Pagosa Springs Colorado Guide | Hot Springs, Wolf Creek & Things to Do

Your Guide to Pagosa Springs

Hot springs, powder skiing, and wilderness access

Pagosa Springs sits atop the world's deepest geothermal hot spring, with water rising from over 1,000 feet below the surface. Multiple hot springs facilities line the San Juan River through downtown, making soaking the main attraction.

Wolf Creek Ski Area, 25 miles east, receives more natural snow than any other Colorado resort—averaging over 400 inches annually. It's small, affordable, and uncrowded—powder skiing without the pretense or prices of destination resorts.

The town serves as a gateway to the Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest wilderness area. The San Juan River offers fishing and floating. Pagosa attracts those seeking relaxation and adventure in a genuine mountain town far from the Front Range crowds.

Explore Pagosa Springs

Springs, skiing, and wilderness

SPRINGS

Hot Springs

Multiple facilities from The Springs Resort to Healing Waters. Various pools at different temperatures along the San Juan River.

SKI

Wolf Creek

Colorado's snowiest ski area with 400+ inches annually. Affordable, uncrowded, and focused on skiing—not real estate.

HIKE

Hiking & Waterfalls

San Juan National Forest trails to waterfalls, alpine lakes, and wilderness. Gateway to Weminuche backcountry.

RIVER

San Juan River

Trout fishing through town and beyond. Gentle floating sections and riverside hot springs access.

TOWN

Downtown

Historic buildings with restaurants, shops, and galleries. Genuine mountain-town character without resort prices.

RUINS

Chimney Rock

Ancient Puebloan ruins and twin rock spires. National Monument with guided archaeological tours.

Plan Your Visit

Where to stay and how to get here

STAY

Where to Stay

Hot springs resorts, downtown hotels, and mountain cabins. Choose springs access or independent lodging.

TRAVEL

Getting There

Driving directions, Wolf Creek Pass tips, and airport options for this remote hot springs destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Pagosa Springs visit

How far is Pagosa Springs from Denver?

About 270 miles, roughly 5-6 hours. Most visitors fly into Durango (60 miles) or Albuquerque (180 miles). It's remote—that's part of the appeal.

Which hot springs facility is best?

The Springs Resort has the most pools and amenities. Healing Waters is more affordable. Overlook Hot Springs offers a unique rooftop experience. All access the same geothermal source.

Does Wolf Creek really get that much snow?

Yes—it averages over 400 inches annually, more than any other Colorado resort. The Continental Divide location catches storms from both directions.

Is Wolf Creek Pass difficult to drive?

It's a mountain pass and can be challenging in winter storms. The highway is well-maintained but steep. Check conditions before traveling.

Pagosa Springs, Colorado