Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado

HOT SPRINGS

Along with the valley’s rich mineral varieties, geothermal water also occurs along mountainous fault zones. Chalk Creek, Cottonwood Creek and Poncha Springs all have hot, odorless spring water that has been developed for modern day recreation. The springs were also used in the times of native people and by homesteaders here.

There is nothing quite as ahhh-mazing as warming up, relaxing and rejuvenating chin-deep in blissful natural hot springs. Geothermal-rich Chaffee County has springs of continuous pure, mineral-rich hot water bubbling beneath its surface, inspiring several resorts and a recreation center. From the earliest days, hot springs were believed to have medicinal, therapeutic and spiritual qualities; a gift for body and soul. These odorless steamy pools provide a year-round retreat but are especially appreciated in winter after an adventurous day on the slopes or trails. Our local hot springs businesses all have the wonder-water in common, but each have their own signature styles and amenities, too. Explore them all!

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THREE PUBLIC HOT SPRINGS

Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa

This historic resort, located about five miles from Buena Vista along Cottonwood Creek, first opened in 1878. Surrounded by the San Isabel Forest and the Collegiate Peaks, it is a magical, woodsy and restful setting.

Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center

One of the largest indoor hot springs pools in the country, this is also the only publicly operated aquatic facility within 100 miles. Part of the City of Salida’s Parks and Recreation Department, this family-friendly environment features two hot springs pools filled with mineral-rich water.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

The “hot pots” in Chalk Creek allow a unique and completely natural experience. The resort’s main section features a Historic Bathhouse dating back to 1867 leading to a pair of man-made pools (one for soaking, one for exercise) heated by the natural springs. The Upper Pool area, perfect for active families, offers two additional pools, a lazy river and a 400-foot long waterslide.

The Hottest in Colorado

The hot springs in our area are some of the hottest in Colorado. This geothermal water bubbles out of the ground at 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The hot springs are created by ground water heated by shallow intrusions of magma (molten rock) in this volcanic area.

Our Hot Spring Don’t Stink!

These hot springs are unique because they do not stink. The hot springs are non-sulfurous which, unlike many other hot springs, creates an odor-free mineral water experience.

Healing Powers

Some people swear by the rejuvenating powers of the springs. The mineral content and heat can alleviate many ailments. The hot springs are filled with unique minerals including: Boron, Calcium, Carbonate of Lime, Carbonate of Magnesia, Iron, Potassium Carbonate, Chloride of Potash, Fluoride, Lithium, Sulphate of Sod