Stay & Soak: The Best Hot Springs Just Minutes from Hotel Palomino
Key Takeaways
Orvis Hot Springs offers 10 unique soaking areas with natural lithium-rich waters just minutes from Hotel Palomino in Ridgway, Colorado
Hotel Palomino's exclusive "Stay & Soak" package includes daily hot springs passes and comfortable accommodations at the base of the San Juan Mountains
The San Juan Mountain region boasts several world-class hot springs within a 20-minute drive of your hotel accommodations
Spring and fall offer the ideal balance of pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds for the ultimate hot springs experience
There's nothing quite like slipping into steaming mineral waters while gazing at mountain peaks after a day of Colorado adventures. Just minutes from Hotel Palomino, you'll discover some of the most therapeutic and scenic hot springs in the American West. Hotel Palomino proudly offers a Stay and Soak Hot Springs package that combine comfy accommodations with daily passes to these natural healing waters.
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The Ridgway-Ouray region has been drawing wellness seekers for centuries, from indigenous peoples to Victorian-era health enthusiasts to today's adventure travelers. The unique geothermal activity in the San Juan Mountains creates mineral-rich waters that surface naturally at the perfect soaking temperature. What makes these hot springs truly special isn't just their proximity to Hotel Palomino, but their spectacular mountain settings and varied soaking options for every preference.
Natural Healing Waters: Why Colorado's Hot Springs Are a Must-Visit
Colorado's hot springs aren't just relaxing—they're nature's ancient spa therapy. The geothermal waters bubble up through layers of mineral-rich rock, absorbing elements like lithium, calcium, and magnesium that have been used therapeutically for centuries. These minerals can help soothe sore muscles, improve circulation, and reduce stress—exactly what you need after hiking the area's magnificent trails or skiing the renowned slopes.
The San Juan Mountains region boasts some of the highest concentration of natural hot springs in Colorado, each with unique mineral compositions and settings. Unlike commercialized spa experiences, these hot springs connect you directly with the raw beauty of the Rockies while providing therapeutic benefits you simply can't replicate elsewhere. Many guests report deeper sleep, reduced joint pain, and a profound sense of relaxation after just one soak.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, these hot springs offer incomparable settings for both relaxation and creativity. Imagine floating in steaming waters as snow gently falls on surrounding pines, or watching the alpenglow illuminate mountain peaks while you soak under the open sky. These moments of connection with Colorado's natural splendor are what transform a good vacation into an unforgettable one.
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Orvis Hot Springs: The Crown Jewel Just Minutes from Hotel Palomino
Just a scenic 5-minute drive from Hotel Palomino sits Orvis Hot Springs, the region's premier natural soaking destination. This clothing-optional retreat offers an authentic Colorado experience with minimal commercialization and maximum connection to nature. Nestled at the base of the Cimarron and San Juan peaks, Orvis features natural lithium-rich waters that flow continuously through ten distinct soaking areas, ranging from intimate stone-lined pools to larger ponds surrounded by lush gardens.
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The Clothing-Optional Oasis with 10 Unique Pools
Orvis Hot Springs embraces the European approach to natural bathing with a clothing-optional environment that most guests find surprisingly comfortable after initial adjustment. Each of the ten soaking areas offers a different experience, from the hot 106°F "Lobster Pot" to the refreshing "Cold Plunge" that invigorates the body after intense heat. The "Pond" provides the largest soaking area with underwater rock seating and breathtaking mountain views, while smaller pools like the "Waterfall" offer more intimate settings. The natural rock construction and thoughtful landscaping make each pool feel like a secret discovery rather than a man-made attraction
Natural Lithium Waters and Their Health Benefits
What sets Orvis apart is its naturally occurring lithium content, often called "the happiness mineral" for its mood-stabilizing properties. These waters contain a unique mineral profile that includes lithium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium—all absorbed through the skin during your soak. Regular visitors report improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety, and relief from chronic pain conditions. The waters maintain their natural temperature between 98°F and 106°F year-round, with no artificial heating or chemical treatments required. Learn more about Orvis Hot Springs.
Native peoples considered these springs sacred healing grounds long before European settlement, using them for both physical healing and spiritual ceremonies. Today's visitors often report a similar sense of renewal that goes beyond simple relaxation. The combination of mineral composition, mountain setting, and thoughtful stewardship makes Orvis waters some of the most therapeutic in the Colorado Rockies.
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Indoor vs. Outdoor Soaking Areas
Orvis Hot Springs offers the best of both worlds with its thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor soaking options. The indoor areas provide shelter during inclement weather while maintaining the natural feel with stone floors, wood accents, and plenty of natural light. The 104°F indoor pool features comfortable benches and subdued lighting, creating a cave-like atmosphere perfect for meditation or quiet conversation. For those who prefer climate-controlled environments or winter visitors seeking a break from the snow, these indoor options provide year-round accessibility without sacrificing the therapeutic benefits.
The outdoor pools, however, are where Orvis truly shines. These natural-looking ponds and pools blend seamlessly with the landscaped grounds, creating the sensation of soaking in a pristine mountain stream rather than a manufactured facility. The temperature variations between pools (ranging from 98°F to 106°F) allow visitors to customize their soaking experience based on personal preference and therapeutic needs. Many guests develop a personal "circuit," alternating between different temperature pools to maximize circulation benefits and relaxation.
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More Spectacular Hot Springs Within Easy Reach
While Orvis Hot Springs offers an incomparable experience, Hotel Palomino's prime location puts you within easy driving distance of a couple of other world-class soaking destinations. Each offers a distinct atmosphere and water profile, making it possible to experience a different hot springs adventure each day of your stay. The staff at Hotel Palomino can provide customized driving directions and insider tips for making the most of each unique destination.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool (20 Minutes Away)
Just a scenic 20-minute drive from Hotel Palomino, the historic Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers a family-friendly, swimsuit-required environment with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Recently renovated, the sprawling facility features multiple soaking pools ranging from a refreshing 88°F to a soothing 105°F. Families can enjoy dedicated lap lanes and shallow play areas perfect for young children, while adults seeking tranquility will appreciate the quieter soaking sections. Known for their therapeutic properties, these geothermal waters are especially effective at easing joint inflammation, arthritis symptoms, and sore muscles after a day of hiking or exploring. On-site amenities like a convenient snack bar, fitness center, picnic areas, and massage services make Ouray Hot Springs an ideal destination for a full day of relaxation and family fun, catering perfectly to visitors of all ages and interests.
Best Times to Visit for the Ultimate Soaking Experience
Timing your hot springs visit can dramatically transform your experience. Each season and time of day offers distinct advantages worth considering as you plan your Hotel Palomino stay. The rhythm of the springs changes throughout the day, with different lighting, crowd levels, and atmospheric conditions creating entirely different experiences even at the same location.
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Seasonal Considerations in the San Juan Mountains
Spring (April-June) offers the perfect balance of comfortable daytime temperatures, wildflower blooms surrounding the pools, and relatively smaller crowds. The contrast between cool mountain air and warm waters creates a magical steaming effect that photographers love. Summer brings warmer air temperatures and busier pools, though weekday mornings remain blissfully uncrowded. Fall delivers spectacular foliage around the hot springs, with the golden aspen leaves creating a stunning backdrop for your soak. Winter creates perhaps the most magical experience as snowflakes melt upon contact with the steaming waters, though access roads occasionally require 4WD vehicles after heavy snowfall.
Local wisdom suggests that May through June and September through October hit the sweet spot for visiting Ouray Hot Springs.
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Early Morning Magic: Sunrise Soaking
For early risers, the 6-8am window offers an almost religious experience at most hot springs. Steam rises dramatically in the cool morning air, and you'll often have entire sections of the springs to yourself. The first golden rays of sunlight cresting the mountain ridges while you soak in mineral-rich waters creates a multisensory experience that many guests describe as the highlight of their Colorado visit. Guests who book Hotel Palomino’s Stay & Soak package enjoy guaranteed access when Orvis opens for the day, making it easy to begin your morning with a peaceful soak as steam rises into the crisp mountain air.
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Stargazing Night Sessions: The Ultimate Relaxation
There's something profoundly moving about floating in warm waters under the vast Colorado night sky. The San Juan Mountains' remote location and high altitude create ideal conditions for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and crystalline air clarity. Hotel Palomino's Stay & Soak package includes extended hours access at Orvis Hot Springs, allowing guests to experience the pools under starlight until midnight. During meteor showers like the Perseids (August) or Geminids (December), advance reservations are recommended as these celestial events draw astronomy enthusiasts from across the region.
What to Pack for Your Hot Springs Adventure
Don't forget to bring a towel
Sunscreen to protect your skin from sun exposure
Flip-flops or water shoes for navigating between pools
Insulated water bottle to maintain hydration
Silicone or plastic bag for wet swimwear
Moisturizer for post-soak skin care (mineral waters can be drying)
Lightweight robe for transitions between pools
Waterproof case for phone/camera
Turn Your Hot Springs Visit into a Complete Wellness Retreat
While simply soaking in the mineral waters provides tremendous benefits, thoughtful travelers can transform their hot springs experience into a comprehensive wellness retreat.
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Adding Massage Therapy to Your Soak
The therapeutic effects of mineral soaking are significantly amplified when paired with professional massage therapy. Orvis Hot Springs offers an exceptional massage program with therapists specializing in everything from deep tissue to Thai massage. The ideal sequence is to soak for 20-30 minutes before your massage appointment, allowing the mineral water to loosen muscles and prepare your body for deeper therapeutic work.
Many guests report that massage after mineral soaking provides relief from chronic conditions that haven't responded to other treatments. The combination works synergistically, the minerals prepare your tissues while the massage helps your body process and eliminate toxins released during soaking.
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Pairing with Local Hiking Trails
The mountains surrounding Hotel Palomino offer hiking experiences for every fitness level, from gentle wildflower meadow walks to challenging summit ascents. Local guides recommend what they call the "hike and soak" approach—moderate morning hiking followed by afternoon soaking to recover. This natural rhythm allows you to experience the region's spectacular landscapes while using the hot springs' therapeutic properties to eliminate post-hike soreness.
After challenging your body on the trail, returning to soak in mineral waters creates a profound sense of accomplishment and restoration.
Why These Natural Hot Springs Should Top Your Colorado Bucket List
Colorado offers many extraordinary experiences, but few match the unique combination of natural beauty, physical rejuvenation, and cultural authenticity found at these hot springs near Hotel Palomino. Unlike heavily commercialized tourist attractions, these springs connect you to both the natural landscape and the region's healing traditions that span centuries. Visitors consistently report that their hot springs experiences become treasured memories that draw them back to the region repeatedly. The combination of mineral-rich waters, breathtaking mountain settings, and the range of soaking options creates an experience that simply can't be replicated elsewhere. Whether you're seeking physical healing, mental restoration, or simply a profound connection with nature, these hot springs deliver transformative experiences that exemplify the best of Colorado's natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
As specialists in hot springs getaways, the Hotel Palomino team has compiled answers to the most common questions guests ask before planning their soaking adventures
Here are the questions we hear most frequently, along with insider guidance to help you plan the perfect hot springs getaway:
Are the hot springs safe for children to visit?
Each hot spring has different policies regarding children. While Orvis technically allows children when accompanied by parents, it is primarily an adult-oriented, clothing-optional facility and may not be suitable for families. For a more family-friendly experience, we recommend Ouray Hot Springs. Ouray Hot Springs is extremely family-friendly with dedicated children's areas maintained at safer temperatures (around 88°F compared to the hotter adult pools). For families, we generally recommend Ouray Hot Springs for its comprehensive facilities and family-oriented atmosphere. Parents should always closely supervise children around hot water and limit soaking time for young ones to 15-20 minute sessions with plenty of hydration breaks.
What minerals are found in these hot springs and what are their benefits?
The hot springs near Hotel Palomino contain varying mineral profiles, but most are rich in lithium, calcium, magnesium, and various trace minerals. Lithium is particularly noted for its mood-stabilizing properties and is often called "the original anti-depressant." Calcium and magnesium help relieve muscle tension and promote bone health, while sodium and potassium help balance electrolytes. Sulfur compounds found in some of the springs have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can benefit skin conditions. Many guests report improved sleep quality, reduced joint pain, enhanced circulation, and mental clarity after regular soaking. The natural, unprocessed nature of these minerals makes them more bioavailable than supplements, allowing for absorption directly through the skin during your soak.
Can I visit multiple hot springs in one day from Hotel Palomino?
Yes, visiting 2-3 hot springs in a single day is entirely possible due to their proximity to Hotel Palomino
A popular combination is morning at Orvis (clothing optional), afternoon at Ouray (family friendly), and evening back at Orvis for stargazing
Each facility has its own pricing structure. While there’s no official multi-spring pass, visiting multiple locations in one day is easy due to how close they are to the hotel.
Allow 20-30 minutes driving time between locations and plan for adequate rest/hydration between soaks
When planning a multi-spring day, we recommend limiting total soaking time to 3-4 hours spread throughout the day to prevent dehydration and mineral overload.
Many photographers enjoy visiting different springs at optimal lighting times—Orvis at sunrise, Ouray during midday when the mountain backdrop is fully illuminated, and returning to a more intimate spring for sunset colors. This approach maximizes both the therapeutic benefits and the photographic opportunities of each unique location.
To respect each spring’s unique mineral composition and maintain water quality, it's a good practice to rinse off between visits. Some facilities offer on-site showers for this purpose.
Do I need to make reservations for the hot springs in advance?
Reservation requirements vary by service. While reservations are not required for general soaking entry at either hot spring, advance booking is strongly recommended for massage services, as appointments fill quickly. Guests who book the Stay & Soak package at Hotel Palomino receive guaranteed daily soaking passes to Orvis Hot Springs. Massage appointments are booked separately and should be scheduled directly with Orvis. If you're planning to visit during busy holiday weekends such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Labor Day, we suggest scheduling massage services directly with the hot springs at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
Experience the perfect combination of comfortable accommodations and natural healing waters with Hotel Palomino's Stay and Soak Hot Springs package. Book your rejuvenating mountain retreat today and discover why our guests keep returning for the ultimate Colorado soaking experience. Book Now →
