Looking for a place to soak those aching muscles and tired bones in nothing but your birthday suit? If so, you may want to visit the Orvis Hot Springs Resort.
By soaking in this clothing-optional spring, you can detox your skin and help fight psoriasis, acne, and eczema. However, you’ll find more than just tubs for soaking here. It’s so much more than that.
So is the more than 100-year-old Orvis Hot Springs for you? Let’s dive in and see.
What Are Hot Springs?
Hot springs are geothermally heated groundwater that emerges from the Earth’s crust. While some hot springs are cool enough for bathing, not all of them are safe. These pools of water can reach boiling in areas with volcanic activity.
People have used natural hot springs for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. Many believed these magical pools could help cure arthritis, polio, and other ailments. Celebrities and other high-class folks would show off their affluence by soaking in the springs.
Do You Wear Anything in Hot Springs?
The requirements for clothing vary from one spring to the next. Some have strict guidelines that state you must always wear clothing.
However, you can visit some clothing-optional hot springs, such as the Orvis Hot Springs in Colorado. How much or little you wear is up to you.
Due to the varying comfort levels, it’s a good idea to scout out the requirements for each spring. You don’t want to arrive and discover that it doesn’t meet your clothing preferences.
Traveler’s Tip: Not shy? You might also be interested in experiencing the clothing-optional Orr Hot Springs in California.
Where Is Orvis Hot Springs?
Orvis Hot Springs is in Ridgway, Colo., between the cities of Ouray and Montrose. The springs sit right off Highway 550, and you can easily access them most of the year.
However, during the winter, you’ll want to check the road conditions for road closures. The elevation for this area is over 10,000 feet above sea level, which means it often has a blanket of snow in the winter.
How Many Pools Can You Go in at Orvis Hot Springs?
Orvis Hot Springs has seven outdoor pools and three indoor ones. The pools range in size, with “The Pond” being the largest at 40 feet wide and five feet deep. It is the largest and provides a beautiful view of Mount Sneffels.
“Island Pond” is another fantastic option for soaking. Plus, you can enjoy the views and sounds of the waterfall feature. The pool is fed by 127-degree crater water.
The “Smoker’s Pond” measures 8 feet round, and temperatures climb to 103 to 107 degrees. And you can smoke at this pool. However, smoking cannabis is illegal.
If you want to push your comfort limits and dip in the hottest pool, try the “Lobster Pot.” The temperatures in this pool reach 108 to 114 degrees. However, this pool offers a privacy fence and is the most consistent in terms of temperature. A patio and pathways make it easy to transition back and forth between the Lobster Pot, Sauna, and cold plunge.
The Cold Plunge is a chilly 62 degrees. Taking a dip in this pool can help improve lung function, help with depression, and increase your immunity. It may be uncomfortable, but the health benefits may make it worthwhile.
The newest addition to Orvis Hot Springs is the Watsu Pool. This pool blends water and shiatsu in a gentle therapy. One unique factor about this pool is that it is a silent area. So if you’re looking for a relaxing and quiet time, this is the pool for you.
The springs also offer an indoor pool and two indoor tubs. The pool stays at 98 degrees, and the two tubs range from 102 to 110. The resort drains and cleans the two tubs every morning.
Is Orvis Hot Springs Clothing Optional?
The outdoor soaking areas at Orvis Hot Springs are clothing optional. Guests using these areas can use them with or without clothing.
But you have no obligation to disrobe. Guests must wear towels in the hallways of the main building, and bathing suits are required from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the indoor pool.
What Are the Orvis Hot Springs’ Temperatures?
Temperatures at Orvis Hot Springs range from 98 degrees in the indoor pool to 114 degrees in the Lobster Pot. However, the springs also offer a cold plunge, which sits at 62 degrees.
Rotating between the warm and cool pools can feel refreshing and rejuvenating. The warm temperatures and natural minerals can ease tense muscles, relieve aches, and reduce stress.
Does Orvis Hot Springs Have Showers?
Yes, the resort does offer showers. However, expect long lines if taking a dip during one of the peak times. The bathrooms often disappoint guests, especially considering the luxurious feel of the rest of the well-manicured grounds.
Are Orvis Hot Springs Worth Visiting?
We’ve all had those long weeks where you need to get away from it all and relax. Visiting Orvis Hot Springs is a great way to do just that. Treat yourself or a loved one to a restful experience in naturally heated pools.
You can also camp in a tent or RV on the property. Or you can book a stay in one of the beautiful rooms in the lodge. When you stay at the resort, you get soaking included.
We think you should visit Orvis Hot Springs to relax and enjoy a peaceful and tranquil weekend. You’ll leave refreshed and ready to tackle whatever the next week throws at you.
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