Soaking at Iron Mountain Hot Springs

You might recall: I used to write about hot springs for a living. And I blogged about them for fun, too. My “hot springs series” was born from a desire to explore Colorado’s impressive spread of naturally occurring geothermal waters.

Years have passed and miles have been moved and sadly, my hot springs soaks these days are few and far in between. However, during this summer’s trek back to Colorado, I made it a priority to seek out one of my old favorite Glenwood Springs haunts. Enter: a much needed visit to (and reunion with) Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

Located on the banks of the Colorado River, Iron Mountain Hot Springs offers a scenic and unique soaking experience, involving a range of smaller-sized pools to enjoy. With mountain views, naturally heated mineral waters, incredible upgrades to the space and experience, and dozens of pools to explore, it’s easy to see why this destination has become a Colorado travel bucket list item.

In the handful of years since my last visit, Iron Mountain has massively expanded. The already-beautiful site has grown and evolved, with more pools, saunas, cold plunges, and upgrades. It’s a beautiful and serene experience, and I’ve never had a soaking experience quite like it.

Here’s how my recent visit to Iron Mountain Hot Springs went.

About Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Located in the heart of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, Iron Mountain Hot Springs opened in 2015 on the historic site of the former Iron Springs Spa. Today, the property features original geothermal hot springs, family-friendly soaking areas, and an adults-only section inspired by famous hot springs from around the world.

The property sits directly alongside the Colorado River, which creates a stunning backdrop for a day of relaxation, especially with the city’s signature red-hued mountains in the distance. It’s one of several facilities featured on the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop.

It’s an upscale facility that emphasizes serenity, rejuvenation, and an adult-friendly atmosphere. Many visitors consider it a quieter alternative to the larger hot springs pool in town.

The layout

Iron Mountain Hot Springs can be divided into two main sections: the general admission (Select Access), and the adults-only WorldSprings and Sauna Summit section (Premier Access).

Rather than one giant pool, the Iron Mountain features numerous smaller soaking pools arranged along the riverfront. The result feels more intimate and relaxing, allowing guests to move between different temperatures and mineral compositions throughout their visit.

The pools are connected by heated walkways, making it easy to explore even during Colorado’s colder months. Throughout the property, there are lounge chairs, shaded areas, beverage service, complimentary locker rooms, and plenty of spaces to sit and enjoy the surrounding views.

The entire experience feels thoughtfully designed, with each area offering a slightly different atmosphere.

Select Access admission

The Select Access pass includes access to Iron Mountain’s 16 original geothermal soaking pools, the large family mineral pool, a jetted spa, and a cold plunge.

There are 16 geothermal mineral pools ranging from approximately 89 to 108 degrees, each with slightly different temperatures and mineral profiles. The geothermal spring pools are fed directly from deep underground mineral sources that are naturally heated by the earth—the same that the city of Glenwood Springs is named for. These underground hot springs continuously flow to the surface without chlorine, additives, or chemical treatment.

This collection of  smaller pools create a quiet environment where guests can move around until they find their perfect soaking temperature.

For families, the large mineral pool offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the water together. Unlike the smaller soaking pools, this area is designed for all ages and provides a more traditional hot springs experience—perfect for splashing and playing.

Premier Access admission

For adults looking for a more elevated experience, the Premier Access ticket upgrade unlocks the WorldSprings section.

This adults-only (21+) area features 12 mineral pools inspired by famous hot springs around the globe. Guests can soak in waters modeled after destinations such as Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, the Dead Sea, and other renowned wellness destinations.

Premier Access (21+) also includes entry to The Sauna Summit, a collection of five unique saunas, a specialized plunge, and additional relaxation areas. In the WorldSprings area, guests receive complimentary towels and access to enhanced amenities throughout the section, including QR drink ordering and delivery right to your soaking pool.

The atmosphere in WorldSprings is incredibly tranquil. If you’re visiting as a couple or planning a girls’ getaway, the upgrade is worth considering. The tickets are also priced differently for 3-hour soaks, all day (with reentry), and night-time (8-10 p.m.) passes, with variation for weekday and weekend visits.

Our visit

During this visit to Iron Mountain Hot Springs, I brought my parents along! It was special to share this experience with them, as we’ve come together over the years and have seen the many Iron Mountain forms since 2017.

It was so much fun to experience Premier Access and enjoy all of the perks, from a less busy atmosphere to unique pools (the Blue Lagoon was a favorite), to having delicious cocktails and mocktails available for delivery. My parents both tried the saunas, and I loved sticking around the Potassium waters while I waited. All of the details were intentional and special, and the upgrade is obvious.

There is something incredible about soaking in geothermal waters, feeling the healing benefits in real time, and sharing the experience with loved ones. It was an amazing experience from start to finish, and I’m thankful that my parents were along for the ride.

Quick details

Website: www.ironmountainhotsprings.com
Location: 281 Centennial Street, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (special hours may vary)
Pricing: Select Access typically ranges from $50-$75 per person. Premier Access (21+) ranges from approximately $75-$125 per person depending on date and time. Online reservations are discounted compared to walk-up pricing
Parking: Complimentary on-site parking lot available for guests
Amenities: Complimentary towels, free lockers, on-site dining, beverage service, riverfront seating, family-friendly pools, adult-only pools, cold plunges, and saunas

Good to know: Guests under 21 cannot access the WorldSprings pools or Sauna Summit. Reservations are highly recommended year-round. Children under 5 are restricted from the geothermal soaking pools but may use designated family areas

Best Time to visit: Year-round! There are hot springs of varying temperatures, and hot springs can feel either refreshing on a warm day or very necessary on a chilly one

Ready to soak?

Reserve your soak with Iron Mountain Hot Springs for your next Glenwood Springs adventure.

When you go, be sure to tell them Sunshine with Savannah sent you!

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