Pagosa Springs is an increasingly popular getaway with natural amenities. From river domes to chic tiny homes, new lodging options appeal to every kind of traveler.
“During the pandemic, we lost inventory allocated towards workforce housing and saw increased visitation,” said Jennifer Green, executive director of Visit Pagosa Springs. “Businesses saw an opportunity to provide new, unique lodging accommodations to meet the needs of a variety of travelers.”
Just under a six-hour drive southwest of Denver, Pagosa Springs is home to about 1,600 people. Forests and wilderness surround this small town, and 2.5 million acres of the San Juan National Forest are nearby.
The San Juan River flows through downtown’s heart and just past what is believed to be the world’s deepest geothermal hot springs aquifer.
In the winter, Pagosa Springs is popular with skiers who visit the nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area; in summer, it’s time for whitewater rafting, tubing, hiking and fishing. Year-round, people stop here to soak in the hot springs.
Steam rises from the springs along the San Juan River near the Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs on July 12, 2017. Denver Post File Photo
Many properties in Pagosa Springs are situated for the best vantage point to the San Juan River – whether that means easy access, views, or ambiance.
Pagosa River Domes is a new development right on the water. The name says it all: 14 individual insulated geodesic domes offering year-round glamping vibes and comfort.
The side of the dome facing the river is clear (with curtains for privacy), so you can put your feet up on the deck and relax. It’s a short drive into town from this lodging choice.
The domes were a new project after the owners of the historic Nightingale Motel renovated it with a modern mountain aesthetic in its 17 guest rooms and cocktail lounge. This motel is within walking distance of many of Pagosa Springs’ favorite amenities.
High Creek Lodge & Cabins is the reborn High Country Lodge, just outside of town. It offers a more remote feeling in the mountains and easy access to local hiking trails. This two-story building offers standard guest rooms, larger suites with separate living and sleeping spaces, and individual cabins.
For those who want to try out a tiny home, The Drift has 13 little spaces that give you your own home away from home. A shared courtyard is available for travelers who want to make new friends here, and the lack of shared walls gives guests a feeling of their own space.
This place was designed by local architects and is locally owned. It is within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and, of course, hot springs.
The geothermal pools at The Springs Resort & Spa at 323 Hot Springs Blvd in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The hot springs are found on the banks of the San Juan River in mineral-rich, geothermal pools. The resort says on it’s website that the pools contain 13 minerals in their waters that include Potassium, magnesium, zinc, lithium, iron and manganese, that help to promote healthy skin, lower blood pressure, strengthen bones and muscles and increase energy. (Photo courtesy of The Springs Resort & Spa)
Many people come to Pagosa Springs to soak, and the Springs Resort offers a variety of soaking options (including a cold plunge right into the river!). Spa treatments, dining options, and benefits for being an overnight guest are also available. Those benefits include a Deep Sleep Tray with items to help you snooze deeply and 24/7 access to soaking pools.
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With all these new lodging options in 2024, it’s hard to believe that 2025 will welcome even more choices for this small town when The Springs Resort expansion opens. They are adding 78 new guest rooms, 27 soaking pools and water features, and a new restaurant here.
You don’t have to be an overnight guest at The Spring Resort to soak, so grab a day pass and head over from wherever you lay your head.
During your stay, stroll the town’s new Sculpture Park, which opens in June. You’ll see murals and sculptures by talented local artists who were commissioned to create pieces that tell stories about the people of this place.