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Hartsel Hot Springs: Is It Open? (Updated 2026 Guide)
Hartsel Hot Springs has been closed to the public since 1972 when the historic hotel burned down, ending nearly a century of operation that began in the 1870s. The property remains on private land with no public access, despite some outdated travel guides suggesting otherwise.
If you’re searching for Hartsel Hot Springs, you’re not alone—approximately 260 people search for it every month. Many arrive in Hartsel only to discover the springs are inaccessible. This guide provides accurate, up-to-date alternatives that offer even better soaking experiences within a short drive.
Bottom line: Plan for one of the five verified alternatives below instead of wasting a trip to closed Hartsel Hot Springs.
Quick Comparison: Hot Springs Near Hartsel, Colorado
| Hot Springs | Distance | Drive Time | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penny Hot Springs | 28 miles | 35 min | Free, river-fed, public | Quick dip, budget |
| Cottonwood Hot Springs | 35 miles | 45 min | Private resort, quiet | Relaxation, overnight |
| Mt. Princeton Resort | 42 miles | 55 min | Full resort, pools | Families, amenities |
| Conundrum Hot Springs | 72 miles | 2.5 hrs* | Backcountry, hike-in | Adventurers |
| Glenwood Springs Pool | 88 miles | 1 hr 40 min | World’s largest pool | All ages, iconic |
*Includes estimated drive + 8.5mi hike time one way.
Why Hartsel Hot Springs Closed (Historical Context)
The 1972 Fire That Ended Public Access
Hartsel Hot Springs operated as a popular resort destination from the 1870s until 1972. Established by Samuel Hartsel in 1866, the settlement became a strategic stop for travelers heading to Colorado’s mining districts. The hot springs resort featured a hotel built in 1875 and a bathhouse with therapeutic mineral waters that attracted visitors arriving via the Colorado Midland Railroad.
In 1972, the historic Hartsel Hot Springs hotel burned down. The hot springs facilities closed at that time and never reopened to the public. The site remains on private property near downtown Hartsel, but no soaking access exists.
Why Outdated Information Persists
Some travel websites maintain outdated guides without verifying current access status. South Park National Heritage Area and Colorado Geological Survey both confirm the closure, yet misinformation continues to appear in search results.
Bottom line: The ruins of Hartsel Hot Springs are visible from public roads, but there is no legal public access for soaking. Plan for one of the alternatives below instead.
Alternative #1: Penny Hot Springs (Closest - 28 Miles)
Distance from Hartsel: 28 miles north via US Highway 24/US-82
Drive Time: 35 minutes | Search Volume: 5,400/month
Overview
Penny Hot Springs is the closest public hot springs to Hartsel, located in Redstone Canyon along the Crystal River. These free, natural hot springs offer an authentic Colorado soaking experience without commercial development.
Key Features
- Temperature: 90-115°F (varies by pool and season)
- Cost: FREE (public land managed by US Forest Service)
- Accessibility: Easy pull-off parking, short walk-down to river
- Difficulty: Easy (less than 100 yards from parking)
What to Expect
Penny Hot Springs features multiple rock-walled pools along the Crystal River’s edge. The geothermal water emerges from the source at 133°F but mixes with river water to create comfortable soaking temperatures.
Important Considerations:
- Clothing optional after dark.
- No facilities (no bathrooms or changing rooms).
- Leave No Trace—pack out all trash.
- Water shoes recommended for rocky/slippery bottom.
Alternative #2: Cottonwood Hot Springs (35 Miles)
Distance from Hartsel: 35 miles west via US-50
Drive Time: 45 minutes | Search Volume: 9,900/month
Overview
Cottonwood Hot Springs offers a clothing-optional, adults-only rustic resort experience in the San Isabel National Forest near Buena Vista. This quiet 10-acre retreat attracts serious soakers seeking tranquility and natural mineral waters.
Key Features
- Temperature: 94-104°F across multiple pools
- Cost: $25 day pass / $45-$135 lodging
- Setting: Forested mountain setting, historic 1870s resort
- Difficulty: Easy (paved paths throughout property)
Alternative #3: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort (42 Miles)
Distance from Hartsel: 42 miles southwest via US-50/CR 162
Drive Time: 55 minutes
Overview
Mount Princeton offers the most amenities of any hot springs near Hartsel, making it ideal for families and those wanting resort comforts.
Pool Areas & Options:
- Upper Pools: 400-foot lazy river and 150-foot waterslide (summer).
- Creekside: Natural creek-fed soaking pools along Chalk Creek.
- Spa & Private Pools: Massage, facials, and private pool rentals.
Alternative #4: Conundrum Hot Springs (72 Miles + Hike)
Distance from Hartsel: 72 miles to trailhead
Drive + Hike Time: 1.5 hours driving + 8.5 miles hiking
Difficulty: STRENUOUS (not for beginners)
Overview
Conundrum Hot Springs offers Colorado’s most spectacular backcountry hot springs experience, but requires significant effort to reach at 11,200 feet.
Key Features
- Temperature: 98-102°F
- Permit: Required for overnight camping.
- Best season: July through early October.
Alternative #5: Glenwood Springs Area (88 Miles)
Distance from Hartsel: 88 miles northwest via I-70
Drive Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Option A: Glenwood Hot Springs Pool
- Size: Largest mineral hot springs pool in the world.
- Temperature: 90-93°F (main pool), 104°F (therapy pool).
Option B: Iron Mountain Hot Springs
- Feature: 16 mineral pools with riverfront views.
- Specialty: Adults-only “Quiet Zone.”
Which Hot Spring Should You Choose?
| Your Priority | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Closest Alternative | Penny Hot Springs | 28 miles; free, quick river access. |
| Best Value | Penny Hot Springs | $0 admission cost. |
| Quiet / Adults Only | Cottonwood Hot Springs | 18+, enforced quiet, clothing optional. |
| Best Amenities | Mount Princeton | Full spa, dining, and luxury lodging. |
| Family-Friendly | Mt. Princeton / Glenwood | Water slides, shallow zones, lifeguards. |
| Backpacking Adventure | Conundrum Hot Springs | True wilderness; 11,200 ft elevation soak. |