Valley View Hot Springs - Updated 2024 Guide
I visited Valley View Hot Springs in Colorado is one of my favorite Colorado hot springs. It's part of a bigger area called Orient Land Trust. This place has natural hot springs where you can swim and relax. The water feels really good. There are also places to hike and see animals like bats and birds. People can stay overnight in cabins or camping spots. What makes it unique is it's also a place that cares a lot about nature and keeping the land safe and clean. So, when you visit, you're not just having fun; you're also helping take care of the environment.
Getting to Valley View Hot Springs
Image courtesy of @durstockdestinations
Location: Valley View Hot Springs, Moffat, CO 81143
Valley View Hot Springs is quite the adventure! Located in Moffat, Colorado, it may be a little off the beaten path, but trust me, it's totally worth the journey. To find it, I relied on my trusty GPS since it's nestled amidst nature. Having the address, Moffat, CO 81143, definitely comes in handy. The roads leading there are mostly in good condition, but be prepared for some rough patches, so it's important to drive cautiously. Once you're getting close, keep an eye out for signs that will guide you to the right spot. To enhance your visit, make sure to bring a few essentials. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit for the hot springs, some towels to dry off, and of course, plenty of water. If you're into hiking, bring along your gear as well, as there are some amazing trails to explore. Since it's a bit remote, it's wise to come prepared and avoid any unnecessary trips back to town.
The Pools
Number of pools: Several, with different temperatures
Unique feature: Natural, outdoors, and clothing-optional. Note: when I visited, there were very few people there. But after looking across Instagram for pics to show, I noticed there were a LOT of people who took advantage of the clothing-optional policy if you know what I mean.
Best time to go: Early morning or late evening for fewer people.
The pools at Valley View Hot Springs are truly incredible. With multiple pools, each with its own temperature, you can easily find the perfect one to suit your mood. Some are delightfully warm, perfect for cooler days, while others are refreshingly cool, ideal for hot weather. Being natural and outdoors, you can unwind while gazing at the stars or the mountains.
What sets these pools apart is that they are clothing-optional, giving you the freedom to decide whether to wear a swimsuit or not. The atmosphere is respectful, focusing on comfort and appreciating the natural surroundings. I discovered that early mornings or late evenings were the most serene times to visit, with fewer people around. Don't forget to bring a towel and water to stay hydrated, especially in the warm pools.
Amenities and Facilities
Amenities: Cabins, camping spots, sauna, and picnic areas
Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, and a small store for essentials
Valley View Hot Springs has got you covered with all the amenities and facilities you need for a comfortable visit. If you're planning to stay overnight, they offer cozy cabins and camping spots that are just perfect. And after a long day of exploring, you can unwind in their sauna, which is absolutely heavenly. When it's time to eat, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of their picnic areas with a breathtaking view. To make your stay even more convenient, they have bathrooms and showers available for you to freshen up after taking a dip in the hot springs. And if you forgot to pack any essentials, no worries! They have a small store where you can grab snacks or sunscreen. It's really handy, especially since the nearest town is a bit of a drive away. The best part is that everything is kept clean and well-maintained, showing that they truly care about their visitors' experience.
Staff
Staff members: Friendly and knowledgeable
How they help: Give tours, answer questions, and ensure safety
The team at Valley View Hot Springs truly adds a special touch to the place. As soon as I got there, I could see how warm and friendly everyone was. They're very knowledgeable about the hot springs and the area around them. If you need advice on where to go or what to do, they're the ones to ask. They can even give you a tour or recommend the best spots for hiking or wildlife watching.
Safety is a top priority at Valley View Hot Springs, and the staff are always on it. They ensure that everyone knows the rules, such as where it's safe to swim and how to use the hot springs responsibly. They also help maintain the cleanliness of the area, which is crucial for enjoying nature. I felt well taken care of, and it was evident that the staff are dedicated to ensuring everyone has a great time and stays safe.
What to Bring
When you go to Valley View Hot Springs, make sure to pack these things:
Swimsuit: Even though it's clothing-optional, you might feel more comfortable having one.
Towel: You'll need it for drying off after being in the pools.
Water: Staying hydrated is super important, especially if you're going in the hot pools or hiking.
Hiking shoes: If you plan to explore the trails, good shoes are a must.
Snacks: There might not be a lot of places to buy food nearby, so bring something to munch on.
Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes, so protect your skin.
Hat and sunglasses: They'll help keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face.
Camera or phone: You'll see some beautiful views you might want to take pictures of.
A small backpack: It's handy for carrying everything while keeping your hands free.
Flashlight or headlamp: If you're staying until it gets dark, you'll need a light to see the paths.
Best Times to Visit
Summer (June to August):
Warm weather, perfect for swimming and hiking.
Busier, expect more people.
Full experience with warm pools and open trails.
Spring and Fall (April, May, September, October):
Fewer visitors, more space and quiet.
Cooler weather, pack warmer clothes for evenings.
Beautiful scenery with spring flowers or fall leaves.
Winter:
Least crowded, very quiet.
Cold weather, snow may make access difficult.
Consider if you enjoy snowy landscapes and don't mind the cold.
The ideal time to visit Valley View Hot Springs depends on your preferences. If you're into swimming and hiking under the warm sun, then summer is the perfect season. From June to August, the weather is delightful and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. However, keep in mind that it can get quite crowded during this time. But if you don't mind the hustle and bustle, summer offers the complete experience with its inviting pools and picturesque trails to explore.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more serene atmosphere and don't mind cooler temperatures, then spring or fall would be more suitable for you. During April, May, September, and October, there are fewer visitors, which means you'll have more space to yourself in the hot springs and on the trails. Additionally, the views during these seasons are simply stunning, with vibrant flowers in spring and colorful foliage in fall. Just remember to pack some warmer clothing, especially for the evenings.
Winter is also a less crowded time to visit, but it's important to note that it can be quite cold and reaching the hot springs might be more challenging due to snow. So, take some time to consider what kind of trip you're looking for: a warm and lively experience, or a peaceful and cool retreat.
Things to Do Near Valley View Hot Springs
Near Valley View Hot Springs, there's a lot to do. Here's a big list:
Hiking: There are trails for all levels. You can see mountains, forests, and wildlife.
Stargazing: The sky is super clear here. At night, you can see stars, planets, and sometimes shooting stars.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and bats. The area is full of nature.
Visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park: It's not too far and has huge sand dunes you can hike or sled down.
Explore Local Towns: Nearby towns like Salida have cute shops, art, and food to try.
Fishing: Some nearby rivers and lakes are perfect for fishing. Make sure you have the right permit.
Photography: With all the beautiful views, it's a great place to take photos.
Relaxing: Sometimes, the best thing to do is nothing. Just enjoy the quiet and relax.
Mountain Biking: There are trails and roads nearby that are good for biking.
Hot Springs Touring: Besides Valley View, there are other hot springs in the area you can visit.
Camping: If you like sleeping under the stars, there are spots to camp in the area.
Attend Local Events: Check if there are any local festivals, markets, or events happening during your visit.
Best Places to Eat
Near Valley View Hot Springs, you won't find a lot of big restaurants, but there are some great places to eat that have their own charm. Here's a list of some spots I like:
Crestone Brewing Co.: They have good food and even better beer. It's a cozy spot to relax after a day at the hot springs.
Mirage Trading Company: Perfect for a quick bite or coffee. They have snacks and drinks that hit the spot.
The Hungry Miner: If you're into burgers and fries, this is your place. It's casual and the food is tasty.
Joyful Journey Hot Springs Cafe: Not too far from Valley View, they serve light meals and snacks. Great for when you're moving between hot springs.
3 Barrel Brewing Co.: Another brewery that offers pizzas and a variety of beers. It's a fun place to hang out.
These places might require a bit of driving from Valley View Hot Springs, but they offer a taste of the local flavor and hospitality.
History
Valley View Hot Springs has an interesting backstory. It goes way back, long before any of us were even born. The Native Americans used to come here to enjoy the healing waters of these hot springs. Then, in the late 1800s, settlers stumbled upon the springs and realized how special they were too. Throughout the years, different people owned the land and used it for various purposes, like ranching and even a health resort.
But in 1978, something significant happened. The Orient Land Trust, a group dedicated to preserving the land and maintaining the natural beauty of the hot springs, bought the place. They wanted to ensure that the wildlife, such as bats and birds, had a safe haven to call home. So, when you come to visit, you're not just experiencing any ordinary hot springs. You're immersing yourself in a piece of history that revolves around nature and the simplicity of life.
Is Valley View Hot Springs Worth It?
I’d say it’s absolutely worth seeing. It's a one-of-a-kind place where you can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning scenery. The hot springs are truly remarkable, with pools of varying temperatures to suit everyone's preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing dip, a scenic hike, or simply stargazing in the tranquility of the night, Valley View has it all. Additionally, the clothing-optional policy allows for a deeper connection with nature for those who are comfortable with it.
One of the standout features of Valley View is its commitment to environmental preservation. Managed by a trust dedicated to conservation and sustainability, your visit directly supports their efforts to protect the local ecosystem and wildlife. In addition to the hot springs, the area boasts hiking trails, wildlife observation opportunities, and incredible stargazing experiences. And because it's slightly off the beaten path, you can enjoy a more peaceful and uncrowded visit compared to other tourist destinations. For a serene and environmentally conscious getaway, Valley View Hot Springs is an excellent choice.
