Entry No. 14 — the Durango file — filed under: soak
Nathan's Hippy Dip Hot Spring
“In winter, just follow the steam rising off the bank.”
On the town side of the San Juan, a hundred yards down the Riverwalk from the Hot Springs Boulevard bridge, a PVC pipe gushes 105-degree mineral water into rock-walled tubs locals stacked by hand. The runoff comes from the same geothermal source the resort across the river charges for; here it is free, year-round, and slightly scruffy. Five-odd pools run 100 to 106 degrees. In winter, just follow the steam rising off the bank.
The move: Park in the free riverfront lot off Hot Springs Boulevard, walk the Riverwalk at sunrise, and claim the hottest tub before the steam gives it away to anyone else.
📍 Before you go Park free in the public lot facing the river off Hot Springs Boulevard, then walk the Riverwalk about a hundred yards toward the bridge; the tubs sit on the bank below path level. River rocks are slick, so wear sandals you can soak in, and bring towels since the changing setup is rudimentary at best. Late-spring runoff can swamp the lower pools, making summer through winter the reliable window. Pair the soak with a stroll across the bridge through downtown Pagosa Springs.
- 📍 Pagosa Springs
- 💸 $$
- ⚡ Low-key
- 🌗 Indoor or outdoor
Where: 321 Hot Springs Blvd, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 (riverbank below the San Juan Riverwalk, near the bridge)
Hours: Added 2026-06-11 — confirm current hours before you go.
Plan a visit & invite your people →
Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3
last checked: 2026-06-11