5 Natural Hot Springs Near Buena Vista Perfect for Soaking

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In between the towns of Buena Vista, Nathrop and Salida you’ll find some of the most scenic and secluded hot springs resorts. 

Complete with many different lodging options and mountain views, these hot springs destinations in Colorado are a must-visit.

Some of the hot springs near Buena Vista mentioned in this list are open to the public, while others have private access only.

Enjoy a therapeutic soak in a public hot springs pool, or book a personal cabin with your own private soaking pool.

1. Mount Princeton Hot Springs (Public)

By far one of the largest hot springs near Buena Vista is Mount Princeton Hot Springs. It features a variety of natural mineral waters for soaking and swimming, including creekside access.

One of our favorite things is to take a day trip to Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort and soak in the water bubbling up in the Chalk Creek. 

The resort is family friendly and has three large swimming pools all kept at different temperatures. So, you’re bound to find the perfect pool for relaxing.

The natural hot springs resort offers several overnight options including rooms at the Lodge, hillside rooms and even private cabins.

An overnight stay includes free access to all of the hot springs pools and creek, as well as a beautiful restaurant and on-site spa treatments.

Address: 15870 CO Rd 162, Nathrop, CO 81236

Distance from Buena Vista: 9 miles 

2. Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa (Public)

As one of the closest hot springs near Buena Vista, Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa is a true relaxation getaway.

Only a short drive from the town, it is a local favorite thanks to being less touristy and a place where visitors can unplug from Wifi.

The unique thing about the Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa is that you can truly unplug and unwind. When staying at one of the creekside cabins, there are no phones, no Wifi service and no TVs for distractions.

The Inn features a collection of soaking pools with a range of temperatures for different levels of enjoyment.

If you don’t want to share the public pools with others, you can book a cabin on site which comes with a private hot springs pool.

All overnight guests receive after-hours access to use the hot springs pools, or check out the dry sauna. 

Continuing down the same county road, you’ll find the historic Cottonwood Pass with plenty of hiking, lakes, and other scenery to explore.

Address: 18999 Co Rd 306, Buena Vista, CO 81211

Distance from Buena Vista: 5.5 miles 

3. Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center (Public)

Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is known for having the largest indoor hot springs in the United States.

The indoor structure is home to two pools, with temperatures around 85 degrees, and has a vaulted ceiling with massive windows.

As an aquatic center it offers water yoga, fitness classes, and even kayak lessons during the summer.

But it can also be a relaxing place to get in a few laps while enjoying the warm mineral waters.

Salida is one of the must-see towns that we recommend when planning your next southern Colorado road trip.

Address: 410 W Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201

Distance from Buena Vista: 27.7 miles 

4. Merrifield Homestead Cabins & Hot Springs (Private)

A lesser-known hot springs near Buena Vista is the Merrifield Homestead Cabins. These private cabins are available for rent, each with their own hot tubs for overnight guests. 

These rustic cabins come with all the modern-day amenities while still being tucked away for a private escape to nature.

The property consists of two main cabins with beautiful views of the Collegiate Peaks Mountain Range.

If you’re looking to relax in a private natural hot water spring overlooking Cottonwood Creek, then the Merrifield Homestead Cabins is a great find. 

Spend a day exploring the historic downtown area of Buena Vista, then soak up the hot mineral waters in your own private cabin at night.

Address: 19320 C.R. 306 Buena Vista, CO 81211

Distance from Buena Vista: 5.7 miles

5. Antero Hot Springs Cabins (Private)

Another private hot springs escape near Buena Vista is the Antero Hot Springs Cabins. Named for the nearby Mt Antero, the cabins have been dubbed a “legendary Colorado relaxation destination”. 

There are three private cabins available to book, each with their own hand-carved hot springs pool.

The water is low in sulfur so it does not have a strong odor like other hot springs, but still full of 15 different minerals.

The mineral water temperatures vary from 100-112 degrees depending on the pool. And since you have your own private cabin and soaking pool, clothing is optional if you choose.

The Antero Cabins are located in the San Isabel National Forest in the heart of some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery. Bighorn sheep, mountain goats, deer and elk can be seen frequently on and around the property.

Antero Hot Springs Cabins are typically booked out a few months in advance so if you’re planning a trip, be sure to do so quickly.

Address: 16120 Co Rd 162, Nathrop, CO 81236

Distance from Buena Vista: 9 miles

That completes our list of the closest hot springs to Buena Vista and Salida. We hope this gives you some inspiration to visit some of Colorado’s best hot springs destinations in the state.