Other-worldly, serene, meditative, healing – all of these adjectives have been accurately used to describe The Springs Resort, a unique tranquil wellness destination that’s tucked away in the majestic Rocky Mountains of Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
Situated along the picturesque San Juan River, this remote and rustic resort features 25 naturally-heated geothermal pools of various sizes and shapes, perched on a multitude of outdoor terraces overlooking a stunning vista. That view includes the quaint town of Pagosa Springs, known for its 300-plus days of sunshine each year. On chilly days, the scene can be described as truly magical, with steam slowly rising from these warm, mineral-rich waters against the blue sky, creating an ethereal panorama.
Travelers and spa-goers who make thermal spas a part of their regular routine are probably familiar with hydrotherapy treatments offered at spas across the world. However, “balneotherapy” is the official term for soaking in thermal waters, which usually contain a number of minerals, such as salts, sulfur and other organic elements. According to the Global Wellness Summit, balneotherapy stems from the ancient traditions of using waters for wellness.
Sharon Holtz, the Director of Resort Wellness at The Springs, claims, “There are so many health benefits from geothermal bathing and there’s more and more research coming out every day reinforcing this. Soaking in geothermal water stimulates the body’s immune system, increases your blood circulation and helps to rid the body of toxins, so it’s wonderful to plan your trip around a geothermal spa retreat.”
The Mother Spring is the deepest in the world
The Springs Resort is considered unparalleled, as it’s home to the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring (over 1,002 feet deep and authenticated by Guinness World Records). Known as the Mother Spring, this bubbling pool that’s 144 degrees Fahrenheit is much too hot for soaking, but it feeds the 24 other nearby pools, which range in temperature from 80 to 114 degrees. The Springs Resort is just one of many spots in the area to receive water from this artisanal Mother Spring, which also provides heat to area schools and other buildings.
Holtz explains, “Due to depth of the Mother Spring, and the unique composition of our minerals, we found that guests often travel here for soaking – even if they live closer to other hot springs.”
Soaking de-stresses
The resort has evolved slowly over the years. Centuries ago, the springs were used by Indigenous tribes, and the name “Pagosa” is derived from the Native American Ute word for “healing waters.” The earliest incarnation of the spa was in the 1800s, and the first modest hotel was built in the 1950s. After a number of changes, renovations and additions, the resort today has several buildings (the most recent from 2008) and features 79 rooms.
According to Holtz, The Springs is a one-of-a-kind resort because it features a unique combination of wilderness, natural beauty and the distinctive mineral content of the hot springs. She says, “There’s really something special about our location because it’s surrounded by mountains, and the river is just steps away from the pools. Soaking here really transports you to another place. Both the physical and mental stress just melts away.”
Although the resort is secluded, and considered a destination resort for many, it’s open to everyone and offers a family-friendly ambiance.
Holtz points out that the resort has a strong commitment to the community. “We have a contingent of local members who take full advantage of coming to soak multiple times a week as part of their personal wellness.” She continued, “We understand that this is a wellness resource and we want to make sure this is something that continues to be accessible for our local community. We feel it’s important to provide wellness opportunities for everyone.”
Not to mention, the location of the springs next to the river means guests can enjoy contrast bathing, which is the practice of immersing your body in the hot springs and then plunging into cold waters.
Unique hot spring activities at The Springs
In addition to soaking in the springs, guests can participate in small group aqua yoga in the hot pools, which helps to stretch muscles and provide even more relaxation. The resort also offers a guided contrast bathing. This “warrior plunge” provides support for first-timers by an expert at the spa.
In 2021, Holtz introduced a brand new activity that’s unique to the spa, called “aqua sound bathing,” featuring Tibetan singing bowls. Guests feel the vibrations of the bowls while soaking, which resonates throughout the body. She says, “We started experimenting with this and found it to be a powerful and meditative experience. You can see how the water ripples in response to the organic sound, as listening intently to nature can be incredibly relaxing while lowering stress levels.”
The Springs is continuing to evolve their wellness offerings, which will include elements within the water and outside in nature.
How to visit The Springs Resort
The closest airport to The Springs is in Durango, Colorado, although Denver and Santa Fe, New Mexico are also within driving distance.
The resort offers 79 rooms and suites, ranging from classic to deluxe and luxury categories – all with 24-hour access to the hot springs.
You don’t need to stay at The Springs Resort to enjoy the springs, though. The resort offers a “day pass” experience where you can pay $49 for the day and enjoy soaking in the springs and pools. There’s access to showers and lockers, and there’s also a café and bar on site. Locals who reside within 60 miles of the resort can enjoy a yearly membership for $29 per month.
High season for The Springs is summer and winter. Aside from the hot springs, this stunning area offers an array of other activities, including hiking, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, stargazing, white water rafting, exploring downtown Pagosa Springs and an abundance of winter activities, as well.
