At 147°F, the source water at Routt Hot Springs is hot enough to cause burns. Some hot springs this hot have cooler side pools or downstream areas suitable for soaking — always test the water temperature before entering.
Routt Hot Springs emerges at a scalding 147°F in Routt County near Steamboat Springs at 7,499 feet elevation, making it one of the hotter springs in northwestern Colorado with temperatures running 107.4°F above ambient conditions.
The spring sits 97 meters from the nearest road in mountain valley terrain near Steamboat Springs. Recent USGS measurements recorded 62°C water with a neutral pH of 7.1. The landscape features mixed aspen and coniferous forest typical of the Park Range. The moderate elevation and proximity to the mountain town create a practical access point for exploring northwest Colorado's thermal resources.
History of Routt Hot Springs
The water chemistry reveals a sodium-chloride signature characteristic of deep geothermal circulation. The spring represents a robust thermal system with consistent high temperatures reflecting substantial subsurface heat flux. Historical documentation remains limited, though the distinctive chemistry suggests this thermal feature has maintained notable output for extended geological timeframes.
Accessible from a short walk off county roads near Steamboat Springs during most seasons. Dry Lake Campground lies 3.8 miles away, serving the Buffalo Pass recreation area. Winter snow averaging 113 inches annually can restrict access, making summer and autumn the most practical visiting seasons. The proximity to Steamboat Springs provides nearby services and accommodation options for trip planning.
Is Routt Hot Springs worth visiting?
Best for
Observing powerful hot springs
Easy day trips
Overnight camping trips
Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Not ideal for
Casual soaking
Routt Hot Springs is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Monthly Climate
18°Jan
21°Feb
29°Mar
34°Apr
44°May
59°Jun
66°Jul
65°Aug
56°Sep
40°Oct
26°Nov
17°Dec
Annual Precip: 23.7 inAnnual Snow: 113.4 in
Best Time to Visit
DecemberAir 17°F · Water 147°F · +130° contrast
JanuaryAir 18°F · Water 147°F · +129° contrast
FebruaryAir 21°F · Water 147°F · +126° contrast
December offers 49°F more contrast than July
USGS Field Measurements
Recent Temperature
143.6°F
(62.0°C)Measured Jul 29, 1975
Water ChemistrySampled 1975-07-29
The water at Routt Hot Springs is neutral (pH 7.1). It is notably rich in chloride (natural antiseptic with skin health benefits).
Overview
Dry Lake Trailhead is located off County Road 60 (Buffalo Pass Road) and is near the Dry Lake Campground. This trailhead provides access to both non-motorized and motorized trails. Access for dirt bikes and other recreational vehicles on Buffalo Pass Road. This is a very high-use year-round trailhead and a gateway to exploring the aspens, sub-alpine firs, and wildflowers of the mountains of the Park Range. A vault toilet is provided at the Trailhead. Dry Lake Trailhead is managed by...
What is the water temperature at Routt Hot Springs?
Routt Hot Springs has a water temperature of 147°F (64°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Routt Hot Springs located?
Routt Hot Springs is located in Routt County, Colorado at 7,499 feet elevation, near Steamboat Springs. Coordinates: 40.5590°N, 106.8490°W.
How do I get to Routt Hot Springs?
Routt Hot Springs has Roadside road access (319 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Routt Hot Springs?
Yes, Dry Lake Campground (Co) is located nearby (3.9 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Routt Hot Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.1 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Routt Hot Springs?
The water at Routt Hot Springs reaches 147°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Routt Hot Springs crowded?
Routt Hot Springs 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 Routt Hot Springs?
Essentials for Routt 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.