Rainbow Hot Springs

## Overview Rainbow Hot Springs is a free, natural hot spring located in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, near the town of Pagosa Springs. Situated at approximately 37.508°N, 106.947°W, these geothermal pools rest along the West Fork of the San Juan River in the San Juan National Forest. The springs are a beloved backcountry destination, offering visitors the chance to soak in naturally heated mineral water surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and old-growth forest. The hot springs in this region owe their existence to the deep volcanic geology of the San Juan Mountains. Geothermally heated water rises through ancient fault lines, emerging at the surface in a series of pools along the riverbank. The Pagosa Springs area is well known for having some of the deepest and hottest geothermal aquifers in the world, and Rainbow Hot Springs is one of the few places where visitors can enjoy these waters in a completely natural, undeveloped setting — free of charge. Historically, the hot springs of the San Juan region held deep significance for the Ute people, who considered the geothermal waters to be sacred healing places. The name "Pagosa" itself is derived from a Ute word meaning "healing waters." Rainbow Hot Springs continues this tradition as a place where visitors come to relax and rejuvenate in the warm, mineral-rich pools. ## Directions 1. From Pagosa Springs, Colorado, head northeast on US-160 East. 2. Turn left (north) onto Piedra Road (Forest Road 631) — also sometimes referred to as the road toward the West Fork San Juan River trailhead area — or continue on US-160 to the West Fork trailhead access. Look for signs to the **West Fork Trail (Trail #561)**. 3. The most common approach is via the **West Fork San Juan River Trail**, which begins at the West Fork Campground trailhead off US-160, approximately 14 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs. 4. From the trailhead, hike roughly **5 to 6 miles** along the West Fork Trail, following the river upstream. The trail is generally well-marked and passes through beautiful old-growth spruce and fir forest. 5. The hot springs are located along the riverbank on the left (west) side of the trail. Look for steam rising from the pools and social trails leading down to the water's edge. *Note: The GPS coordinates (37.508483, -106.94749) can be used for navigation, but cell service is limited in this area. Download offline maps before your trip.* ## What to Expect Rainbow Hot Springs consists of several small, user-built soaking pools along the banks of the West Fork of the San Juan River. The pools vary in temperature — some are quite hot near the source where geothermal water emerges, while others are cooler where river water mixes in. Visitors often adjust the temperature by moving rocks to allow more or less cold river water to flow into the pools. The hike to the springs is moderate in difficulty, covering approximately 5 to 6 miles one way with gentle elevation gain through a gorgeous river valley. The trail passes through dense conifer forest and crosses the river in several places — expect wet crossings, especially during spring snowmelt. Waterproof footwear or sandals suitable for creek crossings are recommended. Because of the distance, many visitors choose to make this an overnight backpacking trip, camping near the springs (follow Leave No Trace principles and check current San Juan National Forest regulations for camping). Day trips are also possible for strong hikers. The springs are most popular during the cooler months of fall and early winter, when the contrast between the hot water and crisp mountain air is especially enjoyable. In winter, the trail may require snowshoes or skis, and conditions can be challenging. During spring runoff, river crossings can be difficult or dangerous. As with all natural hot springs, the water is not treated or tested. While the mineral-rich geothermal water has historically been valued for its perceived therapeutic properties, visitors should use their own judgment regarding water contact and consumption. The pools are clothing-optional by common practice, and the remote setting means you should be prepared with adequate supplies, as there are no facilities at the springs.