Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs

## Overview Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs is a unique lodging and hot spring destination nestled in the heart of Ouray, Colorado — a small mountain town often called the "Switzerland of America" due to its dramatic San Juan Mountain surroundings. Located at 45 3rd Avenue, the lodge sits at an elevation of approximately 7,800 feet and offers guests access to natural, geothermally heated hot springs fed by underground mineral water sources. Ouray has a long history as a hot springs destination. The area's geothermal activity results from deep geological faulting in the San Juan volcanic field, which allows heated, mineral-rich water to rise to the surface. The town's hot springs have been used for centuries — first by the Ute people, who considered the waters sacred and healing, and later by miners and settlers in the late 1800s during Colorado's silver mining boom. Box Canyon Lodge channels this same geothermal water into a series of outdoor soaking tubs perched along the hillside, offering visitors a more intimate and rustic alternative to the larger Ouray Hot Springs Pool. The hot spring water at Box Canyon Lodge has been reported to contain a blend of dissolved minerals, which is typical of the Ouray area's geothermal sources. Visitors frequently describe the water as soothing and naturally warm, with temperatures in the soaking tubs generally maintained between approximately 103°F and 108°F. ## Directions 1. From the north, take **US Highway 550 South** into Ouray. The highway becomes Main Street as it enters town. 2. Turn **west (right)** onto **3rd Avenue**. 3. Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs is located at **45 3rd Avenue**, on the south side of the street. The lodge is a short distance from the famous Box Canyon Falls Park. 4. Parking is available on-site for lodge guests. **GPS Coordinates:** 38.0192, -107.6742 ## What to Expect Box Canyon Lodge features a series of natural hot spring soaking tubs built into the hillside behind the lodge. The tubs are outdoors and vary in size, offering a terraced, cascading layout with mountain views. The setting is rustic and scenic, surrounded by towering peaks and evergreen forest. The hot springs are primarily available to overnight guests of the lodge, so visitors should plan accordingly and check with the property regarding access policies and availability. The soaking experience is notably quieter and more private than the public Ouray Hot Springs Pool located nearby. Ouray itself is a vibrant base for outdoor recreation year-round. In summer, the area offers world-class jeeping, hiking, and access to the Million Dollar Highway. In winter, Ouray is famous for its ice climbing park. The lodge's proximity to Box Canyon Falls — a stunning 285-foot waterfall tucked into a narrow canyon — makes it easy to combine a hot springs soak with a short walk to one of the region's most dramatic natural attractions. Visitors should be aware that Ouray's high elevation can intensify the effects of soaking in hot water. Staying hydrated and limiting soak times is advisable, especially for those not acclimated to altitude.