14 W E S T W O R D W i n t e r G u i d e 2 0 2 4 - 2 5 westword.com Take the Plunge TEN COLORADO HOT SPRINGS TO VISIT THIS WINTER. BY A BIG A IL B L IS S As the snow falls, it’s time to get into hot water — specifi cally, one of Colorado’s amazing hot springs. While these outdoor destinations are open year-round, they hold a particular magic during the winter months. Soak beneath the falling fl akes while remaining perfectly comfortable in just a swimsuit — or nothing at all. There are hot springs all over the state — some too secret to reveal here, some adult-only escapes, others longtime family favorites and still more updated tourist at- tractions. Here are ten you’ll want to visit: Charlotte Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens 19256 County Road 343, Buena Vista 719-395-6015 coloradohotspringsresort.com Charlotte Hot Springs is the latest resort to open in Colorado, having debuted in Buena Vista in March. Its three sparkling outdoor baths offer a “boutique” experi- ence that differs from the nearby popu- lar pools beneath Mount Princeton. The greenhouse is fi lled with tropical plants as well as shower and changing facilities, complete with lockers and towel rentals. Walk-ins are welcome; day passes are $30 per adult Monday through Thursday and $35 Friday through Sunday. Desert Reef Hot Spring 1194 County Road 110, Florence 719-784-6134 desertreefhotspring.com A few years back, Desert Reef Hot Spring was a diamond in the rough. But with a bit of polishing and a few shiny Airstreams, it’s become a modern getaway with tons of character that allows you to catch a concert or fi lm screening while soaking in one of fi ve pools. Temperatures are adjusted seasonally, and travertine gives the water a turquoise hue similar to the wide, open sky above. During most hours, swimsuits are optional here; strip down if that’s your style. Three-hour sessions are $25 Monday through Thursday and Friday before 4 p.m.; costs rise to $35 Friday evening through Sunday. Make reservations online. Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa 6475 County Road 203, Durango 970-247-0111 durangohotspringsresortandspa.com Changes in ownership and extensive recent renovations have completely re- vitalized Durango Hot Springs. It now features 32 pools — more than at any other Colorado resort — and each is fi lled with oxygenated, mineral-rich spring water. Dip into its walk-in swimming pool, take advantage of options exclusive to adults, or try the two cold plunges or one of fi ve private ofuro wood tubs. Spa services like massages and organic facials add to the experience — which, depending on your mood, can be a silent retreat or a fun experience with friends. This winter, Durango Hot Springs will upgrade and weatherize its outdoor stage, allowing for live music events throughout the season. Book your two-hour soaking session online for $39 per adult or select a three-hour session for $49. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort 401 North River Street, Glenwood Springs 970-945-6571 hotspringspool.com Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is famed for having the world’s largest hot springs pool, and this year, it premiered its fi ve new Yampah mineral baths. Gaze at the Rocky Mountains beyond its infi nity pool, listen to the calming sounds of falling water, then awaken your senses with a cold plunge. The resort also features a hot therapy pool with steamy 104-degree water, plus a kid-friendly Sopris Splash Zone during the summer months. Day passes are $34 per adult on weekdays and $46 on weekends, and re-entry is permitted throughout the day. Come spring 2025, the resort will open Hotel 1888, a sixteen-room luxury boutique hotel set poolside within the former Spa of the Rockies building. Iron Mountain Hot Springs 281 Centennial Street, Glenwood Springs 970-945-4766 ironmountainhotsprings.com Iron Mountain Hot Springs debuted its eleven WorldSprings pools last season, and although they lie along the Colorado River, their mineral makeup indicates otherwise. One heart-shaped pool trans- ports guests to central France, where geothermal waters are rich in calcium, magnesium and bicarbonate. Another mimics Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, while the large two-level pool mirrors the salty Dead Sea, giving soakers a unique sense of buoyancy. Lift your spirits higher with a drink from the bar — this new area is 21-plus. But families can enjoy the nineteen other pools included in general admission, which starts at $44 for a three- hour soak. WorldSprings access costs an additional $15. Iron Mountain Hot Springs expanded in 2024. IRON MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS continued on page 16
