Penny Hot Springs
A free, natural hot spring oasis along the Crystal River, offering a rustic soak with stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak
Penny Hot Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful soak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, natural hot spring oasis along the Crystal River, offering a rustic soak with stunning mountain views.
"Beautiful hot spring 30 minutes from Glenwood Springs and 30 minutes from Aspen."
🚗 Parking & Access
Park responsibly and be mindful of the steep, unconstructed paths leading down to the springs.
💧 Test Water Temp
The water directly from the source is scalding hot! Test carefully before entering.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Hot Pools
Along the Crystal River
Naturally heated mineral pools carved into rocks, offering a unique, free soak with river views.
Crystal River Cold Plunge
Across from the hot springs
Take a refreshing dip in the icy Crystal River to contrast the hot spring's warmth.
Scenic Riverside Setting
Along the Crystal River
Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery and the soothing sounds of the river while you relax.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Vibe
Timing is Key for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Park responsibly and be mindful of the steep, unconstructed paths leading down to the springs.
💧 Test Water Temp
The water directly from the source is scalding hot! Test carefully before entering.
🧼 Post-Soak Rinse
To avoid smelling like sulfur, rinse off in the Crystal River after your soak.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
This is a natural area with no facilities. Please take all your trash with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Park responsibly and be mindful of the steep, unconstructed paths leading down to the springs.
💧 Test Water Temp
The water directly from the source is scalding hot! Test carefully before entering.
🧼 Post-Soak Rinse
To avoid smelling like sulfur, rinse off in the Crystal River after your soak.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
This is a natural area with no facilities. Please take all your trash with you.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Wear appropriate shoes for navigating the potentially uneven terrain.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy this natural wonder without any admission fees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Penny Hot Springs for its beautiful, natural setting and the unique experience of soaking in naturally heated pools by the Crystal River. The free access and the option for a cold plunge are major highlights. However, some find it too crowded, and concerns about other visitors' behavior and the extreme heat of the water have been noted.
"Beautiful hot spring 30 minutes from Glenwood Springs and 30 minutes from Aspen. You can cold plunge on the Colorado river on the other side. There are no bathrooms on site but I love this place. It’s super relaxing and the water is really very hot."
aL dA
"It was beautiful but way too crowded and some lady was topless, I was with my kids 7-14, I feel like at some point you have to have some consideration for a public space. Not cool"
Jorge Aguilar
"This place was about 30 minutes from our hotel in Glenwood Springs so we had to stop - had a group of adults and kids and went in the afternoon. Was an incredible experience unfortunately because I can see this being ruined if becoming too popular 😂 Only insight is be careful of the hot spring water coming directly from the earth - it is scalding hot! Also you WILL stink like sulfur after being in the water if you don’t get in the river after to sort of clean off! I could’ve spent all day here :)"
Katie Keil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Penny Hot Springs is located about 30 minutes south of Glenwood Springs, near Redstone, Colorado. You'll typically drive along Highway 133. Keep an eye out for signs or pull-offs along the Crystal River.
Parking is usually roadside and can be limited, especially during busy times. Be prepared to park safely and responsibly.
Public transportation options are very limited for this natural, roadside attraction. It's best accessed by private vehicle.
The drive itself is scenic, following the Crystal River. Be aware that the roads can be winding, and conditions might vary depending on the season.
Yes, Penny Hot Springs is about a 30-40 minute drive from Aspen, making it a perfect addition to a day trip or a stop on your way to or from Aspen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Penny Hot Springs is completely free to enjoy! It's a natural, undeveloped hot spring, so there are no admission fees.
As a natural attraction, Penny Hot Springs does not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit anytime, but early mornings and late nights are recommended for fewer crowds.
No reservations are needed for Penny Hot Springs as it's a free, public access area. However, it can get crowded, so arriving early or late is advised.
Yes, Penny Hot Springs is generally accessible year-round. However, winter conditions might make access more challenging, and the river can be very cold for plunging.
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, water shoes for the rocky riverbed, and plenty of water. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water temperature can vary significantly. Directly from the source, it can be scalding hot (up to 130°F), while the pools closer to the river are cooler. Always test the water before entering.
No, there are no facilities like restrooms or changing rooms at Penny Hot Springs. It's a natural, undeveloped site, so plan accordingly.
While children can enjoy the springs, adult supervision is crucial due to the extremely hot water and the river's currents. Be mindful of other visitors' comfort levels.
Many visitors enjoy alternating between the hot springs and a cold plunge in the Crystal River for a revitalizing experience.
Be cautious of the extremely hot water, the steep paths, and the river's currents. Always supervise children closely. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise or sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Early mornings can also provide misty, atmospheric shots as steam rises from the water.
A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to get close to the water.
There are no specific restrictions on photography, but always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
The pools themselves, the steam rising from the water, the confluence of the hot springs and the Crystal River, and the surrounding mountain landscape are all great photo opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in this area to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
This natural wonder offers a high-value experience without any cost for admission or reservations. The main expenses will be transportation to the location and any snacks or drinks you bring. It's an excellent way to enjoy Colorado's natural beauty without breaking the bank. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The undeveloped nature of the springs means you're experiencing them in their most natural state. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this beautiful spot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Appeal of Penny Hot Springs
The setting itself is a major draw. Nestled beside the flowing Crystal River, the hot springs provide a stunning backdrop of the Colorado mountains. Many visitors enjoy the invigorating experience of alternating between the warm pools and a quick, cold plunge in the river, a practice known as contrast therapy. This natural spa experience is completely free, making it an accessible adventure for many travelers.
However, the undeveloped nature means there are no amenities. Visitors should be prepared for a lack of restrooms, changing facilities, and paved paths. The emphasis is on respecting the natural environment and leaving no trace. The popularity of Penny Hot Springs has grown, so managing expectations regarding crowds, especially during peak times, is important for a positive visit.
Navigating the Experience: Tips from Visitors
Crowd management is a recurring theme. While the springs are free and open to all, they can become quite busy, particularly in the afternoons and on weekends. To enjoy a more tranquil soak, visitors consistently recommend arriving very early in the morning or later in the evening.
+1Practical advice also includes being mindful of the terrain. The paths leading down to the springs can be steep and uneven, so wearing sturdy footwear is recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit