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Lemon Hot Spring emerges at 91°F from Bureau of Land Management property in San Miguel County at 7,320 feet elevation, where federal management ensures public access to this protected thermal feature near the exclusive mountain resort community of Mountain Village.
The spring sits just 256 feet from Stella Drive on BLM land in the rugged San Juan Mountains near Telluride's alpine domain. The landscape features mixed conifer forest transitioning to subalpine vegetation at this elevation. The modest thermal temperature makes bathing feasible with minimal cooling, and the BLM location provides a public alternative to commercial resort facilities.
History of Lemon Hot Spring
Lemon Hot Spring water circulates through bedrock beneath the Uncompahgre plateau, accumulating dissolved minerals including 760 mg/L sodium, 840 mg/L sulfate, 270 mg/L chloride, and notable iron at 890 micrograms per liter. The BLM designation balances public access with extractive-use protections, maintaining the thermal resource for public benefit while permitting responsible development.
This BLM-managed spring provides public access to thermal soaking without resort fees. The roadside approach minimizes hiking, though the mountain elevation means seasonal snow can temporarily close access. Best visited from June through October when the high country remains accessible. Leave no trace and respect BLM regulations.
Is Lemon Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
Lemon Hot Spring is well suited for warm-water soaking and easy day trips.
Annual Precip: 25.1 in
Annual Snow: 97.7 in
January
Air 23°F · Water 91°F · +68° contrast
December
Air 23°F · Water 91°F · +68° contrast
February
Air 26°F · Water 91°F · +65° contrast
January offers 44°F more contrast than July
Recent Temperature
91.4°F
(33.0°C)
Measured Jan 05, 1978
The water at Lemon Hot Spring is neutral (pH 7.2). 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
Matterhorn Campground is located along the San Juan Skyway (Colorado Highway 145), near the quaint town of Telluride, at an elevation of 8,500 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its beautiful scenery, hiking and off-road opportunities.Recreation
The Galloping Goose Trail #449 can be accessed from the campground. This 8.4-mile trail leads past a restored train trestle, over two trail bridges and along segments of the historic Rio Grande Southern Railway. The trail is open to hiking, bi...
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 Matterhorn
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
17 miles from Mountain Village, CO
USGS Quad: (PLACERVILLE 7.5) · PP 492: 26.0 · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: MOAB
What is the water temperature at Lemon Hot Spring?
Lemon Hot Spring has a water temperature of 91°F (33°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Lemon Hot Spring located?
Lemon Hot Spring is located in San Miguel County, Colorado at 7,320 feet elevation, near Mountain Village. Coordinates: 38.0140°N, 108.0540°W.
How do I get to Lemon Hot Spring?
Lemon Hot Spring has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Stella Drive (256 ft from the road).
Is Lemon Hot Spring free to visit?
Lemon Hot Spring has Open access. It is managed by Bureau of Land Management.
Can I camp near Lemon Hot Spring?
Yes, Matterhorn is located nearby (15.0 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Lemon Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.2 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Lemon Hot Spring?
Lemon Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Lemon Hot Spring crowded?
Lemon Hot Spring is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Lemon Hot Spring?
Essentials for Lemon Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.