Outdoors NearbyConundrum Hot Springs
High-elevation natural pools in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, reached by a long hike up Conundrum Creek. Dogs are banned in the permit zone and group size is limited to 10. Conundrum Hot Springs costs nothing to visit. Plan on hiking 9 miles each way to reach the water.
| Access | Free, public land Day hikers need no permit; overnight stays in the Conundrum Hot Springs Permit Zone require an advance permit from Recreation.gov. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Aspen, CO Managed by USFS White River NF (Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 100 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Season | June–October; snow covers trails and campsites from early October to late June |
| Reservations | required |
| Hike | 9 miles one way from Conundrum Creek Trailhead About 9 miles each way with three creek crossings; plan for an overnight trip. |
| Parking | Overnight permit from Recreation.gov for the permit zone |
| Dogs | Not allowed |
| Camping | Conundrum Hot Springs designated campsites (permit) |
| Website | fs.usda.gov |
Best time to soak: Conundrum Hot Springs
Most people soak in the cooler months. From October to May average highs near Aspen stay at 26 to 58 °F, with nights down to -6 °F. From October to May lows average -6 to 29 °F, so paths and decks around the pools can ice over and dirt roads may close.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26 °F | -6 °F | 8 |
| Feb | 29 °F | -2 °F | 7 |
| Mar | 38 °F | 7 °F | 7 |
| Apr | 47 °F | 19 °F | 7 |
| May | 58 °F | 29 °F | 4 |
| Jun | 70 °F | 34 °F | 3 |
| Jul | 76 °F | 40 °F | 6 |
| Aug | 74 °F | 38 °F | 7 |
| Sep | 66 °F | 31 °F | 6 |
| Oct | 54 °F | 22 °F | 5 |
| Nov | 39 °F | 9 °F | 6 |
| Dec | 27 °F | -4 °F | 7 |
More to do nearby
- Judd Falls (waterfall, 6 mi)
- Big Mine Park Ice Rink (outdoor ice rink, 11 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
More hot springs nearby
- Penny Hot Springs Free
- Avalanche Ranch Cabins & Hot Springs Day pass
- Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa Day pass
- Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Day pass
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort Day pass
- Yampah Spa Vapor Caves Day pass
- Iron Mountain Hot Springs Day pass
- Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center Day pass
Waterfalls nearby
- Judd Falls (6 mi)
- Devil’s Punch Bowl (10 mi)
- Ryks Waterfall (13 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Conundrum Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Conundrum Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee; overnight permit from Recreation.gov for the permit zone.
How hot is Conundrum Hot Springs?
100 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
How long is the hike to Conundrum Hot Springs?
9 miles one way from Conundrum Creek Trailhead. About 9 miles each way with three creek crossings; plan for an overnight trip.
Can you bring dogs to Conundrum Hot Springs?
No, dogs are not allowed.
When is Conundrum Hot Springs open?
June–October; snow covers trails and campsites from early October to late June.
Can you camp near Conundrum Hot Springs?
Conundrum Hot Springs designated campsites (permit).