Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Colorado

Colorado’s iconic “mountain hot spring” near Steamboat Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the best-known natural hot springs in Colorado, tucked into the Routt National Forest outside Steamboat Springs. Instead of a giant resort pool, you’ll find a series of hand-built, stone-lined soaking pools terraced along Hot Springs Creek - hot at the top, cooler as the water cascades downhill - so you can pick your perfect temperature and rotate as you soak.

Rustic, off-grid vibe (in the best way)
This is a back-to-nature hot-springs experience with simple amenities (changing cabin, restrooms, and optional massage services), a starry-sky atmosphere at night, and a setting that feels worlds away from town—while still being close enough for an easy half-day trip from Steamboat.

A famous twist: adults-only, clothing-optional evenings
One of Strawberry Park’s most searched-for details is its evening policy: after dark, the pools become 18+ and clothing optional. If you’re planning a family visit, aim for daytime hours.

Where it is
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is located at 44200 County Road 36, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, roughly 15 minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs depending on conditions.

By car (most common)
You’ll drive up County Road 36 to the hot springs. The final stretch is known for being narrow, winding, and seasonally rough - beautiful, but not a “city sedan” kind of road in winter.

Winter driving requirement (important)
From Nov 1 to May 1, Routt County requires 4WD plus snow tires and/or chains to access the hot springs road. If you don’t have the right vehicle setup (or you just don’t want the stress), use a shuttle partner.

Shuttles (recommended in snow season)
Shuttle services operate from Steamboat Springs and are strongly recommended during storms, icy nights, and peak winter weekends.

Know before you go

• Reservations: Pool reservations are used/required at many times - book ahead.
• Payment: Cash only (no credit cards/checks).
• Rideshare note: The property states no Uber/Lyft passengers allowed entry.

Best for

• Couples & friend groups who want a scenic, natural hot-springs soak near Steamboat (especially evenings)
• Ski trips (classic pairing: Steamboat ski day + hot-springs soak)
• Wellness travelers who prefer “rustic natural pools” over a full-service spa resort

Families
Strawberry Park can be family friendly during daytime hours, and the pool temps/variety make it doable for many groups - but plan carefully:

• After dark, it’s 18+ and clothing optional, so families should go earlier.
• Young children have specific requirements (e.g., swim diapers under age 3).

Wheelchair / mobility accessibility
This is not a reliably wheelchair-accessible hot spring: the site is rustic with uneven ground and steps/grade changes. If you have mobility needs, call ahead and consider alternative Colorado hot springs with strong ADA features.

Soak smart (hot water + cold mountain air)
Even though this is a managed facility, it’s still a natural setting with real risks:

• Limit soak time, rotate between pools, and cool down in fresh air.
• Hydrate—hot water dehydrates faster than you think (especially in winter).
• If you’re pregnant or have heart/blood-pressure concerns, follow medical guidance before soaking.

Slips, ice, and the access road

• The property warns about slippery surfaces - move slowly, use handrails, and wear footwear with traction.
• In winter, the road is often the biggest hazard. If you’re unsure, take a shuttle.

Etiquette (what makes Strawberry Park enjoyable)

• Keep voices low - this is a “quiet soak” vibe compared to big water-park style pools.
• Respect personal space in smaller pools; rotate rather than crowding.
• After dark: remember it’s adults-only and clothing optional - be respectful, no photos, and keep the atmosphere comfortable for everyone.
• No dogs on the property (and don’t leave them in vehicles).

Is Strawberry Park Hot Springs clothing optional?
Yes - after dark it becomes clothing optional and 18+ only. During the day, standard swimwear is typical.

Can I bring kids to Strawberry Park Hot Springs?
Kids are welcome during daytime hours, but no one under 18 is allowed after dark. Children under 3 must use a swim diaper.

Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are commonly required/used - check the official reservation page and book ahead, especially for weekends and winter.

Is it hard to get there in winter?
It can be. From Nov 1–May 1, the county requires 4WD with snow tires and/or chains on the access road. Many visitors use a shuttle in winter conditions.

Do they take credit cards?
No - Strawberry Park Hot Springs is cash only.

Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed anywhere on the property, and leaving them in vehicles is prohibited.