Soaking It Up

A Time-Honored Health Ritual

In fact, the healing properties of mineral-rich thermal waters have inspired cultures for thousands of years—just as they do today in the Roaring Fork Valley.

In ancient Greece, hot springs were dedicated to gods and goddesses and thought to have “divine” healing powers. Later, the Romans built extensive public bathhouses around natural hot springs throughout their empire—including in Bath, England—to serve as places for both rejuvenation and socializing. In North America, Indigenous peoples’ use of thermal springs dates back thousands of years, with many of these springs found throughout what is today the western US. In Japan, people consider the centuries-old tradition of bathing in hot springs essential to physical health, mental relaxation and spiritual purification.

The Utes were the first visitors to the mineral-rich waters of what is today in the Roaring Fork Valley. During summer travels, they soaked in the hot springs, naming the largest of them “Yampah.” Later, settlers including Captain Richard Sopris heard of these legendary waters, which drew tourists and led to the acquisition and creation of what would become Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.

“Soaking relaxes both your body and mind.”

Naturally Healthy

Hot springs are more than a natural hot tub with a beautiful view. The water flowing into them is rich in minerals such as boron, calcium, sodium, potassium, iron and magnesium. These minerals are absorbed while you soak.

“Soaking relaxes both your body and mind,” said Robert Van Cleve, Doctor of Physical Therapy and board-certified orthopaedic clinical specialist. “It also offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits. These include improved cardiovascular function, such as lower blood pressure and preventing vascular dysfunction. Soaking is also effective in reducing inflammation and improving chronic conditions like low back pain and headaches.”

Soaking offers an array of health benefits including:

Boosting blood circulation.

Heat causes your blood vessels to dilate, improving circulation. Good blood circulation can help deliver oxygen and nutrients more efficiently, enhancing your overall cardiovascular health. It also can improve brain performance, making you feel sharper and more focused.

Reducing pain.

While hot springs may not directly address the root cause of chronic pain, a soothing soak can promote natural pain reduction. Minerals such as sulfur, silica and magnesium have anti-inflammatory properties. External absorption can reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis and overuse injuries. The heat can also soothe irritated nerves and reduce the intensity of pain sensations, which is especially beneficial for people with nerve-related conditions like sciatica.

Soothing and healing skin.

Healing hot spring waters can also soothe skin irritations and improve certain conditions like eczema, psoriasis and acne. Minerals in the waters can boost skin health through anti-fungal and antibacterial properties as well as by promoting cell regeneration and enhancing elasticity.

Detoxifying naturally.

Warm hot springs cause your body to sweat, helping to clear clogged pores and eliminating toxins and impurities. The mineral-rich waters can also help to support your body’s natural detoxification processes—for example, by aiding liver function.

Hiking and Hot Springs

Some remote hot springs are only accessible via hiking—and this can add to the health benefits. “It’s the total immersion, in water as well as nature, that makes for such a healthy, rejuvenating experience,” said Van Cleve. “Research has shown that spending time in nature decreases cortisol levels, which in turn lessens the physiological effects of stress.” Time in nature can also help to enhance cognitive function and immune system performance.

Today we know more than ever about the health benefits of hot springs. And like others for thousands of years before us, we still seek them out for relaxation, stress relief and physical rejuvenation.

Four Local Hot Spots to Visit

Ready to experience the benefits of soaking? Check out these area hot spots, from resort to remote hike-in options:

GLENWOOD HOT SPRINGS RESORT

Glenwood Springs, CO
Located 40 miles from Aspen, the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has been a historic attraction since 1888. The pool is open from 9 am to 9 pm daily. For more information: hotspringspool.com

IRON MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS

Glenwood Springs, CO
The newly renovated facility offers 32 mineral and freshwater pools with different temperatures, many with breathtaking views. Open from 9 am to 10 pm daily. For more information: ironmountainhotsprings.com

AVALANCHE RANCH

Near Redstone, CO
This family-owned hot spring is outside of the Town of Redstone and offers sweeping views of the Crystal River and Mt. Sopris. More at avalancheranch.com

CONUNDRUM HOT SPRINGS

Near Aspen, CO
In non-winter months, soak in the pristine waters of these hot springs at the end of a challenging hike, accessible via Conundrum Creek Trail in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. See more at: alltrails.com

Soaking Safely

Be sure to check with your doctor or a medical professional before soaking in a hot spring to ensure that the practice is safe for you. Then, follow these tips for a soothing experience:

Temperature

Ideal soaking temperatures range between 100°F to 104°F but can vary widely from pool to pool. Dip a toe or foot in first before fully immersing yourself.

Soaking time

Ideal soaking time depends on water temperature, but in general ranges from 10 to 30 minutes per session. For springs that exceed 104°F, limit soaking to 10 to 20 minutes to avoid overheating. Build short breaks into your soaking, especially if you’re a first timer.

Skin safety

Hot springs often contain minerals such as sulfur, calcium, magnesium and silica. While these can offer health benefits, they can also cause irritation or allergic reactions, so be cautious. In addition, don’t submerge open wounds or drink the water, to avoid potential bacteria.

Rehydrating

Drink plenty of water before, during and after soaking to rehydrate, especially if the weather is hot, you plan to soak for an extended time, or you hiked in. Consider bringing snacks or drinks with electrolytes to replace what you lose through sweating.

Hiking in

Some hot springs require a hike in—which makes for a special experience. Be sure you’re prepared with proper footwear and seasonal clothing.

Stay on designated trails and share your destination and planned return time. Once you reach the hot spring, check the bottom and surrounding area for sharp rocks before entering the pool to protect your feet.

What to bring

Pack a swimsuit, towel, plenty of water, some sunscreen if you’ll be outside and maybe a hat or beanie if you’re soaking in the winter, spring or fall when air temperatures are cooler.