Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center

## Overview Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is the largest indoor hot springs pool in Colorado, located in the charming mountain town of Salida along the Arkansas River. Fed by natural geothermal springs, the facility channels mineral-rich hot spring water into multiple pools maintained at varying temperatures for year-round enjoyment. The hot springs in the Salida area have been known and used for generations — the town's name itself means "exit" or "departure" in Spanish, a nod to its position as a gateway through the Rocky Mountains. The aquatic center is a municipally operated facility situated at an elevation of approximately 7,083 feet in Chaffee County. The geothermal water that supplies the pools originates from deep underground along the Upper Arkansas River valley, part of the Rio Grande Rift zone, where tectonic activity heats groundwater before it rises to the surface. The natural spring water has historically been valued by locals and visitors alike for its warmth and mineral content. The center typically features a large lap pool, a leisure pool, and a smaller hot soaking pool, with water temperatures ranging from comfortably warm to hot. It is one of the few community-accessible hot springs facilities in central Colorado and serves as both a recreational destination and a local gathering place. ## Directions 1. From Denver, head west on US-285 South through Fairplay and over Trout Creek Pass into the Arkansas River valley — approximately 2.5 hours. 2. As you approach Salida, US-285 merges with US-50. Continue into town. 3. The Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is located on the east side of downtown Salida, near the intersection of Rainbow Boulevard (US-50/US-291) and E Street. 4. GPS coordinates: **38.5250, -106.0095**. The facility is easily visible from the main road through town and has a dedicated parking lot. 5. From the west (via Monarch Pass on US-50), simply continue east on US-50 into Salida; the aquatic center will be on your right as you enter the downtown area. ## What to Expect Visitors will find a well-maintained, publicly operated aquatic facility with indoor pools filled by natural hot spring water. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Arkansas River valley, as well as skiers coming off Monarch Mountain. The pools are indoors, so the center is open and enjoyable year-round regardless of weather. Water temperatures vary by pool — the soaking pool tends to be the warmest, while the lap pool is kept at a cooler temperature suitable for swimming. The facility typically offers amenities such as locker rooms, showers, and a small front desk area. Salida itself is a vibrant arts community with a historic downtown filled with galleries, restaurants, breweries, and shops — making it easy to pair a soak with a full day of exploring. The town sits along the Arkansas River, which is renowned for whitewater rafting in the warmer months. Nearby attractions include Monarch Mountain ski area, the Continental Divide, and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails in the surrounding San Isabel National Forest. As this is a municipal facility, there are typically modest admission fees and set operating hours. It's advisable to check current hours and any seasonal schedule changes before visiting, especially around holidays. The center can be busier on weekends and during ski season.