Healing Waters

People have been enjoying hot springs since well before the advent of civilization. It’s a steamy tradition that spans the ages and continues to be a staple for spas, resorts and campgrounds around the world. Some people swear by the rejuvenating powers of geothermal springs. Soaking is not only relaxing, but it can also have health benefits.

RENEW YOUR SKIN

Soaking in hot springs can be a great way to naturally detoxify the dermis, and the high silica content can smooth and soften the driest, roughest skin. Meanwhile, the mineral content of a sulfur spring has been shown to help chronic conditions such as psoriasis, acne and eczema.

IMPROVE CIRCULATION

When soaking in a hot spring, there’s a boost in the hydrostatic pressure all around the body. In simpler terms, when you enter a pool, it improves blood flow which increases cardiac output and metabolism. This is due, in part, to the heavy mineral content of the water being soaked up by our bodies, improving circulation and overall oxygen flow.

DESTRESS FOR QUALITY REST

Hot springs waters reduce stress by relaxing tense muscles. Additionally, the body temperature rises during a soak then cools upon exit, which can relax the mind and body for a more restful night’s sleep. In fact, it’s been shown that people who bathe in hot water sleep more soundly and have lower levels of stress. The study by the National Library of Medicine even suggests that hotwater bathers have good subjective health and happiness in general.

RELIEVE PAIN

Soaking in a hot spring can reduce pain and ease the fatigue caused by chronic pain. The heat of the water blocks pain receptors, while buoyancy allows for free movement and joint support. Even people with ailments as severe as arthritis and fibromyalgia have seen pain mitigated after soaking. In fact, the treatment of ailments with hot sulfur water has such a rich history, we even have a word for it: balneotherapy. disclaimer: It’s always recommended that you talk with your physician before taking up a hot springs habit, to ensure that the practice is safe for you.

Historic Hot Springs Loop

Here in Colorado, the abundance of healing waters are sourced from deep within the Rocky Mountains. The best way to experience some of the finest pools the state has to offer is by traveling the Historic Hot Springs Loop. This five city, 720mile loop showcases 19 of the most popular hot springs attractions in the country. Choose from destinations like Steamboat Springs, Ouray and Ridgway, Glenwood Springs, Pagosa Springs and Chaffee County. Each facility offers features unique to them. Enjoy free primitive pools, vapor caves, hot pots, terraced pools, enormous travertine formations or the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool.

soak in natural hot springs

Southwest Colorado has an abundance of geothermal springs heated by the Earth’s mantle. For thousands of years, Indigenous people and travelers alike have used these springs to enhance health and encourage healing. To complement the benefits of soaking in the springs, many resorts offer spa services for guests to relax and rejuvenate after a long day. Stop and soak in the benefits of these pools in peaceful places.

DURANGO HOT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

6475 County Road 203, Durango (970) 247-0111 www.durangohotsprings resortandspa.com

Durango Hot Springs Resort and Spa is newly renovated. The amenities include soaking tubs, mineral pools and a saltwater swimming pool. In addition to soaking and swimming, guests can enjoy a variety of spa services on site including facial scrubs, massages and body wraps.

HEALING WATERS RESORT & SPA

317 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs (970) 264-5910 www.pshotsprings.com

This facility includes a large, outdoor swimming pool, an outdoor hot tub and separate indoor hot baths for men and women. Professional spa services, including therapeutic massage, acupressure and cupping, are also available at Healing Waters Massage.

ORVIS HOT SPRINGS

1585 County Road 3, Ridgway (970) 626-5324 www.orvishotsprings.com

Orvis Hot Springs is a clothing optional resort featuring seven outdoor soaking ponds and three indoor pools with temperatures ranging from 98 to 112 degrees. Pair a soak with a therapeutic massage in a cozy yurt.

OURAY HOT SPRINGS POOL & FITNESS CENTER

1200 Main St., Ouray (970) 325-7073 www.ourayhotsprings.com

This recently renovated facility gives guests several soaking options, even in the off-season. The shallow pool, the lap pool and the hot pool are open year-round with water temperatures ranging from 78 to 106 degrees. For an additional cost, customers can access the fitness center or receive spa services, such as massages and body wraps.

OVERLOOK HOT SPRINGS

432 Pagosa St., Pagosa Springs (970) 264-4040 www.overlookhotsprings.com

Soak up the view of downtown Pagosa Springs, while lounging in the scenic rooftop tubs surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. Overlook also features five indoor pools, and private tub rooms. The in-house spa provides Swedish, deep-tissue, prenatal and hot-stone massages, as well as body scrubs and mud wraps.

THE SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

165 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs (970) 264-4168 www.pagosahotsprings.com

The Springs Resort features 24 geothermal pools for the public to enjoy with water temperatures range from 83 to 114 degrees. The facility also offers guests a full-service spa. Pahgosa Spa pampers customers with body treatments, facials and hair, skin and nail services.

WIESBADEN HOT SPRINGS SPA & LODGING

625 Fifth St., Ouray (970) 325-4347 www.wiesbadenhotsprings.com

The Wiesbaden Hot Springs is a historic location with continually flowing mineral waters ranging in temperature from 85 to 134 degrees. Guests can enjoy the large pool surrounded by beautiful views, or soak in a private pool for an additional fee. Customers can also seek spa services and relax inside the unique vapor cave located beneath the main lodge.