Quick Facts
Distance from Denver: 157 miles (3 hrs). Temperature: 101-106°F. Day Pass: $20-25. Vibe: Rustic & Natural.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is what most people imagine when they think of natural hot springs. Stone-lined pools built into the forest floor, hot mineral water mixing with cold creek water, steam rising through the trees, and not a concrete deck in sight.
Located 7 miles outside Steamboat Springs on a rugged mountain road, this is the most authentic hot springs experience in Colorado. It's rustic, it's remote, and it's exactly what you want after a day of skiing or hiking.
Clothing Optional After Dark: Strawberry Park becomes clothing-optional after dark (adults 18+ only after sunset). During daytime hours, swimsuits are required and families with children are welcome.
The Pools
Main Source Pool
Temperature: 104-106°F. The hottest pool, closest to where the springs emerge. Stone walls and natural rock bottom. Best for serious soaking on cold nights.
Middle Pools
Temperature: 101-103°F. Several interconnected pools where hot spring water mixes with creek water. Find your perfect temperature by moving between pools.
Cold Plunge
Temperature: ~65°F. A small cold pool for contrast therapy. Hot soak, cold plunge, repeat. Traditional Scandinavian-style experience.
The pools are built into the hillside, connected by stone pathways and surrounded by aspen and pine trees. Hot Creek flows alongside, and the steam creates an ethereal atmosphere, especially on cold winter nights.
Best Experience: Visit on a clear winter night. Snow on the ground, stars overhead, steam rising from the pools, hot water on your body while cold air hits your face. This is peak Colorado hot springs.
Getting to Strawberry Park
Address: 44200 County Road 36, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
From Steamboat Springs, take 7th Street north, which becomes County Road 36. The road climbs into the mountains and becomes unpaved for the last few miles. In winter, 4WD/AWD is required.
Winter Access Warning: The access road is steep, unpaved, and can be icy. 4WD/AWD with snow tires is REQUIRED in winter. Many visitors book the shuttle service from Steamboat Springs instead of driving themselves. Rental cars often aren't allowed on unpaved roads - check your contract.
Shuttle Service
Several companies offer shuttle service from Steamboat Springs to Strawberry Park, especially for evening visits. This is highly recommended if you don't have a proper vehicle for the road. Most shuttles run around $15-20 per person round-trip.
Prices & Hours (2026)
- Hours: 10 AM - 10:30 PM daily
- Daytime (10 AM - Sunset): $20 adults, $10 children (3-12)
- Evening (After Sunset): $25 adults only (18+, clothing optional)
- Cash Only - no credit cards accepted
- Reservations: Required, especially weekends
Phone: (970) 879-0342
Website: strawberryhotsprings.com
Cash Only: Strawberry Park does not accept credit cards. Bring cash. There's no ATM on-site, and you're 7 miles up a mountain road from the nearest one.
Staying Overnight
Strawberry Park offers rustic on-site lodging:
- Cabins: Basic cabins with wood stoves, no running water. Rustic but cozy.
- Covered Wagons: Unique glamping experience in restored wagons.
- Train Caboose: A converted railroad caboose for a quirky stay.
- Tent Camping: Sites available in summer months.
Overnight guests get unlimited pool access during their stay, including early morning hours before day visitors arrive. Steamboat Springs has plenty of hotel options if you prefer modern amenities.
Insider Tips
- Book ahead. Reservations are required and they fill up, especially weekends and holidays. Book at least a week in advance.
- Bring cash. Credit cards are not accepted. Bring more than you think you need.
- Bring sandals. The paths between pools are rocky. You'll want something on your feet.
- Arrive before sunset. If you want to see the pools in daylight AND experience the evening atmosphere, arrive around 4-5 PM in winter.
- Hydrate. High altitude + hot water = dehydration. Bring water bottles (no glass allowed).
- Leave valuables in the car. The changing rooms are basic with minimal security.
- Use the shuttle in winter. Unless you have a truck or SUV with real snow tires, the road is not worth the stress.
Daytime vs. Nighttime
Strawberry Park offers two completely different experiences:
Daytime (Family-Friendly)
- Swimsuits required
- Children welcome
- Beautiful views of surrounding mountains and forest
- Generally less crowded than evenings
After Dark (Adults Only)
- 18+ only, no exceptions
- Clothing optional (most visitors go without)
- Stargazing, steam, mystical atmosphere
- More social, often meets other travelers
- Higher admission price
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Strawberry Park Hot Springs worth the drive?
If you want an authentic, natural hot springs experience - absolutely yes. This is the real deal. If you want a resort experience with amenities, look elsewhere. Know what you're getting into and you'll love it.
Can I bring my kids to Strawberry Park?
Yes, during daytime hours before sunset. After dark, it's strictly 18+ only and clothing-optional. Plan your visit accordingly.
Do I have to be naked at night?
No. Clothing is optional, not required. Wear a swimsuit if you're more comfortable - many people do. There's no pressure either way.
Can I drive a regular car to Strawberry Park?
In summer, yes. In winter, no. The unpaved road becomes icy and steep. You need 4WD/AWD with proper snow tires, or take the shuttle.
Is there cell service at Strawberry Park?
Very limited to none. This is a good thing. Disconnect, soak, be present.