File:Former service station, Hartsel, CO 2023-03-24.jpg — cc by-sa 4.0
Hartsel Hot Springs emerges at 126 degrees Fahrenheit at 8,954 feet elevation in Park County's South Park basin—one of Colorado's hottest springs when measured against surrounding air temperature, standing 90 degrees above ambient conditions.
A short walk of 574 feet from the nearest road leads through high-elevation sagebrush steppe and sparse grasses to where thermal water reaches the surface. The mountain setting at nearly 9,000 feet offers views across South Park toward the Mosquito Range, with winter snowfall averaging 46 inches annually across the remote high plain.
History of Hartsel Hot Springs
Hartsel Hot Springs' exceptional heat relative to ambient temperature suggests deep circulation through the crystalline basement rocks underlying South Park. The spring marks a significant geothermal anomaly in Colorado's high plateaus, indicating focused upflow along deep fault structures in the Rio Grande rift province.
A short walk of 574 feet from the road provides ready access without technical hiking. Water exceeds 126 degrees Fahrenheit—dangerously hot. Small natural pools allow brief immersion after cooling slightly. Summer provides the only practical season; park roads close in winter. Fair-weather travel from Fairplay via unpaved routes required.
Is Hartsel Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Hartsel Hot Springs is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 13.9 in
Annual Snow: 46.2 in
January
Air 11°F · Water 126°F · +115° contrast
December
Air 12°F · Water 126°F · +114° contrast
February
Air 15°F · Water 126°F · +111° contrast
January offers 51°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
113.0°F
(45.0°C)
Measured Apr 26, 1976
The water at Hartsel Hot Springs is slightly acidic (pH 6.6). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
May support bone density and joint health
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Overview
Happy Meadows Campground is situated along the South Platte River near the Eleven Mile Reservoir and Eleven Mile Canyon. Excellent fishing, tubing, and hiking await visitors.
Eleven Mile Canyon is rich in natural resources and historic significance. Originally called Granite Canyon, the towering gray walls rise 500 feet above the river.Recreation
World-class trout fishing is a major attraction on the South Platte. Visitors can also venture to Florissant Fossil Beds to view fossils...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Happy Meadows
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
0 miles from Fairplay, CO
USGS Quad: HARTSEL 7.5 · PP 492: 17.0 · NOAA: 3.0 · AMS Map: DENVER
What is the water temperature at Hartsel Hot Springs?
Hartsel Hot Springs has a water temperature of 126°F (52°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hartsel Hot Springs located?
Hartsel Hot Springs is located in Park County, Colorado at 8,954 feet elevation, near Fairplay. Coordinates: 39.0170°N, 105.7930°W.
How do I get to Hartsel Hot Springs?
Hartsel Hot Springs has Short Walk road access (0.1 mi from the road).
Can I camp near Hartsel Hot Springs?
Yes, Happy Meadows is located nearby (10.1 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Hartsel Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 6.6 (slightly acidic).
Is it safe to soak at Hartsel Hot Springs?
At 126°F, Hartsel Hot Springs is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hartsel Hot Springs crowded?
Hartsel Hot Springs sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hartsel Hot Springs?
Essentials for Hartsel Hot Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.