Dunton Hot Springs

## Overview Dunton Hot Springs is a historic hot spring destination nestled in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, near the town of Dolores. Situated at an elevation of roughly 9,000 feet in a beautifully restored ghost town, Dunton Hot Springs has a rich history dating back centuries. The area's geothermal waters were long known to the Ute people, who valued the springs for their healing properties. In the late 1800s, a small mining town grew up around the site during Colorado's silver and gold rush era. After the mines played out, the town was gradually abandoned — only to be rediscovered and painstakingly restored in the late 1990s as a luxury resort that preserves the rustic character of the original settlement. The hot springs are fed by naturally heated geothermal water that rises through ancient volcanic rock formations in the San Juan range. Water temperatures at the source have been reported to reach approximately 106°F (41°C), and the mineral-rich waters have historically been prized for their soothing qualities. The springs flow into a restored bathhouse as well as outdoor soaking areas set against a dramatic alpine backdrop of towering peaks, aspen groves, and the West Fork of the Dolores River. Today, Dunton Hot Springs operates as a private, all-inclusive resort. Access to the hot springs is generally reserved for overnight guests, so visitors should be aware that this is not a public-access spring. Reservations are required. ## Directions 1. From Dolores, Colorado, head north on CO-145 toward Rico. 2. After approximately 12 miles, turn left (west) onto West Fork Road (also known as County Road 38 / Forest Road 535). 3. Follow Road 38 for roughly 13 miles through the scenic West Dolores River valley. The road is a mix of paved and well-maintained gravel. 4. The resort entrance is located at **8532 Road 38, Dolores, CO 81323**. Look for signage for Dunton Hot Springs. *Note: The final stretch of road can be rough, especially during spring snowmelt or after heavy rain. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and 4WD may be necessary in winter months. Check road conditions before traveling.* ## What to Expect Dunton Hot Springs is set within a lovingly restored 19th-century ghost town, and the atmosphere is unlike any other hot spring in Colorado. Hand-hewn log cabins serve as guest accommodations, and the main bathhouse — built around the original hot spring source — features a large indoor soaking pool lined with natural stone. Additional outdoor soaking areas allow guests to take in sweeping views of the surrounding San Juan peaks. The geothermal water is mineral-rich, and visitors have reported that it has a soft, silky feel on the skin. The temperature of the pools varies but is generally maintained at a comfortable soaking level around 100–106°F. The surrounding landscape is spectacular in every season: wildflower-filled meadows in summer, golden aspens in fall, and deep snow in winter that transforms the valley into a quiet alpine wonderland. The West Fork of the Dolores River runs nearby, and hiking, fly fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are all popular activities in the area. Because Dunton Hot Springs is a private resort, drop-in visits are not available. Prospective visitors should contact the resort directly to inquire about availability, rates, and seasonal access. The GPS coordinates for the location are approximately **37.7729, -108.0940**.