Family-Friendly Hot Springs in Colorado
As a kid, there was nothing I loved more than swimming, and even today, it’s hard to get me out of a pool. Luckily, we’ve got top-notch hot springs pools in Colorado. Even better, they are located in towns that offer families so much more than just a great soak.
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Photo courtesy of Glenwood Hot Springs
Without a doubt, Glenwood Springs is top-of-the-list when it comes to a hot spring destination that offers families a premier vacation getaway. Glenwood Hot Springs is the picture-perfect example of a family-friendly hot springs pool. It’s got it all, including a fantastic history. Built in 1890, Glenwood Hot Springs has been entertaining families for generations, and the same families for generations. My husband grew up going there and now his sister frequently takes our nieces.
From the children’s wading pool to the water slide, Glenwood Hot Springs is heaven for swim-crazed kids of all ages.
In addition to the pool, Glenwood Springs is a treasure trove of family fun. There’s skiing nearby at Sunlight Mountain Resort and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park will keep your children (and you) entertained for days. From nationally acclaimed thrill rides to unique cave tours, be sure to budget enough time during your Glenwood Springs getaway to explore this Colorado theme park.
OURAY
Photos courtesy of Ouray Hot Springs Pool
The Ouray Hot Springs Pool recently underwent a major remodel that has made this wonderful destination even better. Ouray Hot Springs Pool is actually five pools: the activity pool, lap pool, shallow pool, The Overlook, and the hot pool.
Ouray is surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks, and the view from the Ouray Hot Springs Pool just can’t be beat. Sometimes soakers can see climbers on the rocky slopes that sweep upwards around this small town. Families with avid swimmers in the mix should plan to stay and play all day at Ouray Hot Springs Pool.
In addition to splashing and soaking, Ouray offers an array of other invigorating outdoor activities. During the winter the main draw is Ouray Ice Park, as well as backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. In spring, summer and fall, I highly recommend taking a tour with Alpine Scenic Jeep Tours. I’ve been twice and both were incredibly memorable experiences. Adventurous summer visitors can try canyoning, an increasingly popular activity that involves repelling into waterfalls.
PAGOSA SPRINGS
Whether you’re coming from Colorado’s Front Range, Texas or Arizona, The Springs Resort & Spa is worth the drive. It is, hands down, one of my favorite romantic getaways with my husband, but it’s also a stellar destination for families.
This property is as close to a Mexican-style resort as you’ll find in Colorado. The pools are tiered down to the San Juan River, making it appear like something quite exotic. There’s a canteen where guests can purchase food and drinks, including adult beverages.
As amazing as this place is for couples, their offerings for children who love to swim include the Blue Lagoon, a huge swimming pool. The resort hosts pool movie nights for the kids and live music for adults.
The best part is that your family can stay here. They have various types of rooms, and guests enjoy extended hours to access the pools.
If you do leave the resort, Pagosa Springs is the ultimate outdoorsy family vacation town with skiing in the winter and a river to float in the summer. Whether your family loves to fish or golf or snowshoe, it’s all available in Pagosa Springs.
