Penny Hot Springs
A few rock-ringed pools at the edge of the Crystal River between Carbondale and Redstone that hold about 10 to 12 people. There is no trash can, so pack everything out. Penny Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Free roadside pools on the Crystal River off Highway 133, a few hundred feet north of mile marker 55. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Redstone, CO Managed by Pitkin County Open Space and Trails (with CDOT right of way) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 133 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
| Parking | Roadside pull-off on Highway 133, about 20 cars |
| Dogs | Not allowed |
| Facilities | portable toilet |
Best time to soak: Penny Hot Springs
From October to April average highs around Redstone stay at 34 to 60 °F, with nights down to 9 °F. Freezing nights from October to April mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35 °F | 9 °F | 3 |
| Feb | 38 °F | 12 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 46 °F | 21 °F | 4 |
| Apr | 55 °F | 28 °F | 6 |
| May | 65 °F | 35 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 77 °F | 42 °F | 2 |
| Jul | 82 °F | 48 °F | 6 |
| Aug | 80 °F | 47 °F | 5 |
| Sep | 72 °F | 40 °F | 4 |
| Oct | 60 °F | 29 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 45 °F | 19 °F | 4 |
| Dec | 34 °F | 9 °F | 3 |
More to do nearby
- Hayes Creek Falls (waterfall, 5 mi)
- Ice ring (ice rink, 15 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- 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
-
Illustration SIMARI quick-dry water shoes for women and men Grip on slick rock and gravel pool bottoms, and they dry fast on the walk out. 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.
Other hot springs near Redstone
- Avalanche Ranch Cabins & Hot Springs Day pass
- Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Day pass
- Yampah Spa Vapor Caves Day pass
- Conundrum Hot Springs Free
- Iron Mountain Hot Springs Day pass
- Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa Day pass
- Radium Warm Springs Free
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort Day pass
Waterfalls nearby
- Hayes Creek Falls (5 mi)
- Devil’s Punch Bowl (15 mi)
- Judd Falls (23 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
Do you have to pay at Penny Hot Springs?
Yes. Penny Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee; roadside pull-off on Highway 133, about 20 cars.
How hot is Penny Hot Springs?
133 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
Can you bring dogs to Penny Hot Springs?
No, dogs are not allowed.