Radium Hot Springs | Colorado Hot Springs

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Radium Hot Springs is a primitive hot springs pool located on the banks of the Colorado River. The closest city to Radium to the north is Kremmling and to the south is Eagle and Edwards. The pool actually sits near the base of a 60 foot cliff. Cliff-jumpers will make the plunge before over swimming to the hot springs.

The walk to Radium Hot Springs is about twenty minutes. The quickest way is actually by raft or kayak. Another option is a 4x4 only bumpy road, then a shorter hike.

Facility:

This primitive hot springs is located in the wilderness along the Colorado River. There is one main pool, about twenty feet in diameter. The temperature on average will be around 90° F. It's not uncommon to spot wildlife, rafters, fisherman and river tubers making using of the area.

There are primitive campsites in the parking lot. It's managed by the BLM and it's free to camp. Dispersed camping is also permitted in other places.

Time to Go:

Since this a primitive hot springs along a river, your best bet for visiting is summer into fall. The river may be too high in spring due to winter snow run-off. The county road to the hot springs is kept open during the winter so it could be worth a visit then too.

Atmosphere:

Secluded, natural, primitive setting; Rafting groups are common during the peak summer season, crowds quiet down after July.

Getting There:

From Kremmling - Head south on Hwy 9 for 2 miles to Trough Springs Rd/Co Rd 1, turn right. IFollow this for 13 miles until you reach Co Hwy 11. There should be sign at the intersection for radium, make a right. Follow for a mile or two until you reach a parking area.

From Eagle/Edwards - Take I-70 east or west to US 131 north to Steamboat Springs. In 13 miles, at State Bridge Landing, make a right onto County Road 1. Continue for 9 miles. Make a left onto Co Hwy 11. Follow for a mile or two to parking lot at the trailhead.

The hike is 1.1 miles to the springs. Some signage should appear across the street from the parking area. A dirt trail goes up the side of the hill. Once at the top, it's all flat until you have to descend into the hot springs. The climb down is fairly easy.

Another summer activity on the Colorado River is river tubing.