Why a Longer Vacation is a Good Idea For a hot springs trip, (maybe a week or two weeks) is much better than a short one.

• More Relaxation: You have more time to truly relax and let the warm water help your body.

• More Healing: The minerals in the water can help your muscles and skin. With more time, you can feel these benefits more deeply.

• More Fun: You can try different pools, enjoy spa treatments, and do many other fun activities nearby.

• Less Stress: You don't need to rush. You can enjoy each day slowly and peacefully.

Different Kinds of Hot Springs

Colorado has many types of hot springs, so you can choose what you like best:

• Luxury Resorts: These are big places with many pools, nice rooms, spas, and restaurants. They are very comfortable.

• Rustic Retreats: These places are more natural and quiet. They might have simpler rooms, but they are very peaceful.

• Wild Springs: These are natural pools in nature. You often need to hike to reach them. They are for people who love adventure and nature.

Great Hot Springs for a Longer Stay

Let's look at some popular hot springs in Colorado that are wonderful for a long vacation:

Glenwood Springs

This place has the world's largest mineral hot springs pool. It is open all year. The water has 15 good minerals that help your body. You can stay at the resort in new rooms. There are also many fun things to do nearby, like visiting Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, biking, and river activities.

Pagosa Springs

Here, you can find the "Mother Spring," which is the deepest hot spring on Earth. The Springs Resort has over 50 pools with different temperatures. The water has 13 minerals that are good for your skin, blood pressure, and energy. You can also do wellness activities like Aqua Yoga. Many rooms have kitchens, which is great for longer stays. You can also hike, bike, or ski in the beautiful San Juan Mountains.

Durango Hot Springs

This is a modern and luxurious place with over 40 water features and 32 mineral pools. It uses a special system called AquaGen, so the water is very clean and has no bad smell. They have pools for families and separate pools for adults. Lodging will be available soon, and it's close to a ski resort.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs (Nathrop)

This resort has beautiful views of the mountains. You can enjoy many pools, including some next to a creek. They have different types of rooms and cabins for guests. If you stay there, you can get free mountain bike or snowshoe rentals, which is great for exploring. You can also visit old ghost towns or go fishing.

Cottonwood Hot Springs (Buena Vista)

This is a rustic and peaceful place with pure, natural water that has no harsh chemicals. They have soaking tubs, a river plunge, and a dry sauna. You can stay in lodge rooms, private cabins, or even RV/tent sites. It's a good choice for a quiet, natural long vacation.

Joyful Journey Hot Springs (Moffat)

This is a peaceful spa retreat in the San Luis Valley. The water has lithium, which is known to help your mood. They have unique places to stay like yurts and tipis. If you stay overnight, two meals (breakfast and dinner) are usually included. It's also close to the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs)

This is a secluded and rustic place with beautiful stone pools. You can stay in private cabins or camp. The cabins do not have electricity or Wi-Fi, which is perfect if you want to disconnect from technology. It's a great place to relax after skiing or hiking.

Important note: In winter (November to May), you need a 4-wheel drive car with snow tires or chains to get there.

Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa

This is a historic and rustic hot springs with 20 pools. The water is 100% natural, with no chemicals or filters. If you stay in their motel or cabins, pool passes are included. It's less than 40 minutes from ski resorts and offers good fishing.

Indian Hot Springs (Idaho Springs)

This historic hot springs is only about 30 minutes from Denver. It has a special indoor swimming pool with tropical plants, private tubs, and soaking pools inside geo-thermal caves. You can stay in rooms, suites, or cabins. Nearby, you can learn about mining history or go skiing.

Dunton Hot Springs (Rico)

This is a very special and luxurious resort. It is a restored 19th-century ghost town deep in the mountains. Your stay includes all meals and drinks. You can enjoy many activities like horseback riding, fly fishing, and rock climbing. It is also pet-friendly.

Planning Your Perfect Long Vacation

To make your long hot springs vacation great, here are some tips:

Where to Stay:

Many hot springs have rooms, suites, or cabins. Some even have kitchens, which can save you money on food. Some places also have RV or tent camping if you like nature.

What to Do Besides Soaking:

• Winter: Go skiing, snowshoeing, or ice climbing near many hot springs.

• Summer: Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, rafting, kayaking, or fishing.

• Other Fun: Explore charming towns, visit museums, or try unique activities like hot air balloon rides.

When to Visit:

• For fewer people, try visiting during the week or in the spring or fall.

• Winter is great for a "ski and soak" trip.

• Always check the weather and road conditions, especially in winter, as some roads may require special tires or vehicles.

Important Tips:

• Make reservations, especially for popular places and busy times.

• You can usually bring a refillable water bottle, but outside food and alcohol are often not allowed in pool areas.

• If you have a pet, check the hot spring's rules carefully, as policies are different everywhere.

Enjoy Your Trip!

Colorado's hot springs offer a wonderful chance to relax, heal, and have fun for a longer time. With so many different places and activities, you can plan a perfect vacation that fits your needs. Enjoy the beautiful nature and the warm, healing waters!

Want to discuss this topic even more?  Take a lesson with me and we can talk more about Hot Springs!