Desert Reef Hot Spring
Desert Reef Hot Spring emerges in Fremont County's high-desert landscape near Penrose as a warm mineral spring characterized by exceptionally high iron content at 600 micrograms per liter—among the most iron-rich springs documented in Colorado.
Water at 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 Celsius) flows through terrain marked by sedimentary rock formations and sparse desert vegetation. County Road 110 passes within 66 meters, allowing straightforward approach through land dominated by juniper, pinyon, and bitterbrush typical of the Fremont County foothill zone at 5,232 feet.
The spring's unusual iron signature points to its circulation path through iron-rich sedimentary layers, likely sourced from the older Paleozoic rocks underlying the region. Desert Reef illustrates how mineral chemistry varies dramatically even among Colorado's thermal springs, recording specific geological pathways through deep aquifers.
Roadside access from County Road 110 makes this spring easily reachable. Water chemistry—high in iron, sodium, and sulfate—suggests a mineralized system requiring caution regarding water safety. Visit during dry seasons to ensure road access; the area receives light precipitation year-round.
Is Desert Reef Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Desert Reef Hot Spring is slightly acidic (pH 6.3). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), magnesium (known for muscle relaxation and stress relief), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
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