UPDATE ON RICO HOT SPRINGS: These hot springs are NOT located on public land. It is private property and trespassing to go. Rico Hot Springs is CLOSED PERMANENTLY.
Situated on the banks of the Dolores River, Rico Hot Springs was a locals’ favorite, although it’s now on private property and trespassing to enter. The private primitive hot springs had two small pools, a short walk apart.
The first hot springs reached is the most popular and developed. It features a large fiberglass tub filled with hot mineral water, around 100°F, piped from the source. Some wooden benches are located by the pool, but there no other amenities. It’s located only a short distance from the parking area.
The second hot springs pool is about 100 yards upstream, on the other side of the river. It’s not as developed and can be murkier.
The hot springs were found in the late 1970s when miners drilled the geothermal aquifer while searching for core samples. It could’ve been used prior, but no knowledge was recorded.
Getting There
Take Highway 145, aka San Juan Skyway, south from Telluride. After crossing… Rico Hot Springs are on private property and are closed permanently.
Details
Address: CO-145, Rico, CO
Season: Year round
Type: Primitive & Private
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