Pagosa Springs, Colorado: World’s Deepest Hot Springs

Quick Facts

• Location: Archuleta County, Southwest Colorado
• Distance from Denver: 276 miles southwest via US-285 and US-160 (5 hours)
• Distance from Durango: 47 miles east on US-160
• Elevation: 7,126 feet
• Population: 1,571 (2020 census)
• Year Established: 1881 (first commercial bathhouse), incorporated as a town in 1891
• Nearest Full Services: All services available in town
• Primary Attraction: World’s deepest geothermal hot springs, Wolf Creek Ski Area

Pagosa Springs is a charming mountain town in Southwest Colorado, famous worldwide for possessing the deepest geothermal hot spring on Earth. Certified by Guinness World Records at over 1,000 feet deep, the Mother Spring feeds numerous soaking pools throughout town, creating a unique destination where outdoor adventure meets natural relaxation. Surrounded by 2.5 million acres of San Juan National Forest and positioned just 35 miles north of New Mexico, Pagosa Springs offers year-round recreation, 300+ days of sunshine, and authentic small-town character.

The Healing Waters: A Rich History

The name “Pagosa” derives from the Southern Ute word “Pah gosah,” meaning “healing waters” or “boiling waters.” For thousands of years before European settlement, the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribes used the hot springs for healing, hunting, and ceremony. The Great Pagosa (Mother Spring) was considered sacred neutral ground where even warring tribes would bathe in peace. The springs were so revered that in Navajo belief, this is where they emerged into this world from the underground.

Following the 1868 Brunot Treaty, trappers and prospectors began settling the area. In 1881, the first commercial bathhouse was built over the Great Pagosa Spring, and by 1891, the Denver & Rio Grande narrow-gauge railroad arrived, bringing tourists from across the country. The town quickly earned the nickname “Colorado’s Saratoga of the West” as visitors came to “take the waters” for ailments ranging from arthritis to tuberculosis. U.S. Army physicians in the 1860s studied the springs and concluded they were “without doubt the most wonderful and beneficial in medicinal effects that have ever been discovered.”

After the railroad was abandoned in 1936, Pagosa Springs transitioned to a quieter ranching and lumber town, but the hot springs never lost their allure. Today, the town has evolved into a premier year-round destination while preserving its authentic mountain character.

The World’s Deepest Hot Springs

Pagosa Springs’ crown jewel is the Mother Spring, officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring. The spring was measured at 1,002 feet deep before the plumb line ran out—meaning it could extend even deeper. Water emerges at approximately 144°F, rich in minerals including sulfur, which creates the distinctive smell and therapeutic properties.

Where to Soak:

• The Springs Resort & Spa: 25+ pools along the San Juan River ranging from 83°F to 114°F
• Overlook Hot Springs: Hillside pools with stunning views
• Healing Waters Resort & Spa: Adults-only soaking experience
• Free primitive springs: Located along the river, extremely hot water (caution advised)

The geothermal water isn’t just for soaking—in the 1980s, Pagosa Springs drilled geothermal wells to heat buildings in the downtown area, making it one of the most innovative uses of natural hot springs in Colorado.

Wolf Creek Ski Area: Colorado’s Snowiest Resort

Just 25 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs on Wolf Creek Pass sits Wolf Creek Ski Area, Colorado’s snowiest ski resort with an average annual snowfall of 430+ inches. This family-owned operation opened in 1939 and has built a loyal following among powder enthusiasts and families seeking an authentic, affordable ski experience without the crowds and high prices of major resorts.

Wolf Creek Highlights:

• 1,600 skiable acres with terrain for all abilities
• Elevation: 10,300 to 11,904 feet (1,604 feet vertical drop)
• 11 lifts including high-speed quads
• No lift lines even during peak season
• Affordable lift tickets compared to major Colorado resorts
• Homemade food and local microbrews in base lodges
• Expert hike-to terrain and tree skiing

The combination of legendary powder, laid-back atmosphere, and proximity to Pagosa’s hot springs creates the perfect ski vacation: hit the slopes all day, then soak in 110°F mineral water under the stars.

Year-Round Outdoor Recreation

Surrounded by 2.5 million acres of San Juan National Forest, including Colorado’s largest wilderness area (Weminuche Wilderness) and least-visited wilderness (South San Juan), Pagosa Springs offers exceptional outdoor recreation in every season.

Hiking and Backpacking

The area features hundreds of miles of trails ranging from riverside strolls to multi-day wilderness backpacking adventures. Popular hikes include Treasure Falls (a stunning 105-foot waterfall), Piedra Falls, and countless trails into the Weminuche Wilderness accessing pristine alpine lakes and 13,000-foot peaks.

Fishing

The San Juan River flows directly through downtown Pagosa Springs, offering excellent trout fishing for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. The two-mile stretch through town is easily accessible for wading, while upstream and downstream sections provide more remote fishing opportunities. Numerous high-country lakes and streams in the surrounding national forest offer backcountry angling.

Water Sports

The San Juan River through Pagosa Springs is perfect for tubing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting during summer. Multiple outfitters offer guided trips and equipment rentals for a refreshing float through town on hot summer days.

Hunting

The San Juan Mountains surrounding Pagosa Springs support healthy populations of elk, mule deer, black bear, and mountain lion. The area is renowned for excellent elk hunting, with vast roadless wilderness areas providing authentic backcountry hunting experiences.

Gateway to National Treasures

Pagosa Springs’ location in Southwest Colorado makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the region’s most spectacular national parks and monuments.

Chimney Rock National Monument

Just west of Pagosa Springs, this sacred Ancestral Puebloan site features ancient ruins and dramatic twin spires rising 1,000 feet above the valley floor. The monument offers guided tours revealing the sophisticated astronomy and architecture of the Chaco culture that thrived here over 1,000 years ago.

Mesa Verde National Park

Located about 90 miles west, Mesa Verde preserves some of America’s most impressive cliff dwellings. The famous Ancestral Puebloan sites make for an excellent day trip from Pagosa Springs.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Approximately 2.5 hours northeast, North America’s tallest sand dunes create a surreal landscape perfect for a unique day trip adventure.

Climate and When to Visit

Pagosa Springs enjoys a mild four-season climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Located in Colorado’s sunbelt just 35 miles from New Mexico, the town experiences pleasant temperatures year-round, though elevation means cool nights even in summer.

Summer (June-August):

• Daytime highs average near 80°F; cool nights in the 40s-50s
• Perfect for hiking, fishing, and river activities
• Hot springs provide evening relaxation

Fall (September-October):

• Spectacular aspen colors; crisp, clear days
• Elk hunting season brings outdoor enthusiasts

Winter (November-March):

• Wolf Creek Ski Area receives 300-400+ inches of snow
• Town elevation means moderate snow; daytime highs near 40°F
• Soaking in steaming hot springs under falling snow is magical

Spring (April-May):

• Shoulder season with good lodging deals; rivers run high with snowmelt

Town Services and Amenities

As Archuleta County’s seat and only incorporated town, Pagosa Springs offers full services and amenities despite its small size. Downtown features charming locally-owned shops, restaurants, breweries, and the historic Liberty Theatre (Colorado’s fourth-oldest theater, built in 1919).

Available Services:

• Full grocery stores and gas stations
• Diverse dining: from authentic Mexican to upscale farm-to-table
• Craft breweries and coffee shops
• Multiple ski and outdoor gear shops with rentals
• Pagosa Springs Medical Center (full hospital)
• Banks, post office, and professional services
• Recreation center with indoor pool and fitness facilities

Where to Stay

Pagosa Springs offers diverse lodging options from hot springs resorts to budget motels, vacation rentals, and RV parks. Many visitors choose accommodations with on-site hot springs access for the ultimate convenience.

Lodging Options:

• Hot springs resorts with multiple soaking pools
• Historic downtown hotels and inns
• Vacation rentals and cabins throughout the area
• Budget-friendly motels along US-160
• RV parks with full hookups
• USFS campgrounds in surrounding national forest

Planning Your Trip

Essential Tips:

• Acclimate to 7,126-foot elevation; stay hydrated
• Book hot springs resort rooms early during peak season
• Bring sunscreen—high elevation and 300+ days of sun mean intense UV
• Check Wolf Creek snow conditions before winter visits
• Reserve ski rentals in town to avoid driving to the mountain with gear
• Cell service can be limited in wilderness areas—download maps

Why Visit Pagosa Springs

Pagosa Springs offers a rare combination of world-class natural features, outdoor recreation, and authentic small-town character. Where else can you ski Colorado’s snowiest resort in the morning, soak in the world’s deepest hot springs in the afternoon, and enjoy craft beer and live music in a historic theater by evening? The town’s genuine warmth extends beyond its famous mineral waters—locals are welcoming, the pace is relaxed, and the focus remains on what makes mountain living special: stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and quality of life.

Related Articles & Guides

Planning your trip to the Pagosa Springs area? Check out these helpful resources:

• Ultimate Guide to Wolf Creek Ski Area – Everything you need to know about Colorado’s snowiest resort
• Best Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs – Compare soaking options and find your perfect pool
• Hiking the Weminuche Wilderness from Pagosa – Trail guides to Colorado’s largest wilderness area
• Fishing the San Juan River – Where and how to catch trophy trout through town
• Day Trips from Pagosa Springs – Explore Mesa Verde, Chimney Rock, and the Great Sand Dunes