As a world-renowned destination for winter vacations, Aspen sees thousands of visitors each year, all heading to its stunning mountains for days of endless snowy fun. From skiing and snowboarding to snow tubing and the après scene, there’s never a dull moment. But, if after your adrenaline-filled days, you’re looking to add some much-needed rest and relaxation into your vacation, there are some uniquely Aspen things you have to take advantage of. To make it easy, we’re giving you our list of must-visit hot springs near Aspen, as well as some other relaxing activities, so you can incorporate them into your itinerary and ensure your vacation is as fun as it is rejuvenating. Check them out below and see how many you can visit during your trip!
Glenwood Hot Springs
Conveniently located between Aspen and Vail, Glenwood Hot Springs has been a must-visit destination in Colorado for 130 years. Home to the world’s largest hot springs pool, visitors flock to the mineral-rich 104°F waters to soothe their muscles and revitalize their spirits in one of the most picturesque places on earth. The hot spring pool is open year-round, though there’s nothing quite like soaking in the warm waters as you stare at the snow-covered mountains surrounding the valley. With day passes available and on-site shops and restaurants, it’s easy to spend a whole day here during your Aspen vacation. They’re often very busy during peak seasons, so be sure to reserve your day pass at least a couple of weeks in advance.
Yampah Vapor Caves
Just up the road from Glenwood Hot Springs, you’ll find the Yampah Spa Vapor Caves – a full-service day spa with the unique feature of three natural underground steam bath caves. The steam is generated by 125°F water flowing underfoot, which keeps the caves around 110-112°F, creating a luxurious experience that highlights each of their spa offerings.
Each of their spa services comes with a two-hour pass to the vapor caves, and there are ample cooling pools and rooms where you can take breaks from the steam. With treatments that cater to every budget and style, you can customize your ideal spa day at this incredibly unique Aspen hot spring location. Before heading back to your Aspen vacation rental, take some time to explore Glenwood Springs. Their delicious restaurants and locally owned downtown shops provide the perfect cap to your dream day of relaxation.
Iron Mountain
As one of the newest hot springs near Aspen, Iron Mountain stands out from the crowd with its 16 unique geothermal pools. Each pool is heated to a different temperature ranging from 92-108°F, so you can find the one that’s just right for you or enjoy moving from pool to pool. With 14 different minerals present in the water, you’ll feel fully revitalized after your soak. They also feature a wheelchair-accessible family pool that makes relaxing together a breeze.
Perhaps the most alluring offering at Iron Mountain is their Inspired Pool, where a dip can transport you to some of the most famous hot springs in the world. By adjusting the water’s composition, they can mimic well-known locations and provide you with the experience right in the heart of Colorado. Their current inspiration comes from the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, so be sure to book a visit to this hot spring on your Aspen vacation.
Avalanche Ranch
In the heart of the Crystal River Valley, about an hour from Aspen, you’ll find Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs. Designed to fit within the natural landscape, the three hot spring pools cascade from one to the next, tiered to provide privacy no matter which one you’re in. The largest pool features a three-foot waterfall, which forms a warm screen in front of a secluded rock grotto. Visitors to the hot springs can purchase 4-hour time slots every day except Wednesday when the pools are cleaned. To truly elevate your experience, purchase one of their massages before dipping into the soothing mineral springs. You can choose from one, one-and-a-half, and two-hour options, and you need to book this add-on 24 hours before your visit to ensure availability. With views of Elephant Mountain and Mt. Sopris surrounding you, this is one of the top hot springs to check out on your Aspen vacation.
Penny Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a free hot spring near Aspen, Penny Hot Spring in Carbondale is just a short 45-minute drive away. Located on the Crystal River, the spring is naturally fed with hot mineral water and is open year-round. In the winter, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped peaks and sweeping canyons as the brisk mountain air provides the perfect conditions for the steamy water. Start your day by exploring the Filoha Meadows Nature Preserve and end it with a healing soak in the hot springs. Though small, the pools can hold roughly ten people comfortably, and the well-placed rocks keep the cold water out for optimal conditions. For your best chance at getting some time in the spring, visit on a weekday versus a weekend. With convenient parking near the spring, you can easily add this relaxing activity to your Aspen vacation.
Spas in Aspen
For other relaxing activities near Aspen, check out these spas and consider booking a treatment before you head out for an evening of après ski frivolity.
- RAKxa Wellness Spa – located in the St. Regis Aspen hotel, their Rx Oxygen Facial is a must for restoring dry skin after days in the cold mountain air.
- The Spa at Viceroy – this Snowmass spa offers 7,000 square feet of holistic healing. Try their Champagne Indulgence Soak, Wrap, and Massage ritual – the perfect pre-après treat.
- True Nature Healing Arts – From acupuncture to facials and healing body wraps, you can do it all at True Nature. Their beautiful grounds and zen garden are the perfect place to unwind and lean into the restorative aspects of your Aspen vacation.
As winter is the busiest season in Aspen, be sure to book any spa treatments well in advance of your visit to ensure you can get exactly what you want.
Book Your Relaxing Aspen Getaway Today!
Before you can think about adding these relaxing activities to your trip itinerary, you have to find the perfect Aspen vacation rental. That’s where McCartney Property Management comes in. With incredible condos and private chateaus in the heart of Aspen, we can help you secure your dream home away from home. Whether you’re traveling with a group or looking for a cozy couple’s getaway, we have it all. And, when you book direct, you get the best price available – none of those hidden fees online travel agencies like to tack on to the final cost. Browse our available vacation rentals and book your Aspen vacation directly with McCartney Property Management today. Then, start dreaming of all these incredible must-visit hot springs near Aspen!