• Menu
  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Uncover Colorado Logo

  • Blog
  • Activities
    • Year-round
      • Brewery Tours
      • Casinos & Gaming
      • Colorado Brands
      • Federal Lands
      • Food & Dining
      • Ghost Towns
      • Gondola & Chairlifts
      • Hot Springs
      • Mine Tours
      • Museums
      • Paintball
      • Public Parks
      • Scenic Drives
      • Shopping
      • Sports Teams
      • State Parks
      • Train Rides
      • Transportation
      • Wildlife
      • Zip Lines & Aerial Parks
    • Spring, Summer & Fall
      • Amusement Parks
      • ATV Rentals
      • Biking
      • Boating
      • Camping
      • Drive-In Theaters
      • Fishing
      • Golf Courses
      • Hiking
      • Horseback Riding
      • Rock Climbing
      • Tubing & Paddling
      • Waterfalls
      • Whitewater Rafting
    • Winter
      • Cross Country Skiing
      • Dog Sledding
      • Ice Climbing
      • Ice Fishing
      • Ice Skating
      • Skiing & Snowboarding
      • Sleigh Rides
      • Snow Tubing
      • Snowmobiling
      • Snowshoeing
  • Events
    • January
    • February
    • March
    • April
    • May
    • June
    • July
    • August
    • September
    • October
    • November
    • December
  • Lodging
    • Budget Hotels
    • Historic Hotels
    • Luxury Hotels
    • Bed & Breakfasts
    • Cabins & Glamping
    • Casinos with Lodging
    • Dude Ranches
    • Hot Spring with Lodging
    • Wineries with Lodging
    • Campgrounds
  • Towns
  • Trip Planner
  • Search
  • Blog
  • Activities
  • Events
  • Lodging
  • Towns
  • Trip Planner
Pagosa Springs Colorado
Downtown Pagosa Springs.

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

158
SHARES
FacebookTwitter

Pagosa Springs is home to stunning landscapes, natural getaways, lively festivals, and a million other wonderful things to do. It’s another hot springs town that has a lot of tourist attractions for visitors. There’s a nice downtown section lined with shops, restaurants, and points of historical interest.

Along with the rest and relaxation, you’ll find at the hot springs, there are also plenty of opportunities for more adventurous endeavors. Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and many other winter activities are close by. The warmer months bring peaceful nature hikes to the deepest hot springs aquifer in the country, camping, and plenty of fishing.

7,126 feet up in the San Juan Basin, nature and culture find an expert balance in Archuleta County. Whether you’re searching for black diamond ski trails or simply a cozy spot to take in the gorgeous scenery, this high-elevation Colorado getaway checks every box. As of 2020, there were about 1,751 residents in town.

History

Black and white picture of hot springs
Historic Pagosa Hot Springs before it was developed. Photo by: U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

The Utes were the first group of people to find the famous “Mother Spring” and they took full advantage of the healing benefits of the water. The name “Pagosa” originates from the Ute phrase for “healing waters”. European settlers happened on the spring in the 1860s, and Army physicians documented that the waters were in fact medicinal.

This exciting declaration drew more people to the area, and by 1877 the U.S government designated Pagosa Springs as a township. A railroad was built into town, and tourists flooded in to get a taste of the healing waters. This craze lasted until the mid-1930s when modern medicine practices became more widely accepted.

A few resilient believers stuck around and eventually revived the tourism industry by creating a few motels and inns for visitors to relax in. The Springs Resort cycled through a number of owners throughout the last two decades of the century before finally settling on one in the 1990s. It grew into the luxurious spa and resort that stands today, and Pagosa Springs continues to maintain its reputation as a healing destination.

Main Attractions

The Springs Resort & Spa Pagosa Springs
The Springs Resort & Spa, Pagosa Springs, CO.

Hot Springs – Named for their natural geothermal springs found just downtown, Pagosa Springs is renowned for the relaxation and healing of the mind and body. The Springs Resort is the largest in town with over twenty soaking pools and one of the nicest hotels and spas.

Also downtown, Overlook offers a retreat from the crowds and exceptional views of the area. It also boasts spa facilities but not lodging. Healing Waters is another great option for those looking to spend the night on-site.

Read more about the hot springs near Pagosa Springs.

Wolf Creek Ski Area – With snowfall averaging 465 inches every season, it’s no wonder pros and amateurs alike flock to the lifts throughout the ski season. This resort is not hugely popular with tourists, making it one of the state’s best-kept secrets. It provides top-notch skiing only thirty minutes from downtown Pagosa.

Even though Wolf Creek Ski Resort is lesser-known, it actually boasts the highest snowfall in all of Colorado. While a visit to the unmatched trails at Wolf Creek would be a trip of a lifetime on its own, the quaint village offers more than just winter experiences. Year-round, Pagosa Springs creates an ideal world for any outdoorsman.

Read more about the best things to do in Pagosa Springs.

Recreation

Williams Creek Reservoir Pagosa Springs Colorado
Williams Creek Reservoir, Pagosa Springs, CO. Photo by: Scrubhiker

It’s no secret that the San Juan mountain range is filled with endless recreation. Thrill-seekers will find their days will be reminiscent of summer camp trips filled with fishing on the lake, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and the satisfying soreness after a long, arduous hike.

Summer temperatures averaging in the 80s allow for long bike rides along the Eight Mile Mesaย and rock climbing at Piedra River Trail. Watersport fans may fill out their days with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet skiing at the many lakes found throughout the majestic Navajo State Park.

Camping –

  • There are numerous campgrounds and sites for dispersed car camping on the way to Williams Creek Reservoir. Drive west to Piedra Road (FS 631) and follow that 23 miles north to the lake. Campgrounds include Bridge, Williams Creek, Teal, and Cimarrona.
  • The closest dispersed camping is on Turkey Springs Rd, just north of Hatcher Reservoir. Campsites are anywhere back here on the side of the road. There are also spots right on Piedra Rd close to Williams Creek Res.
  • Pagosa Pines RV Park offers 23 sites with pull-through options, hook-ups, restrooms, and WiFi. It’s a very reasonable distance to downtown Pagosa Springs so it’s easy to access shopping and dining.
  • East Fork campground is about 10 miles from town on a beautiful ridge overlooking the San Juan river. You can also hike down to an excellent trout fishing spot.
  • Read about camping near Pagosa Springs.
Opal Lake from Perimeter Trail Pagosa Springs
Opal Lake from Perimeter Trail, Pagosa Springs. Photo by: Granger Meador

Fishing –

  • San Juan River cuts through downtown, with ample opportunities to cast a line. Trout fishing is great here and you can also find bass, crappie, and the occasional catfish.
  • Williams Reservoir is a remarkable day trip or overnight visit. There are also numerous other lakes on the drive back to William Res including Sullenburger, Hatcher, and Dunnagan reservoirs.

Hiking –

  • Pagosa Peak is only 30 minutes outside of town and is a tough 11 mile hike that will take you straight up the side of the mountain without any switchbacks. The summit offers incredible views of the area, but is only recommended for experienced hikers.
  • Opal Lake trail is a short beautiful hike that has stunning views of Flattop Mountain and alpine meadows. Opal Lake itself has bright turquoise water so it’s worth the trek.
  • Read about the hiking trails near Pagosa Springs.

Accommodations

Overhead view of hot springs resort
Bird’s eye view of The Springs Resort and Spa in Pagosa Springs, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/springsresort

This section contains referral links. If you click through and take action, we may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you.ย 



Booking.com

Alpine Inn – This cozy, modern motel will have everything you need for an enjoyable stay. The rooms are furnished with unique antique pieces, and the property maintains a very peaceful ambiance to help guests relax.

The Springs Resort & Spa – One of the most notable accommodations in town because it allows direct access to the hot spring pools. There are many suites to choose from and an on-site spa for the ultimate pampering experience.

Fireside Inn Cabins –ย 15 private, two-bedroom cabins situated on the banks of the San Juan River. The property is far enough from downtown Pagosa that you can feel connected with nature, but still close enough to enjoy the local restaurants and shopping.

Healing Waters Resort – Another resort overlooking the San Juan River, this spa and hotel has three main lodging types: Standard Cottage, Queen Room with two queen beds, and a One-Bedroom Queen Suite.

Read about the best hotels in Pagosa Springs.

Dining

Pagosa Springs CO Pagosa Brewing
Beer garden at Pagosa Brewing.

Kip’s Grill – A popular Mexican restaurant, with another location in Creede.

Pagosa Brewing – Featuring a big outdoor beer garden and a full restaurant with hearty American dishes.

Riff Raff Brewing Company – When the day gives way to night, stop in for live music and a flight of locally crafted brews at this brewery. Their menu features six flagship creations including their Hopgoblin American IPA, and don’t forget to grab a growler to go.

Rosie’s Pizzeria – For an authentic experience, follow the lead of the locals and head uptown to grab a slice at this charming eatery.

Special Events

outdoor festival booths
Bands and Brews Festival, part of the annual Colorfest celebration in Pagosa Springs, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/pagosaspringschamber

May-Aug – Comfest – Head to Town Park on the third Friday of each month to catch live music performances, grab a bite from a food truck, and purchase some beer or wine to benefit a local charity.

May-Sep – East Side Market – Every summer weekend you’ll find a market of locally crafted goods and live music in downtown Pagosa Springs.

Jun – Pagosa Folk ‘n Bluegrass – Three days of bluegrass and camping in the middle of June.

Aug – Archuleta County Fair – Pagosa Springs has hosted this celebration of the county’s western heritage since 1951, held over four days in early August.

Aug-Sep – Four Corners Folk Festival – Three-day summer weekend jamming out to folk music, held in late August into early September.

Sep – Colorfest – Since 1986, the Pagosa Chamber has hosted this colorful weekend of hot air balloons, food, wine, beer, and live music throughout Pagosa Springs.

Read about the top events in Pagosa Springs.

"The Best of Colorado".
San Juan Mountains.
Boss Hogg's Saloon.
Buffalo Inn Restaurant & Bar.
Pagosa Brewing.
Pagosa Pub Works Brew Pub.
Enjoying a beer.
Entering downtown.
San Juan Street.
San Juan River and Visitor Center.
The Springs Resort.
Pagosa Springs.
Highway 160 runs through town.
Overlook Hot Springs.
Shops on San Juan Street.
Liberty Movie Theater.
Another view of San Juan Street.
Pagosa Bar.
Small Church.
Squirrel's Pub & Pantry.
Healing Waters is another hot springs resort and hotel.
Soccer field.
Farrago Market Cafe.
San Juan Historical Museum.
The Malt Shoppe.
More businesses on Highway 160.
Highway 160 and the San Juan Mountains.
Eastern entrance to town.
Another shot of downtown.
Hot springs that the town was founded for in 1874.

Activities near Pagosa Springs

Casinos:

  • Sky Ute Casino (49mi)

Colorado Brands:

  • Growing Spaces

Cross Country Skiing:

  • Pagosa Springs Nordic Club

Dog Sledding:

  • San Juan Sled Dogs

Federal Lands:

  • Chimney Rock National Monument (20mi)
  • Opal Lake (22mi)
  • Piedra River
  • Rio Grande National Forest
  • San Juan Mountains
  • San Juan National Forest
  • South San Juan Wilderness Area
  • Weminuche Wilderness Area
  • Williams Creek Reservoir (25mi)

Ghost Towns:

  • Pagosa Junction (27mi)

Hot Air Balloons:

  • Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures

Hot Springs:

  • Healing Waters Resort & Spa
  • Nathan’s Hippy Dip Hot Spring
  • Overlook Hot Springs
  • Piedra River Hot Springs (29mi)
  • Rainbow Hot Springs (25mi)
  • The Springs Resort

Ice Skating:

  • Pagosa Multi-Purpose Pavilion Ice Rink

Kayaking/River Tubing:

  • San Juan River Tubing

Museums:

  • San Juan Historical Museum

Scenic Drives:

  • Wolf Creek Pass (23mi)

Ski Areas:

  • Wolf Creek Ski Area (24mi)

Sleigh Rides:ย 

  • Astraddle A Saddle

State Parks:

  • Navajo State Park (39mi)

State Wildlife Areas:

  • Beaver Creek Reservoir SWA (45mi)
  • Big Meadows Reservoir SWA (32mi)

Towns:

  • Alamosa (89mi)
  • Arboles (34mi)
  • Bayfield (41mi)
  • Creede (63mi)
  • Del Norte (58mi)
  • Durango (60mi)
  • Ignacio (50mi)
  • Monte Vista (72mi)
  • Piedra (22mi)
  • Platoro (43mi)
  • South Fork (42mi)

Transportation:

  • Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) (56mi)

Waterfalls:

  • Treasure Falls

Whitewater Rafting:

  • Piedra River Rafting
  • San Juan River Rafting

Wildlife:

  • Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park (6mi)

Latest in Pagosa Springs

Mount Evans, Colorad

What is Colorado is known for?

Colorado is known for a lot of things, but most of the world probably thinks of…

What is Colorado is known for?Read More

Colorado Ski Resorts by Size Vail

Got Vertical? Colorado Ski Resorts by Size

Colorado’s world class ski resorts feature a myriad of skiable acres and vertical drops, all waiting…

Got Vertical? Colorado Ski Resorts by SizeRead More

Crested Butte New Years Eve, Colorado

What to do in Colorado if you don’t ski?

While Colorado is known across the world for its incredible ski resorts, not everyone who visits…

What to do in Colorado if you don’t ski?Read More

The Springs Resort, Colorado

6 Best Hot Springs by Pagosa Springs

Finding hot springs near Pagosa Springs is not difficult, as the town is home to the…

6 Best Hot Springs by Pagosa SpringsRead More

View more Pagosa Springs articles

Primary Sidebar

Join our Colorado travel community

Enter your email below and grab our free locals' guide and monthly what's up designed to help you live your Colorado life and uncover fun things to do. โ€”and never miss out again.

Archuleta County

  • All Towns
  • Archuleta County
  • Arboles
  • Pagosa Springs

Footer

Get In Touch

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Resources
  • Disclaimer
Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter

Disclosure: Uncover Colorado is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Things To Do

  • Travel Blog
  • Colorado Activities
  • Colorado Events
  • Colorado Towns
  • Colorado Hotels
  • Colorado Restaurants
  • Colorado Transportation
  • Made in Colorado

Cheers! Mile High Happy Hour shares showcases Denver neighborhoods' restaurant happy hours.

Winter Activities

  • Federal Lands
  • Ghost Towns
  • Hot Springs
  • Ice Skating
  • Ski Resorts
  • Snow Tubing
  • State Parks
  • Train Rides

Copyright © 2023 ยท Uncover Colorado | Sitemap | Advertise