Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the most unique natural gems our mountain town has to offer. Used many years ago by the native Ute tribes for healing purposes, the hot springs are now a peaceful place to rejuvenate in the Northwestern corner of the state. Did you know you can reach the pools by using the Hot Springs Trail? Opt for the more sustainable (and adventour option by hiking or biking to Strawberry park and make the soak in the springs one to remember!
[LOCAL TIP: Make Reservations]
Even when hiking or biking into the hot springs, reservations are required to soak at Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Make your reservation here.
To hike up to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, park at the Mad Creek trailhead off Route 129 heading north out of town. After parking, walk back south on the road for about a quarter of a mile. A quarter-mile can feel long when you’re excited! Start looking for a path on the left and a wide dirt road after a sign that says, “Private Property.” Take this dirt road to a junction and veer left walking northeast on the road. After 0.3 miles, there will be a wooden sign marking the start of the Hot Springs Trail.
The trail itself winds up and away into the woods, circumventing private ranches and hayfields with a mild to moderate grade. The trail begins as a single track among tall grasses, with the first half being in direct sunlight for most of the day. Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and layers to help protect yourself from the rays.
You will then reach the cooling shade of the woods and walk along a trail next to the Hot Springs Creek. While we don’t recommend taking a dip in the creek, it’s a great place to dip your toes to cool off on the hike and listen to the gurgling sounds of the water. The trail is 3 miles to the hot springs, and you’ll know you’re close when you see the iconic boulder announcing the entrance of Strawberry Park. Once you see the rustic wooden welcome signs, you’re just a few bends from entering the haven.
[LOCAL TIP: Leave the Pups at Home]
While the trails are dog-friendly, pups aren’t allowed inside Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Leave your furry friend at home for this adventure.
When you enter the park from the trail, you’ll come in between the traditional parking lot and the bathhouses. Bear left and up to check-in at the front desk. View a map of the ground here. Admission to the springs is $20 and cash only. If you didn’t bring a towel, you can rent or purchase one from here as well. You can change and fill up your water bottles in the bathhouse and then head down to enjoy the hot springs.
The various pools range in temperature from 101 to a warm 106 degrees Fahrenheit. One of the best parts about Strawberry Park Hot Springs is that you won’t encounter any of the “rotten egg” smell that may drift by at other hot springs you may have visited. Heads up for families hiking with kids: the teepee on site is certainly atmospheric, but it’s used as a changing room and not meant to play in.
Once you have had a relaxing soak, it’s time to hike back out. Remember to keep track of time! Try to avoid hiking at dusk as that is when wildlife is most active. Don’t forget to fill up your water bottle at the bathhouse before you hit the road, as it is important to hydrate after enjoying the hot springs. Happy hiking!
If there are some folks in your party who want to enjoy Strawberry Park Hot Springs but don’t want to hike, they can meet you at the springs. Make sure they have a 4WD vehicle or sign up for one of the shuttles for safe access. Whatever option you choose, you don’t want to miss out on one of the most iconic parts of Steamboat Springs.
