Quick Facts
Distance from Denver: 366 miles (6.5 hrs). Temperature: 88-106°F. Day Pass: $18-24. Best For: Mountain Views.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers something no other Colorado hot springs can match: soaking while surrounded by 13,000+ foot peaks on all sides. The town of Ouray sits in a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, earning its nickname "The Switzerland of America."
The municipal hot springs pool was recently renovated with million-gallon sulfur-free pools, making this one of the most modern hot springs facilities in Colorado while maintaining stunning natural beauty.
The Pools
Main Pool
Temperature: 88-96°F. Large swimming pool with lap lanes, diving board, and plenty of space. The "cooler" option - perfect for actually swimming. Amazing mountain views from the water.
Soaking Sections
Temperature: 100-106°F. Multiple hot soaking areas at varying temperatures. Jets, seating areas, and the real hot springs experience. This is where you relax.
Inflatable Obstacle Course (Seasonal)
Floating obstacle course in summer months. Great for kids (and adults who want to play). Adds activity to the soaking experience.
The View: Position yourself in the hot soaking section facing south. You'll see the dramatic cliffs of the canyon walls rising directly above you. At sunset, the peaks glow orange. It's one of the most stunning hot springs settings in Colorado.
Getting to Ouray
Address: 1220 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427
From Denver, the most direct route is US-285 South to US-50 West to US-550 South. The final stretch on US-550 is the famous Million Dollar Highway - one of the most spectacular (and nerve-wracking) drives in America with cliff edges and no guardrails.
The Million Dollar Highway: US-550 between Ouray and Silverton features steep grades, tight curves, and sheer drop-offs with minimal barriers. It's paved and well-maintained but not for nervous drivers. In winter, carry chains and check conditions. Consider taking it during daylight your first time.
Prices & Hours (2026)
- Summer Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM daily (Memorial Day - Labor Day)
- Winter Hours: 12 PM - 9 PM (Mon-Fri), 10 AM - 9 PM (Sat-Sun)
- Adults: $18 weekday, $24 weekend
- Children (4-17): $12 weekday, $16 weekend
- Seniors (62+): $14 weekday, $18 weekend
- Under 4: Free
Phone: (970) 325-7073
Website: ourayhotsprings.com
Best Value in Colorado: At $18-24, Ouray is one of the most affordable hot springs in Colorado, especially for the quality of the facility and the incredible views.
Other Hot Springs in Ouray
The municipal pool isn't the only option:
- Wiesbaden Hot Springs: More intimate vapor caves and outdoor pool. Clothing-optional vapor cave. Adults-oriented atmosphere. Located in a historic building.
- Box Canyon Lodge Hot Springs: Private soaking tubs on terraces overlooking the canyon. Adults only. Guests of the lodge only (book a room).
- Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs: Outdoor and indoor pools with mountain views. Hotel guests and day visitors welcome.
What Else to Do in Ouray
- Ice Climbing: Ouray is the ice climbing capital of the US. The Ouray Ice Park has artificial ice routes in the canyon.
- Jeep Tours: The San Juans have incredible 4WD roads. Rent a Jeep or book a tour.
- Box Canyon Falls: Short hike to a powerful waterfall in a box canyon.
- Million Dollar Highway: Drive to Silverton and back on this incredible scenic road.
- Downtown Ouray: Historic Main Street with restaurants, shops, and Victorian architecture.
- Hiking: Bear Creek Trail, Perimeter Trail, and countless other options.
Insider Tips
- Make it a San Juan loop. Combine Ouray with Pagosa Springs, Durango, and Telluride for an incredible Colorado road trip.
- Summer afternoon thunderstorms. The mountains create afternoon storms in summer. Morning is usually clear; plan your soak for late afternoon when storms pass.
- Stay overnight in town. Ouray is tiny and charming. Walk from your hotel to the hot springs, then to dinner.
- Winter is magical. Fewer tourists, snow on the peaks, and the hot water feels even better.
- Try the vapor caves at Wiesbaden. For a different experience than the main pool.
- Evening soak for stars. Less light pollution here than almost anywhere in Colorado. Soak under the Milky Way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ouray Hot Springs worth the 6.5-hour drive from Denver?
On its own, probably not. But as part of a San Juan Mountains road trip, absolutely. Combine with Pagosa Springs, Telluride, or Durango for an unforgettable Colorado adventure. Don't drive 6.5 hours for a day trip.
Is the Million Dollar Highway scary?
It can be intimidating. Steep drop-offs, tight curves, and few guardrails. But it's paved and maintained. Take your time, don't look down, and pull over at viewpoints. It's genuinely one of America's most scenic drives.
Are kids welcome at Ouray Hot Springs?
Yes, the municipal pool is very family-friendly. The inflatable obstacle course (summer) is a hit with kids. The private resorts like Wiesbaden are more adults-oriented.
Which is better: Ouray or Pagosa Springs hot springs?
Pagosa has more variety and pools. Ouray has better mountain views and is more affordable. Both are excellent. If you can only do one, Pagosa offers more for first-time visitors. If you're doing the San Juan loop, hit both.