Piedra River Hot Springs
Piedra River Hot Springs emerges at 108°F on US Forest Service land at 6,881 feet elevation in the San Juan National Forest, where public access to this thermal feature reflects federal stewardship of geothermal resources. Modest temperature rise of 63.4°F above ambient conditions characterizes this moderate-heat spring.
The spring sits 1,567 feet from First Fork Road, requiring a short walk through mixed conifer forest typical of the southern San Juan mountains. The surrounding landscape showcases the transition zone between lower elevation riparian areas and high mountain terrain. The Piedra River provides acoustic backdrop and water source for the forest ecosystem.
The Piedra River drainage holds geothermal interest among basin explorers and naturalists, with the spring representing one of several thermal features in this USFS-managed territory. Protection status 3 indicates management allowing both public access and potential extractive uses such as timber harvest. Deep subsurface heat provides the thermal energy.
The spring is accessed via a short walk of approximately 1,567 feet from First Fork Road, suitable for most visitors. The Ute Campground lies 12.6 kilometers away near Chimney Rock National Monument with excellent hiking access and stream fishing. Visit May through October for best trail conditions; winter snow complicates access. The area offers solitude compared to more developed springs.
Is Piedra River Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Overview Ute Campground is located on US Hwy 160 across from Chimney Rock National Monument, 15 miles west of Pagosa Springs, 25 miles east of Bayfield, and 18 miles north of Arbolles, just west of the intersection with Colorado 151. Visitors enjoy quick access to Chimney Rock National Monument entrance and a centralized location to USFS trail systems, lake, and stream fishing. Recreation Ute Campground is the only access to Forest Service land on Haystack Mountain. Hiking views of Chimney R...