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Hike to the Piedra River Hot Springs

Archuleta County, Colorado

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

3 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

Soak in natural hot springs, tucked away in the San Juan National Forest.

About a 45 minute drive east of Durango, sits the trailhead for the Piedra River Hot Springs. This free use, natural hot spring on the Piedra River has several 100 degree pools. The springs are accessible via a 3 mile roundtrip hike, often with wildlife sightings along the way. The hike to the hot springs is downhill, so remember, you'll have a little work to do on the way back out. 

Please be respectful when visiting these hot springs. Remember to leave no trace and bring an extra trash bag to pack out any trash less responsible parties may have left behind. 

If you're feeling thirsty and want to support the area, stop by Riff Raff Brewing post hike and soak for a beer and a bite!

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Features

Chillin
Swimming
Hiking
Forest
Hot Springs
River
Romantic
Scenic

Hike to the Piedra River Hot Springs Reviews

Trail starts at Sheep’s Creek and will take about an hour & a half one way (downhill!) Stay to the right of the main path the whole way until you reach the rocky beach area. My 11, 9, 7 & 4 year olds did it. They were tired afterwards but had a blast and all 4 said the hike back up was worth it.

explored this in late august when the river was so low. had to lay down in the pools to feel submerged.only person on the trail that day with a few monsoon showers for a weather break.

Great little hike down. When reaching bottom stay right to make it to the falls. You will see a three tiered fire pit and directly down to the river there are several natural hot springs! Please be kool and pack out your trash. This little treasure deserves some respect! Enjoy

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Cross country Ski around Vallecito Lake

Hike the Weminuche Wilderness to Fourmile Falls

Hike the First Fork/Red Creek Loop

Soak at Pinkerton Hot Spring

Drive the San Juan Skyway from Durango to Ouray

Trimble Hot Springs