Initial planning guide · Built from the supplied dataset. Full editorial review and venue photography are still in progress.
The experience
A place worth getting to know.
Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa is a rustic, naturally artesian hot-springs property about 5 miles outside Buena Vista at the mouth of Cottonwood Canyon. It has five hand-built soaking pools (roughly 94–110°F), a dry sauna, and a river cold plunge, backed by a lodge, cabins, and a campground. The vibe is quiet, natural, and low-key — a digital-detox style soak with views of the Collegiate Peaks.
Plan your visit
The supplied information does not list a general admission reservation requirement. Special services, capacity limits, and seasonal availability may still need advance planning.
Rustic to a fault — reviews note worn facilities, basic changing rooms, and no lockers
This is a short overview based on the initial supplied dataset. Prices, hours, access rules, and driving estimates have not been independently checked for publication. Use the practical details below as a starting point, then confirm your plans with the operator or land manager.
Good to know
The practical details.
- Admission / rates
- Listed from $45
- Hours
- Mon–Thu 8am–10pm; Fri–Sun 8am–midnight
- Reservations
- Not required; check availability
- Location
- Buena Vista
Central Rockies - Phone
- (719) 395-6434
- Website
- Official website
Rate notes: Flat rate every day: $45 adults, $35 children 12 & under; towels not included (available for purchase); overnight stays include soaking
Prices, hours, and access can change. The supplied dataset flags these details for confirmation: phone, distance from denver mi, drive time. Use the official website or call the operator for your travel date.
A closer look
Hot Springs at a glance.
- Age restrictions
- No
- On-site lodging
- Yes
The honest take
What to love. What to consider.
The highlights
- Confirmed open and operating with recent activity (2026); natural artesian gravity-fed pools in a peaceful canyon setting
- Walk-ins accepted — no reservation required, with late hours (midnight on weekends)
- Good value relative to nearby resorts: affordable lodging (lodge, cabins, campground) that includes soaking
Keep in mind
- Rustic to a fault — reviews note worn facilities, basic changing rooms, and no lockers
- Flat $45 rate is a big jump from its historic budget prices; towels cost extra
- No cell coverage from some carriers (T-Mobile reported none); quiet rules may not suit party groups
Getting there
From Denver to Buena Vista.
Approximate distance
Estimated drive
Drive times are planning estimates. Weather, mountain roads, traffic, and seasonal closures can change your route. Check the operator’s directions before leaving.
Get directions from DenverLocations are planning references. Open a pin to read the guide.
Plan your visit
Make the most of your visit.
Bring your own towel — they are not included with the soaking pass
Swimsuits required at all times; alcohol, smoking, glass, and dogs are not allowed in the pool area
Campers: tent sites include hot-springs access; the gravel lot sits close to the road, so expect some road noise
Your questions
Before you head out.
Is Cottonwood Hot Springs still open?
Yes — it is active and operating year-round, with an updated website and 2026 rates posted.
Do I need a reservation?
No — walk-ins are always accepted for soaking passes; online reservations are available for convenience.
Is there lodging on site?
Yes — a cozy lodge, creekside cabins, and a campground with tent/RV sites; overnight stays include hot-springs access.