Hot Sulphur Springs, CO

Things to Do in Hot Sulphur Springs

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat during your winter ski vacation or summer mountain-biking adventure, Hot Sulphur Springs is the place to rest and relax. Home to the mineral-rich pools at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort and Spa, rich historical spots and stunning outdoor spaces, this charming mountain town is a must-visit.

Outdoor Activities

As Grand County's county seat, the quaint town of Hot Sulphur Springs has played an important role in the history of the area. The town was named for the natural hot springs that line the canyon along this stretch of the upper Colorado River, first visited by passing Ute and Arapaho hunting parties who called the area "big medicine."

Today, you can still enjoy a spa experience in the healing waters of Hot Sulphur Springs. The aptly named Hot Sulphur Springs Resort boasts 22 pools and private baths, plus a full suite of day-spa services. Heal your mind, body and spirit in the soothing water whether it’s a warm summer day or a cold winter evening. But if you visit at night, be sure to direct your gaze upward to the starry skies that are especially breathtaking at Grand County’s high elevation.

Pioneer Park is a year-round playground in town. Along the rushing Colorado River, this 80-acre park is ideal for fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. Enjoy the free 18-hole disc-golf course, offering a mix of narrow fairways and open drives. The park’s campground provides 14 first-come, first-served RV and tent sites with campfire areas, perfect for marshmallow toasting. In winter, the park becomes a snowy wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Events

The Hot Sulphur Days celebration is one of the longest-running events in Grand County, taking place each June. Participate in the pie-baking contest, community barbecues, live-music performances, dazzling fireworks and a 6K trail run. Check out the annual botany walk, where you can learn all about the region’s flora along tree-lined trails at Parshall Divide. Bring the kids for the free carnival with games, bouncy houses, contests and prizes. And catch some candy tossed by cowpokes on horses and local organizations during the big town parade.

Shopping

When you visit Grand County, one of the must-stop spots is the Pioneer Village Museum. Here, you can learn about the Native tribes that lived in the region and the early pioneers that arrived in the late 19th century, traversing rugged terrain over what is now Berthoud Pass. After exploring the exhibits, browse the shop in the museum for books, postcards and other collectables.

Thrifters looking for their next great find will want to check out the Jackpot Resale Shop, which has everything from clothes and outdoor gear to Western accessories and antiques (and all at great prices). The Hot Sulphur Mini Merc is a convenient stop for snacks, clothes and fresh deli sandwiches. And Canyon Liquors and Gifts has lots of Colorado-themed souvenirs like mugs, keychains and ornaments, as well as specialty items like soaps, ceramics and old-fashioned candy.

Dining

Step back in time at Dean Public House, originally built in 1873 by Captain Thomas J. Dean, a Civil War veteran who turned his two-room log cabin into the town's first saloon. Guests can still feel the rustic charm in this space that once hosted whiskey-drinking patrons and overnight guests around a pot-bellied stove. Menu highlights include the savory house-smoked pork ribs, glazed with sweet barbecue sauce and paired with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Complement your meal with the Old Timer cocktail, a refreshing mix of vodka, blueberry thyme shrub, lemon and honey.

Visit Hot Sulphur Springs Chamber of Commerce