South Canyon Trails Glenwood Springs
A free, undeveloped hot spring offering a rustic soak with scenic mountain views along the Crystal River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak
South Canyon Trails Glenwood Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, undeveloped hot spring offering a rustic soak with scenic mountain views along the Crystal River.
"Free hot springs! A short hike takes you to a rustic setting with gentle soothing hot springs water!"
🥾 Wear Old Shoes!
The trail and pools can be muddy. Old sneakers or water shoes are best.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities here! Pack everything you need for a comfortable soak.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Soothing Pools
Adjacent to the Crystal River
Two natural pools offer varying temperatures for a relaxing soak amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Scenic Riverfront Location
Along the Crystal River
Enjoy the therapeutic waters with the soothing sounds of the Crystal River and breathtaking Colorado mountain views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Know Before You Go: Etiquette & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Old Shoes!
The trail and pools can be muddy. Old sneakers or water shoes are best.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities here! Pack everything you need for a comfortable soak.
♨️ Test the Water Temp
One pool is cooler, the other is very hot near the spring source.
🦺 Be Aware of Surroundings
It's a natural spot, so expect varied company and conditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Old Shoes!
The trail and pools can be muddy. Old sneakers or water shoes are best.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities here! Pack everything you need for a comfortable soak.
♨️ Test the Water Temp
One pool is cooler, the other is very hot near the spring source.
🦺 Be Aware of Surroundings
It's a natural spot, so expect varied company and conditions.
🚫 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Keep this beautiful place clean for everyone. Leave no trace!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
South Canyon Hot Springs offers a free, natural soaking experience with beautiful mountain views. Visitors appreciate the rustic charm and therapeutic waters, though some find the mud and sulfur smell off-putting. It's a primitive site, so come prepared for a no-frills adventure.
"If you don’t like mud don’t come here
It’s really muddy and smells.
There are 2 pools
One is cooler and one is really warm.
2 minutes walk from parking on the road.
I felt safe when I was here."
aL dA
"One of the nice things about living in Colorado! Free hot springs! A short hike takes you to a rustic setting with gentle soothing hot springs water! Don't need tickets."
Guillermo Lazo
"Our favorite little (not-so) hidden gem. The two little pools with natural hot springs are perfect to relax in. Just a few minute walk from the parking spot and you reach your destination. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, it is a perfect spot to unwind. The bigger pool is warmer, and if you go towards the far corner, it is very hot as that is where the springs are coming out of. We've been a few times, there's always someone there..the first time a dude was soaking there fully nude. So just a heads up😆 but overall, it is awesome!"
Olga S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Canyon Hot Springs is located a short drive west of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Take I-70 West and take Exit 109 for South Canyon Road. Follow South Canyon Road until you see a small parking area on the right, just before the road crosses the Crystal River. The trailhead is right there.
Yes, there is a small parking area available near the trailhead. It can fill up, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
The walk is very short and easy, typically only about 2 minutes. It's a well-trodden path leading directly to the pools.
Yes, South Canyon Hot Springs is accessible year-round, including winter. However, conditions can be muddy, and snow may be present.
The parking area is quite small and not designed for large vehicles like RVs. It's best to park elsewhere and walk or use a smaller vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, South Canyon Hot Springs is a free, undeveloped natural hot spring. No tickets or reservations are required.
As a natural hot spring, there are no official operating hours. You can visit anytime, but it's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee. This is a primitive, natural hot spring, and access is free for all visitors.
Camping is not permitted directly at the hot springs. You'll need to find designated campgrounds or lodging in the Glenwood Springs area if you plan to stay overnight.
No, there are no facilities at South Canyon Hot Springs. It is a primitive site, so come prepared with everything you need.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The temperature varies between the two pools. One is generally cooler, while the other, closer to the spring source, can be very hot. It's advised to test the water before fully immersing yourself.
Wear old shoes or water shoes as the area can be muddy. Swimsuits are recommended, though some visitors have been observed to be nude.
Crowds can vary. Weekdays and mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends or afternoons. It's generally less populated than developed hot springs.
The hot springs have a distinct sulfur smell, which is common for natural hot springs. Some visitors find it off-putting, while others don't mind it.
Be mindful of the hot water, especially near the source. The terrain can be slippery and muddy. It's also a natural area, so be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the mountain scenery and the pools.
Focus on the natural beauty: the steaming pools, the river, the surrounding mountains, and the rustic atmosphere. Wide-angle lenses can capture the landscape.
The area where the hot spring water mixes with the Crystal River offers unique photographic opportunities. Also, look for elevated spots for a broader view of the pools and landscape.
A waterproof phone case or camera is advisable due to potential splashes and mud. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing steam.
Emphasize the natural, undeveloped aspect. Include elements like steam, mud, and the surrounding wilderness to convey the authentic experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since there are no facilities, pack all necessities, including snacks, drinks, and towels. Consider bringing a small inflatable toy for the cooler pool if your children enjoy that. While some reviews mention nudity, it's not a constant occurrence, but it's good to be aware and prepared to explain it to children if necessary. The free access makes it an economical option for family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the springs themselves are free, remember to factor in the cost of transportation to get there. Pack your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing expensive items nearby. The key to a successful budget trip here is preparation: bring everything you need, and leave no trace behind to help keep this natural wonder accessible for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Hot Springs Experience
Accessing the springs is straightforward, involving a very short, easy walk from a small parking area. This accessibility makes it a popular, albeit rustic, destination. However, it's crucial to understand that 'undeveloped' means exactly that: no amenities, no staff, and no manicured facilities. Visitors are responsible for their own comfort and for leaving the area as they found it. The surrounding landscape, with the Crystal River flowing nearby and the majestic mountains as a backdrop, enhances the serene and therapeutic qualities of the soak.
What to Expect: Mud, Smells, and Serenity
The characteristic sulfur smell is another aspect that visitors should be prepared for. While some find it a minor inconvenience, others find it to be a strong deterrent. It's a natural byproduct of the mineral-rich water. Despite these less glamorous aspects, the overwhelming sentiment from visitors is positive, emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful natural setting, and the therapeutic benefits of the warm waters. Many appreciate the free access and the opportunity to experience a natural hot spring without the crowds and commercialism of developed resorts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit