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Did you know that Pagosa Springs is home to the deepest hot spring in the world? This snowy Colorado town is filled with cross-country skiing, delicious food, and, most importantly, hot springs. While you cannot soak directly in the deepest hot spring, you can do so at its surrounding pools at The Springs Resort. Here is everything you need to know about one of my favorite hot springs in the United States.
What Is A Hot Spring?
In a hot spring, groundwater is heated by geothermal heat deep within the Earth’s crust. This heated water rises to the surface, forming pools or springs that can be warm or scalding hot.
Hot springs are often valued for their therapeutic and relaxing properties, drawing people seeking relaxation, health benefits, or simply the enjoyment of soaking in naturally heated water.
The Springs Resort & Spa
The Spring Resort & Spa is one of my favorite hot springs! It has everything I could ever ask for, from the large property to the variety of pools. Here is everything you need to know.
The Pools At The Springs Resort
The resort has 25 pools for you to soak in. They all have different temperatures and vibes.
Here are some of the pools that I visited.
Boulder Pool – 102°F
You will see the Boulder Pool as soon as you walk in. The pool is located in the heart of the soaking area, making it the perfect pool to dip into while hopping from pool to pool as you test out different temperatures. With the Boulder Pool, you can meet soakers from near and far in this spacious pool. It is also Ideal for larger groups and socializing.
Aspen Pool – 102°F
Aspen’s the pool for you in the summer when you’re in the mood for live music. It doesn’t hurt that it’s right in the middle next to the Canteen. When you visit in the winter, it will help keep you nice and warm.
Venetian Pool – 104°F
Spend some time soaking while overlooking the river. This pool is hot at 104°F and has fantastic sunset views. Admire the mountains and the river.
The Tranquility Pool – 1054°F
This pool was one of my favorites, with stunning river views. The temperature sits at 105 degrees, making it a perfect soaking temperature for a cold, snowy day.
This pool had some of the best views. The Canteen and Barefoot Grill are just steps away.
The Lobster Pot – 112°F
The hottest pool we went to was the lobster pot, which was also my favorite pool, especially after the cold river plunge.
As you can see, the views here are amazing! We spent most of our time in this pool.
The Cliffs Pool
The most iconic pool at the resort is the Cliffs Pool. This pool features a walkway leading to the small pool at the end, tucked away at the back end of the bridge against a cliff.
Here is a video of my walk to it. It was one of my favorite visits of the entire day.
Benefits Of Minerals At The Springs Resort
The waters at The Springs Resort include
- Sodium is equivalent to the salinity of seawater. Salt soaks have been known to relieve arthritis symptoms.
- Chloride: Provides musculoskeletal benefits.
- Lithium: Produces positive effects on mental balance and gastrointestinal conditions.
- Potassium: Normalizes heart rhythms, assists in reducing high blood pressure, eliminates body toxins, and promotes healthy skin.
- Fluoride: Calcium fluoride is found in the elastic fibers of the skin and the surfaces of bones and teeth. It promotes hardness and stability.
- Manganese: Helps nourish nerves and the brain. It acts as a catalyst in the breakdown of fats and cholesterol.
- Magnesium: Maintains normal heart rhythms, converts blood sugar to energy, and maintains muscle tissue and hormone levels.
- Arsenic: Studies report benefits for plasma and tissue growth.
- Sulfate: Sulfur is an anti-inflammatory that rids the body of toxins and promotes the health of bones, hair, nails, fluids in joints, and vertebral discs.
- Silica 54: Strengthens bones, boosts the immune system, and promotes healthy nerves, mucous membranes, hair, and nails. It is also used to treat acne and migraines.
- Boron: Boosts brain activity, builds muscle mass and strengthens bones.
- Zinc: An antioxidant nutrient, Zinc promotes wound healing, maintains male hormone activity, and aids digestion.
- Iron: Improves the quality of blood and increases resistance to stress and disease. It also prevents fatigue and promotes good skin tone.
The Warrior Plunge
One of my favorite experiences at the resort was taking part in The Warrior Plunge! The plunge takes place daily at noon. All you have to do is meet at the plunge pool, and your guide will lead you through the experience.
You will plunge into the icy cold river, where you will stay for a few minutes. It’s a unique wellness experience that genuinely energizes and prepares you to take on the world after. It is free to plunge, too!
We had about ten people in our group, all terrified. The hardest part is getting into the water. Once you are in, the guide motivates you to stay in the water for a few minutes.
Poolside Service At The Springs Resort
The poolside service was one of my favorite parts of the day here. Servers would come around to take drink orders, or you could visit one of the many bars. We enjoyed a Rum Punch in the pool after taking our Warrior Plunge—a rewarding drink!
The Deepest Hot Spring In The World
The deepest hot spring in the world, known as “The Mother Spring” or “The Source,” is located in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. This outstanding hot spring has been measured to reach depths of over 1,000 feet or 305 meters, making it the deepest known hot spring in the world.
The water emerges from the ground at a scorching temperature of around 144°F or 62°C and is rich in minerals, which are believed to have therapeutic properties.
Visit The Springs Resort & Spa to see Mother Spring for yourself. While you cannot soak directly this spring, you can do so in the surrounding springs with the same mineral water.
How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Springs Resort & Spa?
You have a few different options when it comes to pricing and passes.
General Admission Pass
Available daily. One-time Entry. General Admission provides access to 20 mineral hot springs pools from 9 AM to 9:30 PM. It is a one-time entry with access to food and beverages at the Barefoot Grill. Consider adding a Cabana Rental to your visit for a full day of soaking.
Cost: Adults $67 – Children $35
Relaxation Terrace Package
Available daily. Includes Re-entry. Enhance your hot springs retreat with the Relaxation Terrace Pass. Enjoy access to our 20 General Admission pools with additional access to 5 exclusive pools on the Relaxation Terrace deck. Find true serenity on the Relaxation Terrace, a quiet adults-only area with elevated views of the San Juan River.
Cost: Adults Only $135
You can buy a day pass on their website.
Do You Need Reservations To Visit The Springs Resort?
You do not need a reservation for a specific time; however, you should buy your pass in advance. On busy days, the property can sell out. But if you are visiting on a whim, just stop by the resort, and you may be able to get in.
Where Is The Springs Resort?
The resort and spa is located in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
You must plan a dinner at Meander Riverside Eatery during your visit to Pagosa Springs. You can read about My Experience At Pagosa Spring’s Farm-to-Table Restaurant.
I would recommend cross country skiing during your visit to Pagosa. Check out Cloman Park: Free Cross Country Skiing in Pagosa Springs. You can easily rent skis when visiting, here are The Best Places To Rent Skis In Pagosa Springs.
There is so much to do in Colorado when you visit!
If you visit in summer, try one of the 5 Wildflower Hikes.
Visiting Colorado in winter? Spend your day cross-country skiing at Rocky Mountain National Park.
If you are visiting Pagosa Springs, you can continue to Durango, where you can stay at this glamping cabin!
Where Do You Want To Travel Next?