Hot Springs Guide
For the best hot springs experience, we recommend heading to Pagosa Springs. If you’ve spent time at the Sand Dunes, Hooper Hot Springs makes the perfect relaxing stop on your way back.
Hooper Hot Springs
Hooper Hot Springs, officially known as Sand Dunes Recreation, is a family-friendly geothermal oasis nestled in Colorado’s San Luis Valley. Fed by a 118°F artesian well discovered in the 1930s, the facility features a large outdoor pool maintained between 98°F and 102°F, a 24-person therapy pool at 108°F to 109°F, and a children’s pool. The adults-only Greenhouse area offers a tropical retreat with multiple soaking pools, a dry sauna, and the Steel Box Bar serving libations and upscale eats. Visitors can also enjoy amenities like the Mile Deep Grille, picnic areas, and lodging options including cabins, RV, and tent sites. Located at 1991 County Road 63 in Hooper, CO, Sand Dunes Recreation provides a relaxing experience year-round.
Check hours on their website before visiting. During winter, they host Family Night every Thursday with a $9 admission per person.
Joyful Journey
Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa is a tranquil, adult-oriented retreat in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, offering three outdoor geothermal pools with soothing mineral waters ranging from 98°F to 108°F. The peaceful atmosphere is complemented by wellness amenities like a dry sauna, cold plunge, spa treatments, and yoga classes, all set against panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Parts of the facility are clothing-optional.
The Springs Resort
The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs offers over 25 mineral-rich soaking pools fed by the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring. With temperatures ranging from 35°F to 112°F, guests can enjoy a variety of relaxing and therapeutic experiences. The resort also features wellness activities, a panoramic sauna, and both family-friendly and adult-only soaking areas. Adult day passes can range from $67-$119.
Overlook Hot Springs Spa
Overlook Hot Springs Spa in Pagosa Springs offers a tranquil soaking experience in a charming Victorian-style setting. Guests can relax in rooftop tubs with scenic views of the San Juan River and surrounding mountains, as well as enjoy indoor pools, courtyard tubs, and a private soaking room. The spa also provides massage services and allows guests to enjoy beer or wine while soaking. Located in downtown Pagosa Springs, Overlook Hot Springs Spa is open daily and welcomes visitors year-round.
Hippy Dip
Don’t worry—these hot springs are clothing-required, despite the nickname locals use. They’re our go-to spot: clean, free, and often quiet enough to find your own private pool on a weekday. Park across from Overlook Hot Springs and head down the ramp; just follow the steam. Be sure to bring water, a robe, and sandals for comfort.
