1. Clothing is mandatory in all hot springs in Buena Vista, Salida and Nathrop. Always bring a hat, towel, sandals, sunscreen and a robe.
2. Book a room or cabin at Cottonwood Hot Springs or Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort and the hot springs are included. At the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center there are 100’s of rooms within walking distance to the hot springs.
3. Bring the family: Kids of all ages are welcome in all the hot springs. During the summer Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort has a 400 foot water slide. The Salida Aquatic Center has a water slide and diving board that are open year-round.
4. Traveling without kids? Check out the Spa & Club at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort it is reserved for adults 16 and above. Cottonwood Hot Springs are adults only after dark.
5. Get to the hot springs early. The early morning steam is amazing and you should have first pick of the hot springs.
6. Check out the hot springs at night. You will have incredible views of the stars and everyone looks betting in the hot springs in the dark.
7. Get a spa treatment at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort or Cottonwood Hot Springs and your soak is included.
8. Digital Detox: Leave your digital devices at home, be in the moment and enjoy the experience with someone you love.
9. Outdoor Adventures: There is no better way to relax in the hot springs than after an outdoor adventure. 80% of Chaffee County is public lands and home to more 14,000 foot peaks than anywhere else in North America. Like to snowmobile, dog sled or ski? Plan your winter getaway visiting nearby Monarch Mountain. Fishing, Mountain Biking and Ziplining are available year-round.
10. Private Hot Springs: Rent your own private hot springs at one of the vacation rentals located in Nathrop, Colorado between Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado. The Salida Aquatic Center, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort or Cottonwood Hot Springs each have private soaking pools.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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
Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce
111 E Main St
Buena Vista, CO 81211
Salida Chamber of Commerce
406 W Rainbow Blvd.
Salida, CO 81201
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