Twin Peaks Hot Springs

## Overview Twin Peaks Hot Springs is a remote natural hot spring located in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, near the town of Ouray — often called the "Switzerland of America." Situated at approximately 38.0193° N, 107.6733° W, this geothermal spring sits in a rugged alpine landscape shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity. The San Juan region is renowned for its abundance of natural hot springs, fed by geothermal energy from the area's volcanic past. Twin Peaks Hot Springs is one of the lesser-known soaking spots in the region, offering a more secluded experience compared to the commercially developed springs in nearby Ouray and Ridgway. The geothermal activity in this part of Colorado is driven by residual heat from the ancient Silverton Caldera complex, which produced massive volcanic eruptions roughly 28 million years ago. As snowmelt and groundwater percolate deep underground, they are heated by this geothermal energy and rise back to the surface enriched with dissolved minerals. Visitors have historically reported that the water has a mild mineral smell and a pleasantly warm temperature, though exact temperature readings and mineral composition for this specific spring are not widely documented. ## Directions 1. From Ouray, Colorado, head south on US-550 (the Million Dollar Highway). 2. Use the GPS coordinates **38.0193, -107.6733** to navigate to the approximate location of Twin Peaks Hot Springs, as the spring is situated in a remote area without a formal street address. 3. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, as access roads in the San Juan Mountains are often unpaved, narrow, and steep. 4. Be prepared for seasonal road closures — many mountain roads in this area are impassable during winter and early spring due to snow. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates provided and general knowledge of the area. Visitors are encouraged to consult local ranger stations or outfitters in Ouray for the most current access information.* ## What to Expect Twin Peaks Hot Springs is a backcountry hot spring experience. Expect a natural, undeveloped soaking area surrounded by the dramatic peaks and dense forests of the San Juan Mountains. The setting is remote and scenic, with panoramic mountain views typical of this high-altitude region. Because this is a primitive, undeveloped spring, there are no facilities, signage, or maintained trails leading directly to the site. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate footwear, layers for changing mountain weather, and enough supplies for a day in the backcountry. Cell service in the area may be limited or nonexistent. The best time to visit is typically from late spring through early fall (June–October), when mountain roads and trails are most accessible. Water flow and temperature at natural hot springs can vary with the seasons — spring runoff may cool the pools, while late summer and fall often provide the warmest and most consistent soaking conditions. As with all natural hot springs, water quality can fluctuate and has not been officially tested for safety at this location. The water has historically been used for soaking rather than drinking. Always exercise caution around geothermal features, as water temperatures can vary unpredictably.