....


The town of Glenwood Springs is surrounded by alpine beauty---with many of the mountain faces blushing with red rocks. The "hot spot", or the place to be, in this town seemed to be the Glenwood Springs Hot Springs--the place was packed!

Anyway, I will definately be back to this surprising jewel of a place!




**Cheap place to stay:
Starlight Motel (no bells and whistles but a decent enough place).

**Nice place to stay:
Hotsprings Lodge ($$$).

Excursion Of The Week.

Excursion Of The Week: Fraser Tubing Hill

One of my all-time favorite things to do in the winter months is to go snow tubing! Usually when I mention "tubing" to my eastcoast cohorts they immediately think of tubing behind a boat or down a river....But here in Colorado, you can go tubing in the summer and the winter!

My favorite place to go tubing is Fraser Tubing Hill, located in the small town of Fraser, just outside of Winter Park.

The hill is a nice size and makes for some decent speeds. They keep the hill groomed, for the most part, so you don't have to worry too much about hitting a big stump or tree. They also have a pulley type of system that pulls you and your tube back up to the top of the hill...if you don't feel like making the trek back up by foot...which is kinda nice!

Also, nearby is the YMCA-Snow Mountain Ranch where you can stay for lodging or other activities, such as an indoor heated pool. There are also several trails for snowmobiling or snow-shoeing (and they provide rentals). There is also a commercialized hot spring nearby called Hot Sulphur Springs, located near Granby.

Hey, it's winter--let's go out and play!

Excursion Of The Week.

(Photo by Patrick Myers)

Trip: Crestone, Sand Dunes National Monument, Zapata Falls

One of my all-time favorite trips will take you about 4 hours southwest of Denver into the San Luis Valley. As you drive through this magnificent valley you will see the Sangre De Cristo ("blood of Christ") mountains on one side and the San Juan mountains on the other. This drive really makes me feel like I am in the Old West... a classic shot of a dusty, rugged and majestic landscape all around.

The destination is twofold: the city of Crestone and then further down the road to the Sand Dunes National Monument.

About Crestone:

The little town of Crestone is mainly made up of a community of New Agers, as some call this area the "crown chakra". I come to Crestone to hike and camp at the North Crestone Creek Campground. This campground is tucked away at the edge of the Rio Grande National Forest. The campsites lie just beside the creek, under a canopy of trees. There is a huge rock wall on the opposite side of the creek that makes for a nice secluded, niche of a camp. So, you can set up camp here and then venture out to some other cool sites not too far away. There are also a couple of hot springs a few minutes drive away...well...more like 20 minutes or so away....

Here are some more details regarding the N. Crestone Creek Campground:
http://gorp.away.com/gorp/publishers/menasha/cmp_colo.htm

Hot Springs Info:

http://www.joyfuljourneyhotsprings.com/
http://www.olt.org/

About the Sand Dunes National Monument:

When I first moved to Denver I had never heard of the Sand Dunes before. Since I am originally from a beachtown, and used to seeing sand dunes, I didn't understand what the draw was....Being as how Denverites seem to make a big deal out of puddles; calling them lakes and such...I figured this was another exaggeration and thought certainly that these sand dunes would really be more like dirt piles....Ummmmmm....I was wrong--completely and totally w-r-o-n-g! The Sand Dunes National Monument should really be called The Sand Dunes Range! These dunes are massive! It took me literally 45+ minutes to hike to the top of a freaking sand dune! The tallest dune is over 750 feet! Seriously, The Sand Dunes National Monument is a spectacular adventure! Come see the tallest dunes in North America!

There are also several campgrounds nearby, including inside of the park. So, if you don't want to drive an hour between the dunes and Crestone than there are some other campground options.

Here is a link for more info about the monument:

http://www.nps.gov/grsa/

http://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm


Zapata Falls:

There is a really cool waterfall that is somewhat inside of a short cave, near the Pinon Flats Campground inside of the park. There is a trail you can take up to the falls or you can access the falls from US Highway 150. Definitely check it out!

http://www.nps.gov/archive/grsa/zapata_falls.htm

Excursion Of The Week: Echo Lake

If you are looking for a fun day trip on the outskirts of Denver, check out Echo Lake. This is one of my favorite day trips because it is near Mt. Evans and Idaho Springs--so many options for activities.

Trip Details:

From Denver, take I-70 west up toward Idaho Springs. Take the exit for Mt. Evans Scenic Byway and drive up the highest paved road in North America (14,130 feet) toward the Mt. Evans Wilderness Area. The road seems to twist and turn for awhile but eventually you'll see Echo Lake on the right. There are parking spots, restrooms, picnic tables, and grills next to the lake.

There are several trails in this area. I really enjoyed the Chicago Lakes Trail. It literally seems to be right on the face of the mountain for parts of the hike. The scenery is beautiful. The trail winds down into the valley and over a stream. The hike back up is a workout, atleast if you are a bit out of shape like myself. :) But if I can do it, you can do it!

Additional activities:

After you finish tromping up and down the trail, if you still have some time and energy you can drive up to the top of Mt. Evans since the entrance station is just up the road. Or, if you're a bit tired and hungry you can head back the way you came and grab a famous mountain pie (what Idaho Spring residents call pizza) at Beaujo's. Actually, I highly recommend a trip to Beaujo's just about any day of the week. They have really great pizza and they are located in the center of Idaho Springs, a cute and historic mountain town.

Then, when you are finished with dinner, you can drive two minutes to the Indian Springs Resort and soak in the hot springs. They have a huge hot spring pool, as well as, individual hot spring tubs, and hot spring caves....but you should know that if you choose the caves option, it is gender specific and your birthday suit is required. So, if you can get over being naked and aren't with anyone of a different gender, then try sitting in a hot spring in an actual geothermal cave.

Have fun!

links:

http://www.indianspringsresort.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echo_Lake

http://www.beaujos.com/

Excursion Of The Week.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Go camping!

Where?
Buena Vista. Camp along Colorado's most popular river rafting destination; the Arkansas River. There are several places to camp in and around Buena Vista. My favorites are Ruby Mountain Campground and Hecla Junction, since they are right on the water. However, there are some less expensive campgrounds in the Chalk Creek area...and, of course, plenty of BLM area; which of course means free!

Details:

The best part of this trip is the scenery! Its absolutely beautiful driving from Denver, along US 285, into the Arkansas Headwaters area. The Collegiate Peaks are stunning! There is a ton of stuff to do in this area. You are in prime rafting territory and you are only 20-30 minutes away from one of the cutest mountain towns around--Salida. The town of Buena Vista is also a good destination if you need some supplies, groceries, or grub. Also, there are several ghost towns nearby to explore, Jeep and ATV rentals, as well as a couple of hot springs in the area. And, of course, plenty of trails to explore. But even more, its a great place to just sit and relax and listen to the rushing water of the Arkansas River.

So, grab your tent, your camera, and GO!

For more information:


http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/ArkansasHeadwaters/MapsandDirections/

http://www.forestcamping.com/dow/rockymtn/siinfo.htm

http://www.mtprinceton.com/

http://www.cottonwood-hot-springs.com/