Waunita Hot Springs Ranch

## Overview Waunita Hot Springs Ranch is a historic guest ranch and hot springs destination nestled in the mountains of Gunnison County, Colorado, at an elevation of approximately 9,000 feet. Located along County Road 887 east of Gunnison, the ranch sits in a scenic valley surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Sawatch Range and the Cochetopa Hills. The geothermally heated springs on the property have long been a draw for visitors, with water temperatures historically reported to be warm enough to fill a large outdoor swimming pool that serves as the ranch's centerpiece attraction. The hot springs at this location have been known and used for well over a century. The name "Waunita" is believed to derive from a Ute word, reflecting the area's deep indigenous heritage — the Ute people inhabited these mountain valleys long before European settlement and were likely among the first to use the thermal waters. By the late 1800s, the springs had gained attention from settlers and travelers, and over the decades the site evolved into a working guest ranch that combines traditional Western ranch life with the appeal of natural hot springs. The GPS coordinates for Waunita Hot Springs Ranch are approximately 38.515336, -106.509178, placing it roughly 18 miles east of the town of Gunnison along a scenic mountain road. ## Directions 1. From **Gunnison, CO**, head east on **US Highway 50**. 2. After approximately 11 miles, turn left (north) onto **County Road 887** (also sometimes referred to as Waunita Hot Springs Road). Watch for signage indicating the turn. 3. Follow County Road 887 north for roughly 7–8 miles as it winds through a beautiful mountain valley. 4. The ranch and hot springs are located at **8007 County Road 887, Gunnison, CO 81230**. *Note: County Road 887 is a rural mountain road. Conditions may vary seasonally, and winter travel may require a vehicle with good clearance or four-wheel drive. Check local road conditions before heading out, especially during late fall through early spring.* ## What to Expect Waunita Hot Springs Ranch operates as a guest ranch, so access to the hot springs is typically available to registered guests rather than as a public drop-in facility. The ranch has historically offered a large outdoor swimming pool fed by the natural hot springs, providing a warm soak with stunning mountain views. The water is geothermally heated and has been enjoyed by visitors for generations. The surrounding landscape is classic high-country Colorado — expansive meadows, aspen groves, conifer forests, and panoramic mountain vistas. The ranch property and nearby public lands offer opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Elk, mule deer, and a variety of bird species are commonly spotted in the area. Because this is a privately operated ranch, visitors should contact Waunita Hot Springs Ranch in advance to inquire about availability, rates, and access policies. The ranch has traditionally operated on a seasonal schedule, with summer being the primary guest season. Prospective visitors are encouraged to confirm current hours and offerings before making the trip.