What to know before you go
They don’t call it Steamboat Springs for nothing! Our beautiful mountain oasis got its name in the early 1800s when settlers thought they heard the sound of a steamboat coming down the Yampa river. The sound turned out to be a nearby mineral spring, which can still be found in downtown Steamboat Springs near the library. The entire area turned out to be rife with mineral springs and natural geothermal hot springs, leading to the incorporation of the town in 1900 with the name Steamboat Springs! If you’re planning a mountain retreat to Steamboat, visiting the natural hot springs has got to be high on your list! Here’s what to know before you go!!
Guess what?! There’s two!!
Visitors are often surprised to find that there are two options for soaking during your stay in Steamboat: Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Old Town Hot Springs. Both are incredibly unique and offer different pros and cons depending on who you’re traveling with and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
If you’re an adventurous couple looking for a romantic getaway, Strawberry Park Hot Springs should be at the top of your list! Strawberry Park Hot Springs offers visitors a unique, natural experience. Visitors should be prepared to travel up a 4WD preferred dirt road to this rustic, remote location. (In the winter visitors are required to have 4WD, snow tires, or chains for their vehicles.) Admission to the springs is CASH ONLY. Rustic restrooms and changing cabins are available on-site. Enjoy soaking in a cascading series of pools enclosed in natural rock alongside the naturally flowing river. Temperatures vary from pool to pool. Visit during the day for stunning mountain-side views. Families and couples should note that the pool becomes clothing optional after dark when star-gazing becomes absolutely phenomenal!
Old Town Hot Springs
For a more family-friendly alternative, with a less precarious commute, visitors will love Old Town Hot Springs conveniently located in downtown Steamboat Springs. Old Town Hot Springs pipes naturally occurring hot water from a nearby mineral spring into a series of organically shaped outdoor tubs and pools. There’s something for everyone at Old Town Hot Springs, from waterslides and a rock climbing wall for kiddos, to relaxation tubs for adults. Visitors at Old Town Hot Springs can expect all of the amenities of a modern recreation center with comfortable locker rooms, showers, and restrooms. Guests at Bella Vista can take advantage of our FREE shuttle to and from Old Town Hot Springs during their stay!
Tips to Maximize Your Soak Experience!
Looking to really get the most out of your soak? Firstly, don’t forget your swimsuit and towel. (Old Town Hot Springs has towels available to rent and swimsuits available for purchase. Strawberry Park Hot Springs has towels for sale and no suits available.) Next, don’t forget to bring water bottles for everyone in the family! You won’t realize it, but you’re actually SWEATING in that hot, hot water. Keep everyone hydrated to avoid fatigue after a long soak in the springs. Sandals and sun protection will also help make your visit more comfortable. (Especially at Strawberry Park Hot Springs where you’ll be walking on rustic dirt and stone paths from pool to pool.) Lastly, call before you go to confirm rates and hours. Staying at Bella Vista Estate? We’ll help you make all of the arrangements!