Conundrum Hot Springs are an iconic, if over-popular hiking destination near Aspen, Colo. ... And be forewarned: Like most wilderness springs these ones are clothing-optional and a … Conundrum Hot Springs (Aspen, CO) ... Nestled beneath the San Juan Mountains, this Ridgway spot is a clothing-optional (don't be a pussy) hot springs, much like the others. The temperature here ranges from 105 - 100°F (41 - 38°C) depending on the season. Due to the length of the hike to the springs, the Conundrum Creek Trail is recommended as an overnight trek. No one was skinny dipping when I was there but a girl was washing her hair… Unlike some of the other more natural hot springs soaking areas in Colorado (say, that feature river rock walls or pebble floors), Dakota Hot Springs has just one concrete, free-form pool. Clothing is optional in the pools, so it's likely there will be some interesting characters to meet. Check out the Front Range Naturists. Conundrum Hot Springs is a trip completely worth the effort. They were respectful yet unbashful. The view was spectacular. Embedded within the Weminuche Wilderness, a collection of three hot springs, called the Rainbow Hot Springs, lie along the San Juan River, offering one of the best scenic backdrops of any hot springs in the state. There are several excellent day hikes … Conundrum Hot Springs … Once a sacred healing place for Native Americans, Sierra … 7 Exploratory Hikes At Mesa Verde National Park, 10 Wonderful Winter Vacation Spots in Colorado, Quick Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in Denver, How D.I.A.’s Murals Feed Conspiracy Theorist, A Brief Timeline of Colorado’s Ski and Snowboard History. Squirrel Creek Lodge outside of Denver, in Littleton near Chatfield Park, is known as a "lifestyle resort" and is popular among swingers. This group has a calendar of events for members. Mountain Air Ranch also has tent sites and RV hookups. Day Hiking Around the Springs. This is not an official nudist getaway, and there may be families around (although the trek is too intense for most little ones), so be respectful of people around you and make sure everyone is consensual, lest you end up in an awkward position. Clothing is optional; Rainbow Hot Springs Rainbow Hot Springs in Mineral. People are feeling very freeeee and have hiked a long ass way to get there. Looking for more info on clothing-optional activities, destinations and clubs in Colorado? It features a large sunning deck and a natural waterfall. Orvis Hot Springs is a year-round, clothing-optional, natural hot springs resort in … There are also private indoor tubs in rooms that shut and lock. The hot springs have one main pool and few smaller springs downhill. Conundrum Hot Springs, Conundrum Creek Trail #1981 The Conundrum Hot Springs are located across the creek about 100 yards away (8.5 miles : 11,222'). So reservations are highly recommended. Clothing is optional, and expect a lively crowd. Conundrum Hot Springs is allegedly a clothing-optional spot, often frequented by naked locals. The 8.5-mile long hike along Conundrum Creek leads you to natural hot springs with fantastic views of the entire valley. Clothing Optional. No Selfies. Temperature vary in season. Still, there are certain spots in the state where taking your clothes off is thoroughly accepted (or expected), including hot-springs resorts that are clothing-optional. You can also pitch a tent or park your RV (no longer than 30 feet) in a small campground that accommodates up to 24 people. For the love of all that is holy, leave the selfie stick at home. Located in the beautiful Clearwater National Forest, Weir Creek Hot Springs pools are walled by primitive rocks and gravels and among a gorgeous landscape of cedars and rock cliffs with spectacular views. That being said, check with local rules and regulations prior to planning a trip to this destination. People are feeling very freeeee and have hiked a long ass way to get there. Orvis Hot Springs. After you park your car, there is still a 2-mile hike down (very steep) to the hot springs. Two 14ers, Castle and Conundrum and a 13er, Castlebra. Important to note: A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required to reach Strawberry Hot Springs in the winter months, with the ice and snow commonly found on the rustic roads. Conundrum Hot Springs These clothing-optional hot springs sit at an elevation of 11,200 feet, and you’ve definitely earned your soak if you hiked in from Conundrum Creek Trailhead. Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products and services; you can learn more about our The … ... Plan for the possibility of nude folks; this is a clothing-optional spot. However, those who get an early start and can drag themselves from the pools will be … There's one large pool and one small pool in the main area where most people congregate. Clothing is optional in the pools, so it's likely there will be some interesting characters to meet. Conundrum Hot Springs is located on Conundrum Creek Trail just outside Aspen, Colorado within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. It’s closed Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. There is also a slightly smaller and cooler pool just downstream. That is, with oodles of open space and forested land for backcountry adventures, it's not too difficult to find a secluded spot where no one would notice (or care) if you lay out on a boulder or cool off in a refreshing river in the buff. There are 16 campsites in the area of the hot springs. Basic lodging includes cabins, a covered wagon, and even an old train caboose. Make sure that you do not bring any glass containers into a wilderness area. NOTE: Beginning April 2018, Conundrum Hot Springs will be transitioning to an overnight permit/reservation system. So, if you have puritanical sensibilities, you may wanna check them at the gate (along with your bathing suit). The Conundrum Hot Springs are located across the creek about 100 yards away (8.5 miles : 11,222'). Keep this in mind if you're bringing children. NOTE: Beginning April 2018, Conundrum Hot Springs will be transitioning to an overnight permit/reservation system. What's cool about Orvis is that it doesn't heat or treat its water in any way; all the minerals that soothe your skin and sore muscles are completely natural. If you're looking to hang out for a few days, you can tackle the nearby Triangle pass or Conundrum Peak. There are several excellent day hikes available from the campsites at Conundrum Hot Springs. Lodging here includes basic rooms (no televisions) that come with cozy robes for covering up on your trek back and forth to the hot springs. More Nudist and Naturist Resources in Colorado. Also, its water is packed with lithium instead of sulfur, so it doesn't stink like a rotten egg. Aimee is a Colorado native with nearly 20 years of experience as a professional journalist. Lodging includes tent and RV sites, plus private cabins, lodge rooms and co-ed, dorm-like rooms with bunk beds. The view was spectacular. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. This pristine, undeveloped area is the perfect backdrop for this amazing natural hot spring. Clothing Optional. It's part of the nonprofit Orient Land Trust and offers not only numerous soaking options in natural rock ponds along wilderness trails, but also concrete swimming pools. Conundrum Hot Springs creates a natural infinity pool, with unparalleled views, to boot. However, those who get an early start and can drag themselves from the pools will be … Beverages and libations must be in a can or box, and packed out with you. High in the mountains of Colorado, Conundrum Hot Springs is one of the country’s best hot springs. They explained to us that nudity in these hot springs is a Conundrum tradition. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. Expect to share the popular, clothing optional pools with fellow backpackers staying at the 18 campsites scattered around the hot springs. Desert Reef Hot Spring. Children are not allowed after dark. Enjoying the outdoors—plus the ranch's tennis, volleyball and hiking opportunities—might be a lot more, er, comfortable in warm-warmer temperatures. When it's at capacity, it allows no more visitors. The pool at Desert Reef Hot Spring in Florence (about 2.5 hours south of Denver), is clothing-optional every day of the week except Friday. The Condundrum Hot Springs are communal. Conundrum Hot Springs is an undeveloped set of mineral pools in the Elk Range between Apsen and Crested Butte, CO. You must hike to get here, but the reward is worth the effort. The springs limits visitation. Leila is an L.A.-based luxury travel and lifestyle writer with over five years of experience covering destination guides, hotel reviews, restaurant openings, travel rewards programs, and buying guides. The temperature range between 100-104 degrees. The views of craggy peaks and towering pines in the Conundrum Creek valley are stunning. To our surprise, when we reached the Deep Creek we discovered that these are nude hot springs! (Don't expect to be able to plug in a hairdryer in the changing room after your soak.). Conundrum Hot Springs Snowmass, CO. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Recent years have brought a number of new rules and policies, including a permitting system for camping. Best of all, the water does not contain any measurable sulfur or iron. This luxury resort is named the world’s largest hot springs pool. For that matter, why are you … Peak temperature: 102 degrees Clothing: Optional Squirrel Creek itself is a stunning property with multiple rooms indoors and an expansive outdoor garden area with different hangout spots, as well as animals that live on the grounds that provide a serene atmosphere. One indoor pool does require bathing suits, which is the best pool for a family-friendly dip. There are three distinct stream crossings you'll have to make. Clothing is optional at the pools and more people choose to swim in the buff than with swimsuits. It is a difficult out and back trail, but well worth the hike after getting to soak in the pristine waters of Conundrum Hot Springs. Clothing is optional. On Fridays from 10am to 6pm clothing is required, then optional again from 6pm to 10pm. On every day but Tuesday, bathing suits are optional at Dakota Hot Springs, a little more than two hours south of Denver. The upper pool is large and where most hikers gather. Lodging is minimal here: one cabin, as well as four lodge rooms, three of which have a shared bathroom. Here's a peek of Colorado's best places to get undressed. The ideal accessory: as much champagne as you can carry. Glenwood Hot Springs, Colorado. The remote Conundrum Hot Springs can be reached only via an 8.5-mile hike from a trailhead near Aspen. Scheduled activities include bingo nights, karaoke, talent shows and bocce tournaments. My older son admired their confidence. The property has several different soaking areas, and four are outside, surrounded by lush and colorful gardens that make it feel like the Garden of Eden. A side note: The students in the pool fed by the main hot spring were all completely naked. This area carries special legal designation to protect its natural, undeveloped and untrammeled qualities as well as to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude or primitive and unconfined recreation. Even before you reach the steaming waters of Conundrum Hot Springs, thick, shady groves of towering Aspen’s give way to sprawling grassy meadows of wildflowers. The upper pool is large and where most hikers gather. This clothing optional facility considers themselves “family-oriented” with a … After sunset, clothing is often optional. The hiking trail takes you through woods and meadows and across three rivers on log bridges. There's one large pool and one small pool in the main area where most people congregate. The hottest pool is a basin where the water heated by a hydroelectric plant; it varies from 104 to 108 degrees. During the day, bathing suits are required, but after dark when lighting is minimal in the natural environment, you are welcome to bare all. Make sure that you do not bring any glass containers into a wilderness area. Clothing is optional throughout the property. My older son admired their confidence. Conundrum Hot Springs claims the highest hot spring in America, sitting at an elevation of 11,200 feet at the base of the Maroon Bells near Aspen in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. It calls it "open air naturism," stating that "nudity is not inherently indecent, suggestive, nor demeaning." Conundrum Hot Springs in Aspen, CO Consider this the wilderness equivalent of an après-ski hot tub: a set of jacuzzi-sized cauldrons carved into a ravine just 18 miles outside Aspen. Due to the length of the hike to the springs, the Conundrum Creek Trail is recommended as an overnight trek. The hot springs have one main pool and few smaller springs downhill. This is a members-only property (with an inexpensive membership fee) and claims to have high standards of etiquette and behavior. Word has it that the Conundrum Hot Springs turn into a crazy party at night. It … This hot spring is clothing optional and free. To find the springs, head south on route 395 from Bridgeport for half a mile, then turn left at Jack Sawyer Road, just before the ranger station. Clothing is Optional in the Hot Springs … Because duh. If you're looking to hang out for a few days, you can tackle the nearby Triangle pass or Conundrum Peak. Conundrum Hot Springs, located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness just outside of Aspen, Colorado is a truly incredible backcountry experience. Clothing is optional, and expect a lively crowd. 1 pool; 100° F; Yampah Spa Hot Springs Vapor Caves But be warned, clothing is definitely optional. review process here. Recent years have brought a number of new rules and policies, including a permitting system for … Clothing is optional. Guests can use a community kitchen (oh yes, in the nude), and the Lost Bikini Grill is open in the summer. You’re literally in the middle of nowhere in the middle of nature. We didn’t realize this was a clothing-optional oasis until we got very close to it. Still, the reward is phenomenal: tent campsites (permit required) around a couple of natural hot springs set at 11,200 feet in elevation, including one that resembles an infinity pool. They were respectful yet unbashful. Sierra Hot Springs | Sierraville, California. 4.75 Valley View Hot Springs ... Closed; Clothing Optional. This clothing optional family hot springs resort is open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The temperature range between 100-104 degrees. Beverages and libations must be in a can or box, and packed out with you. Uncover Colorado - Vacations, Travel & Tourism | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer, Stay Overnight at these 3 Private Hot Springs, Spend a Day or Night at these 15 Hot Springs. These natural hot springs that reach 104 degrees are known for their off-the-grid setting in Steamboat Springs. The Condundrum Hot Springs are communal. Expect to see other campers clothed during the day, with many folks stripping down to nothing to soak under a star-lit sky once the sun goes down. Valley View has 11 pools, six natural pools built over the springs and five concrete basins into which untreated hot springs water is piped. Kids are welcome at this clothing-optional pool, and stated policy forbids any public displays of affection or any "close body contact" while nude. It also welcomes adult nudists every Saturday and Sunday. Valley View Hot Springs in the San Luis Valley. Climbing 1,500 feet, the 6-mile trail leads to a colorful rushing waterfall where the most popular hot … That's close to Ouray, one of the most scenic towns in the state. There is also a slightly smaller and cooler pool just downstream. Conundrum Hot Springs. 4.75 Valley View Hot Springs ... Closed; Clothing Optional. You’re literally in the middle of nowhere in the middle of nature. A bonus: The pool water, which averages about 95 to 98 degrees, is continually changed by the natural artesian flow of the well source and contains therapeutic salts, soda and calcium. Places to Sleep in Colorado, The 20 Best Things to Do in Steamboat Springs in the Summer, 10 New England Places Where You Can Take It All Off, Tips on Planning a Gay Vacation in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Top 16 Things to Do in Colorado in Summer, Best Short Road Trips and Getaways from LA, 332 Travel-Related Black Friday Deals You Need to Know About. Two 14ers, Castle and Conundrum and a 13er, Castlebra. This is a family-friendly destination. At 11,200 feet, the Conundrum Hot Springs are among the highest hot springs in North America.There are several pools of varying size and temperature. This is a one-of-a-kind hike is an experience that you’ll never forget. This 150-acre, family nudist resort is just west of Denver and open year-round, but it may seem more appealing to strip down during the warmer summer months. Word has it that the Conundrum Hot Springs turn into a crazy party at night. The trek in is a moderate one—never too steep, but it's not a short and easy skip through the woods either. Conundrum Hot Springs. Families are accommodated with a kids' toy and game room, outdoor playground and heated outdoor pool. The hot springs are lovely year-round, but they feel especially incredible after a day on the Steamboat slopes. The Best Hot Springs in California: Your Guide on Where to Soak, The 18 Best Places to Go Swimming in Colorado in the Summer, Bet You Don't Know About These 9 Lesser-Known Hot Springs in Colorado, 10 Reasons to Visit Colorado During the 'Mud Season', California's Best Nudist Resorts: The Complete Guide, 12 Vacation Destinations Within 6 Hours From Denver, The Best Clothing-Optional Resorts and Nude Beaches in the USA, The Weirdest (and Coolest!) 1 pool; 100° F; Yampah Spa Hot Springs Vapor Caves She is the head writer and editor for TravelBoulder.com. However, Conundrum Hot Springs has seen a dramatic increase in use over recent years, which has led to a pile up of human impacts.”). There are also campsites available in the summer months. The “Naked” Truth About the Deep Creek Hot Springs. This clothing optional facility considers themselves “family-oriented” with a … A mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Aspen, Conundrum Creek Trail is an 8.5-mile trek that combines jaw-dropping mountain scenery, overnight backcountry camping, and the opportunity to soak in warm natural hot springs at the end of the hike. If bringing kids, be aware that the upper pools is often clothing optional. After sunset, clothing is often optional. Temperature vary in season. Roughly 8 of them are a close walk to the springs, the rest are a bit more distant. (Seriously, it looks like a little Switzerland.) The largest is the swimming pool: 75 feet long, kept at about 88 degrees year round. If you don't have a car while vacationing in Steamboat Springs, shuttles companies can transport you. There is no stinky, sulfurous odor found in some hot springs throughout the state. Desert Reef Hot Spring. The temperature averages 100° F. The small pools tend to be little cooler.The pools were formed in existing craters or rock through years of visitation. They offer therapeutic soaking in a natural environme… Gem Lake – Photo courtesy of Maggie Dickman. Also, take note that clothing is optional at the hot springs. A side note: The students in the pool fed by the main hot spring were all completely naked. Day Hiking Around the Springs. Conundrum Hot Springs are an iconic, if over-popular hiking destination near Aspen, Colo. ... And be forewarned: Like most wilderness springs these ones are clothing-optional and a … Valley View Hot Springs is a unique and remote hot springs about a 3.5-hour drive southwest from Denver. Orvis Hot Springs is a year-round, clothing-optional, natural hot springs resort in Ridgway, Colorado. Nude is natural, Valley View's website claims. The larger pools can host about a dozen people and are around three foot deep. That being said, check with local rules and regulations prior to planning a trip to this destination. These surreal pools are especially enticing in the evening under Colorado's typical star-filled skies. Conundrum Hot Springs Conundrum Hot Springs is allegedly a clothing-optional spot, often frequented by naked locals. The views from Conundrum Hot Springs are some of the best in the state. Conundrum Hot Springs, Aspen, CO. 1.9K likes. Non member single males are not permitted. Conundrum Hot Springs Snowmass, CO. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Conundrum Hot Springs is an undeveloped set of mineral pools in the Elk Range between Apsen and Crested Butte, CO. You must hike to get here, but the reward is worth the effort. Mineral content is mostly calcium, with no offensive sulfur smell. If bringing kids, be aware that the upper pools is often clothing optional. 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