Dog-Friendly Hot Springs in Colorado
A practical guide to which Colorado hot springs actually welcome dogs — and which ones don't, with honest notes on each option and what to expect when you bring your dog along.
The Short Answer
Most Colorado hot springs don’t allow dogs. The ones that do range from primitive riverside spots to well-run small resorts, and knowing the difference before you drive 3 hours saves everyone frustration.
Here’s the honest rundown.
Springs Where Dogs Are Genuinely Welcome
Radium Hot Springs — 2 hours from Denver
Free, primitive, BLM land. No facilities, no rules beyond “leave no trace.” Dogs are welcome and this is probably the most dog-friendly hot spring in Colorado by default — you’re on public land, you have the river bank to yourselves, and there’s nobody to tell you otherwise.
The practical note: you’re in a natural pool formed where geothermal water meets the Colorado River. Keep your dog on leash near the riverbank and be aware of current conditions. This isn’t a fenced facility.
Dog situation: Entirely dog-friendly. One of the best spots to bring a water-loving dog.
Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs — 3 hours from Denver
One of the only properly managed hot spring facilities in Colorado that genuinely welcomes dogs. Leash required. Dogs are allowed at the pools. The staff is used to it; other guests are used to it. The Crystal River valley setting is excellent for a dog day out regardless.
Reservations required — book in advance, especially if you want a weekend spot.
Dog situation: Leash required; otherwise fully welcome. Probably the best dog-friendly hot spring facility in the state.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs — 3 hours from Denver
Dogs are allowed during daytime hours (when the spring is swimsuit-required). After dark, when the spring goes clothing-optional and adults-only, dogs are not permitted.
This is a good option if you’re coming for a daytime soak: bring the dog, stay for the afternoon, head out before the evening shift. Book early — Strawberry Park is popular and weekends fill up fast.
Dog situation: Daytime only. Confirm current policy when booking, as it has changed periodically.
Springs That Don’t Allow Dogs
The majority of Colorado hot springs do not allow dogs in pool areas. Here’s where the major ones stand:
| Spring | Dogs Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mt. Princeton | No | Dogs allowed on property trails but not near pools |
| Glenwood Hot Springs Pool | No | Full facility; no pets |
| Iron Mountain Hot Springs | No | No pets allowed |
| Cottonwood Hot Springs | No | Adults-only, no dogs |
| Valley View Hot Springs | No | Conservation property; no pets |
| Orvis Hot Springs | No | No dogs |
| Hot Sulphur Springs | No | No dogs |
| Indian Hot Springs | No | No dogs |
| Joyful Journey Hot Springs | No | No dogs |
| The Springs Resort (Pagosa) | No | No dogs |
| Dunton Hot Springs | No | Private resort; no pets |
| Trimble Spa | No | No dogs |
What to Do With Your Dog at Non-Dog Springs
If you’re traveling with a dog and want to visit a spring that doesn’t allow dogs, the practical solution is to bring a second person. One person soaks while the other hangs out with the dog nearby. Most hot spring locations have nearby trails, rivers, or open areas where a dog and a human can have a good time for an hour or two.
Specific options:
- Mt. Princeton: The Chalk Creek area below the resort has riverbank access and trails where dogs are welcome. Someone soaks, someone walks the dog along the creek.
- Glenwood Springs: Doc Holliday Trail and the Roaring Fork River Trail are both close to Glenwood Pool and allow dogs.
- Steamboat Springs / Strawberry Park: Lots of trail access from Steamboat proper if you need to burn time.
Planning Notes
Verify before you drive. Dog policies at hot springs are more variable than any other policy — they change based on season, incidents, or ownership changes. Always call or check the website before you make a long drive with a dog.
Hot pavement and pool decks. Pool decks in summer can be hot enough to burn paws. Bring water for your dog regardless of whether they’re allowed at the pools.
Don’t leave dogs in cars. Mountain weather in Colorado is unpredictable, and cars in direct sun at elevation heat quickly. If your dog can’t come with you to the pool, make a plan before you go — not in the parking lot.
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