Quick FactsOverview
About Antero Hot Springs Cabins
Antero Hot Springs Cabins, Colorado is a private resort in Nathrop with three historic log cabins along Chalk Creek in San Isabel National Forest, each with its own hand-shaped outdoor soaking pool fed by a geothermal spring. The water is mineral-rich and low in sulfur, so the pools stay clear and essentially odor-free. The property sits between Mount Antero and Mount Princeton with 1,500-foot chalk cliffs rising above the soaking pools and Chalk Creek flowing past the edge of the property. Access is by overnight reservation only.
The three cabins are Cottonwood, Hortense, and Chalk Cliffs Chalet. Cottonwood is a restored century-old log cabin with two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a hand-built quartz fireplace. Hortense is a three-bedroom cabin close to Chalk Creek. Chalk Cliffs Chalet, renovated in 2024, is a two-story property with five queen beds and a pool at the base of the cliffs. Each cabin's pool is drained, cleaned, and refilled before each new guest arrives.
The property is among the best-known private hot spring resorts near Buena Vista, Colorado and books six to eight months ahead for peak periods. The setting within San Isabel National Forest gives guests direct access to fishing, hiking, and proximity to St. Elmo ghost town and several Fourteeners.
Location & Access
Getting to Antero Hot Springs Cabins
Antero Hot Springs Cabins is at 16120 County Road 162, Nathrop, CO 81236, reached via paved county roads. From Buena Vista the drive takes approximately 15 minutes; from Salida about 20 minutes; from Denver or Colorado Springs roughly two and a half hours via US-24 west and US-285 south to Nathrop, then right onto County Road 162 for 4.6 miles.
The road is paved throughout and navigable in a standard vehicle in normal conditions. In winter and early spring, snow and ice can affect travel times; checking road conditions before departing is advisable. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is on the same road, so confirm you are turning into the correct property. Because Antero operates as a cabin rental rather than a day-use facility, all visits require an active reservation.
There is no public transit access to the property. A personal vehicle is required. Parking is available on site at each cabin. Cell service is limited or absent at the property for some networks. The private soaking pools are directly adjacent to each cabin, so no hike is needed once you have checked in. For visitors looking for a hot spring resort near Buena Vista with true seclusion, the location along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway is a significant part of the draw.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Antero Hot Springs Cabins Suits
Antero Hot Springs Cabins suits couples, small adult groups, and families who want a private hot spring experience in a historic mountain setting near Buena Vista. Because each cabin has its own pool, the experience is inherently secluded, and clothing is optional given the private nature of the tubs. Cottonwood and Hortense cabins lack WiFi and television by design, appealing to guests who want to fully disconnect. Chalk Cliffs Chalet includes WiFi and a larger social layout for groups of up to ten people.
The property is accessible by paved road and requires no hiking to reach the pools, making it practical for those who want a backcountry feel without backcountry logistics. Wheelchair accessibility is not documented; guests with mobility requirements should contact the property directly before booking, as the cabins are historic with uneven outdoor surfaces. For visitors looking for natural hot springs in Colorado with complete privacy, this property stands apart from shared-pool facilities in the area.
Availability is extremely limited given only three rentable units, and reservations fill months in advance. Guests who prioritize a quiet, nature-focused stay with minimal amenities will find the experience well matched to that preference. Those expecting resort-level service, air conditioning, or entertainment infrastructure should review cabin descriptions carefully before booking, as the rustic character is intentional and part of the appeal.
Safety & Etiquette
Antero Hot Springs Cabins Safety Tips
Antero Hot Springs Cabins is generally safe for soaking, though the water temperature requires attention. The pools run between 100 and 112 degrees Fahrenheit, and each pool has a cold-water valve for temperature moderation. Entering water above 104 degrees Fahrenheit can raise core body temperature quickly, so testing the water and adjusting via the cold valve is recommended before each soak, especially for first-time visitors.
People with cardiovascular conditions, high or low blood pressure, pregnancy, or other medical conditions should consult a physician before using high-temperature pools. The water is not treated with chlorine; hygiene depends on the drain-and-refill process performed between bookings. Showering before entering the pool helps maintain water quality for your own stay.
The property is in San Isabel National Forest at elevation. Weather can change rapidly in the Collegiate Peaks; temperatures that feel warm at midday can drop sharply after sunset. Bring a warm layer for moving between the pool and the cabin at night. Wildlife including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats is frequently seen on the property; keep food secured and do not approach animals.
Road conditions on County Road 162 can be affected by snow and ice in winter and spring. A standard vehicle handles the paved road in normal conditions, but allow extra time in shoulder seasons. Cell coverage is limited on the property; inform someone of your plans before arrival. In an emergency, a landline phone is available in the cabins. The nearest services are in Buena Vista, approximately 15 minutes away.
