Penny Hot Springs

## Overview Penny Hot Springs is a beloved free natural hot spring located along the Crystal River in Pitkin County, Colorado, near the small town of Redstone. Situated at an elevation of roughly 7,000 feet in the stunning Crystal River Valley, these geothermal pools have long been a favorite soaking spot for locals and visitors alike. The springs emerge along the riverbank, where naturally heated mineral water seeps up through the rocky shoreline and mixes with the cool waters of the Crystal River. The hot springs are named after the Penny family, early settlers in the area, and have been used as a communal bathing spot for well over a century. The geothermal activity in this part of Colorado's Western Slope is linked to deep fault systems that allow groundwater to circulate far below the surface, where it is heated by the earth's interior before rising back up. Water temperatures at the source can reach upwards of 130°F (54°C), though the soaking pools along the river's edge are considerably cooler — typically ranging from around 100°F to 110°F (38°C to 43°C) depending on the season and river level. Visitors have historically reported that the mineral-rich water feels silky and soothing on the skin. Penny Hot Springs is free to visit and open to the public, managed by Pitkin County. The site is clothing-required per local regulations, and overnight camping is not permitted at the springs. ## Directions 1. From the town of Carbondale, Colorado, head south on Highway 133 (also known as the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway) toward Redstone. 2. Drive approximately 12 miles south along the Crystal River. 3. Penny Hot Springs is located on the east (river) side of Highway 133, roughly one mile north of the town of Redstone. 4. Look for a small pulloff area on the right side of the road (if heading south). The GPS coordinates are approximately **39.2398, -107.2331**. 5. From the pulloff, a short, steep path leads down to the riverbank where the hot spring pools are located. *Note: Parking is very limited — just a few spots along the highway shoulder. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Be cautious of traffic when crossing or walking along the highway.* ## What to Expect Penny Hot Springs offers a rustic, undeveloped soaking experience right on the banks of the Crystal River. There are no built facilities — no restrooms, changing rooms, or trash cans — so visitors should plan accordingly and pack out all trash. The soaking pools are formed by stacking river rocks along the shoreline to create small basins where the hot spring water collects. The temperature of the pools varies depending on how much river water mixes in, and visitors often adjust the rocks to fine-tune the heat. During spring runoff (typically May through June), the Crystal River can rise high enough to completely submerge the pools, making soaking impossible. The best soaking conditions are generally found in late summer, fall, and winter when river levels are lower. Winter visits can be especially magical, with snow-covered mountains surrounding the valley and steam rising from the warm pools. However, the highway can be icy and the path down to the river may be slippery, so use caution. The setting is spectacular — the Crystal River Valley is flanked by towering red cliffs and dense aspen groves that turn brilliant gold in autumn. The nearby historic town of Redstone, with its charming coke ovens and the Redstone Castle (Cleveholm Manor), makes for an excellent side trip. Penny Hot Springs is a popular spot and can get crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on weekday mornings or during the off-season.