Did you know there are 29 natural hot spring resorts and spas in Colorado? Seven of those are a two-hour drive from Denver and can be incorporated into a single day trip, the remaining are well worth making it an overnight or more adventure. Of those, we choose three to highlight:
Indian Springs Resort, Idaho Springs
The closest to Denver, this historic site was frequented by Ute and Arapahoe Indians and was first recorded in George A. Jackson’s diary in January of 1859, a few days before finding gold. Records indicate that Frank and Jesse James, William Bonney (Billy the Kid), Sara Bernhardt, Walt Whitman, Baby Doe Tabor, the Vanderbilts and Roosevelts were among the many visitors. Amenities include geo-thermal caves, private baths, outdoor hot tubs, and a mineral water pool. Lodging options range from campsites to resort rooms. At the Spa get the Maize Salt Glo Treatment and/or a massage and exfoliation with corn maize, magnesium, and castor oil. Make your reservations by calling 303-989-6666.
Waunita Hot Springs Ranch
Surrounded by Gunnison National Forest, this remote lodge is an ideal getaway for horseback riding, fishing, and swimming in the hot-springs-fed pool. This family-friendly lodge is a vacation rental, hosting several horseback riding weeks (guests will need to bring their own horses). Please contact them at 970-641-1266 for availability. There are three routes to reach Waunita, a short 1-hour (ish) flight, or two scenic mountain drives coming up CO Highways 285 or 24. This is a destination worthy of repeating as their tagline of “the best week of your year” is justified and has been under operations with the current owners for over 50-years. The lodge in particular boasts units with four-rooms and complete privacy.
Dunton Hot Springs near Telluride
Want to visit a ghost town, but now sure where to go? This is a romantic 1800’s ghost town, set in an extraordinary alpine valley, the entire town can be rented exclusively for corporate retreats, family reunions, and weddings. This all-inclusive resort features private log cabins, mineral-rich hot springs and long-table dinners held in an 1800s saloon. Inside the restored 19th Century bathhouse is the soaking pool or you can explore Colorado’s only geyser located nearby. Create your next adventure, call 928-279-4867.
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Depending on the size of your family, the logistics of mountain travel can be daunting. I know! Being a mountain native, with seven (yes 7 children), figuring out how to not just navigate to the destination, but also how to be a tour guide, an entertainer, the problem solver, and more was a regular exercise. It’s what gives us, Luxury Rides, the experience necessary to create for you a “Transformative Experience.”