Pagosa Springs, Colorado

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 Mesa 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

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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 – 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.