Steamboat Springs, Colorado is well-known for being a laid back ski and snowboard location due to not being as ritzy or huge as nearby Vail and Keystone, while still providing great snow and a fun downtown area. The prime skiing and snowboarding causes visitors to the city to sometimes forget the second half of its name, ‘Springs’. Steamboat Springs gets its name from being located on numerous natural hot springs. Here are a couple of the most popular ones to visit with tips on how to make the most of your time at the hot springs.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is about a 20-minute drive outside of downtown Steamboat, but is worth it for the gorgeous scenery surrounding it. This hot springs location is kept very natural, with just a stone changing house and tipi right next to the springs. There is a large main hot spring, plus several smaller, more secluded areas that are ideal for those looking for a peaceful, romantic respite in the mountain. Think a hot tub next to a pool – only it’s all hot. Nearby, you’ll also find restrooms and private rooms for those who would like a massage.
Health Tip: For cardiovascular health, try sitting in the ice cold stream next to the hot springs for one full minute after getting your body temperature up in the hot springs as it is said to improve one’s circulation. Even if you can’t last longer than a few seconds in the icy water, it will still make you feel revived and energized.
Late Night Tip: This hot spring location stays open late and is ‘clothing optional’ after dark, and once the sun goes down only adults 18 and older are allowed. If you’re one who decides to discard your swimsuit, be careful on nights during a full moon – it’s not as dark as you think!
Lodging Tip: Want more time at the hot springs? Strawberry Park Hot Springs offers nearby cabins and campsites for guests wanting to spend the night in the Colorado wilderness.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs Visitor Info
Address: 44200 County Road #36, Steamboat Springs
Open Times: Sunday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. with last entry at 9:30 p.m.; Friday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 12 a.m. with last entry at 10:30 p.m.
Cost: Adults, $10; teens (13-17), $7; kids (3-12), $5. Cash only.
Old Town Hot Springs
For those looking for more entertainment during their hot springs time or something in town, the Old Town Hot Springs – located just outside the downtown area of Steamboat Springs – is the way to go. Old Town Hot Springs has created more of a resort feel with eight hot spring-fed pools. Families with children will particularly enjoy the onsite childcare and waterslides to keep the kids busy and having fun.
Health Tip: You can get a workout with your hot springs time by checking when the Old Town Hot Springs Aquatics Classes are held and participating in one during your time there. Participating in a workout class is an extra fee.
Old Town Hot Springs Visitor Info
Address: 136 Lincoln Avenue, Steamboat Springs
Open Times: All facilities excluding waterslides: Weekdays, 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sunday, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Waterslides facility: Winter, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Summer (Memorial Day – Labor Day), 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.; September: Saturday – Sunday, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Pool access for adults is $16 and children ages three to 17 is $6. Waterslides are an additional $6.
When your muscles are aching from a day of swishing down the ski hill, take the time to soothe them in one of Steamboat Springs’ natural hot springs. You’ll leave Steamboat Springs relaxed and rejuvenated.
