Quick Facts
Distance from Denver: 276 miles (5 hrs). Temperature: 83-114°F. Day Pass: $35-49. Resorts: 3 major options.
Pagosa Springs is home to the world's deepest geothermal hot spring - verified by Guinness World Records. The "Mother Spring" reaches over 1,000 feet deep and produces water at 144°F, feeding multiple resort facilities along the San Juan River.
Located in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Pagosa Springs is a destination trip from Denver (5 hours), but the combination of world-class hot springs, stunning mountain scenery, and small-town charm makes it worth the journey.
Which Resort Should You Choose?
Unlike other Colorado hot springs towns, Pagosa has three distinct resort options, each offering a different experience:
The Springs Resort & Spa (Most Popular)
25 pools ranging from 83°F to 114°F, right along the San Juan River. The iconic Pagosa experience with terraced pools, river and mountain views. Day pass: $49. Lodging and full spa on-site. Most crowded on weekends.
Overlook Hot Springs (Best Value)
Rooftop hot springs in downtown Pagosa. Smaller scale, more intimate, and significantly cheaper. Day pass: $20-25. Downtown location, smaller pools, less crowded. No lodging on-site.
Healing Waters Resort (Quietest)
Across the river from The Springs Resort. Less famous, less crowded, more relaxed atmosphere. Day pass: $35. Lodging available. Outdoor and indoor pools.
Our Pick: For first-timers, The Springs Resort is the must-do experience - the variety of pools and river views are unmatched. For a quieter soak or budget visit, Overlook is excellent and you can walk to dinner downtown afterward.
Getting to Pagosa Springs
The Springs Resort Address: 323 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
From Denver, take US-285 South to US-160 West. The drive passes through the San Luis Valley and over Wolf Creek Pass (10,850 ft) - one of the most scenic drives in Colorado. In winter, Wolf Creek Pass can be challenging but is regularly plowed.
Winter Driving: Wolf Creek Pass receives more snow than almost anywhere in Colorado. Check CDOT conditions before driving in winter. The pass is beautiful but can close temporarily during heavy storms.
Prices & Hours (2026)
The Springs Resort & Spa
- Hours: 7 AM - 11 PM daily
- Day Pass: $49 adults, $25 children (3-12)
- Twilight (after 6 PM): $39 adults
- Hotel Guests: Included with stay
Overlook Hot Springs
- Hours: 10 AM - 10 PM daily
- Day Pass: $20-25 adults
Healing Waters Resort
- Hours: 8 AM - 10 PM daily
- Day Pass: $35 adults, $20 children
The Springs Resort Phone: (970) 264-4168
Website: pagosahotsprings.com
What Else to Do in Pagosa Springs
- Wolf Creek Ski Area: 30 minutes away, receives more snow than almost any Colorado resort (430+ inches annually)
- San Juan River: Fly fishing, kayaking, and riverside walks
- Chimney Rock National Monument: Ancient Puebloan archaeological site with stunning views
- Downtown Pagosa: Restaurants, breweries, and shops in a charming mountain town
- Hiking: Piedra River Trail, Fourmile Falls, Turkey Springs Trail
Insider Tips
- Make it a weekend. At 5 hours from Denver, this isn't a day trip. Plan at least one overnight.
- Early morning at The Springs. The resort opens at 7 AM. Early birds get pools to themselves.
- Try multiple resorts. If staying multiple days, visit The Springs one day and Overlook the next for different experiences.
- Twilight rate at The Springs. After 6 PM, admission drops $10. Sunset soaking is beautiful anyway.
- Book lodging early for ski season. Wolf Creek skiers fill Pagosa on winter weekends.
- Combine with Wolf Creek. Ski all day, soak all night. Perfect winter trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pagosa Springs worth the 5-hour drive from Denver?
Yes, if you make it a weekend trip. The hot springs variety is unmatched in Colorado, and the San Juan Mountains are spectacular. Don't try to day-trip it.
Can kids go to Pagosa Springs hot springs?
Yes, all three resorts are family-friendly. The Springs Resort has pools at various temperatures, including cooler ones suitable for children. Overlook has some age restrictions on certain pools.
Which is better: Pagosa Springs or Glenwood Hot Springs?
Different experiences. Pagosa has more pools with more variety and better mountain scenery. Glenwood has the iconic massive pool and is easier to reach from Denver. For a destination trip, Pagosa wins. For a quick getaway, Glenwood is more practical.
How hot are the pools at Pagosa Springs?
They range from 83°F (barely warm) to 114°F (very hot). Most pools are 100-106°F. The variety is the best part - find your perfect temperature.