Three commercial hot springs sit within thirty minutes of Salida. Mt. Princeton is the dramatic creek-side experience; Cottonwood is the quieter, soaking-focused boutique option; and the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is the walkable downtown option (and the largest indoor hot spring pool in Colorado). All three are commercial — there are no legitimate wild hot springs in this section of the valley.
Mt. Princeton Hot Springs
The largest and most family-oriented. Multiple thermal pools at varying temperatures, a waterslide complex, an adults-only pool, and the iconic creek-side experience where natural hot water bubbles up directly into Chalk Creek and you build your own stone soaking pools in the river. Sunset in the creek pools, with the Chalk Cliffs glowing pink above, is one of the great Salida moments.
Cottonwood Hot Springs
Quieter, smaller, more meditative. Several mineral pools at different temperatures, lithium-rich water, a clothing-optional area, on-site lodging, and a no-kids-after-dark policy that keeps the evenings genuinely peaceful. Reservations required.
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center
The downtown option, walkable from anywhere on F Street. The pools are large and tile-lined — more municipal swimming pool than wild soak, but the water is genuine geothermal and the convenience is unbeatable on a cold winter evening.
Local insider tips
- →Mt. Princeton creek-side pools at sunset = the iconic experience.
- →Cottonwood for date night and quiet adult soaking.
- →Salida Aquatic Center for a quick walkable soak from downtown lodging.
- →Cottonwood requires reservations and caps capacity — book ahead.
- →Mt. Princeton can be crowded on Saturdays — go midweek if possible.
Frequently asked
Are there free hot springs near Salida?+
No — all three commercial hot springs in the valley are paid. There are no legitimate, accessible wild hot springs in this section of the Arkansas River Valley.
Which hot spring is best for kids?+
Mt. Princeton — multiple pools, waterslides, and the creek experience.
Last reviewed: May 2026