Cement Creek Hot Spring

Gunnison County, Colorado · Near Crested Butte
38.8360°N, 106.8250°W · 9,223 ft
77°F 9,223 ft Short Walk Camping nearby (8.3 mi)

Cement Creek Hot Spring flows at 77 degrees Fahrenheit near Crested Butte at 9,223 feet elevation. A moderate 430-foot walk through alpine terrain provides access to this lesser-known thermal feature in Gunnison County.

Location

The spring emerges along Cement Creek in a high-altitude setting surrounded by subalpine forest and meadows. Summer offers brief window for comfortable visits, though the short season mirrors the alpine ecosystem's harsh winters and rapid snow accumulation.

A short walk of approximately 430 feet from the nearest road provides straightforward access. Summer (July through early September) offers the only practical visiting window; snow blocks access the remainder of the year. Bring sun protection and prepare for rapid weather changes.

History of Cement Creek Hot Spring

Water chemistry shows near-neutral pH and moderate mineralization typical of high-altitude thermal features. The creek derives its name from mining activity in the region; historical mining operations influenced water quality and landscape throughout the area.

Monthly Climate
16°
Jan
19°
Feb
27°
Mar
33°
Apr
40°
May
53°
Jun
59°
Jul
57°
Aug
51°
Sep
37°
Oct
23°
Nov
15°
Dec
Annual Precip: 20.3 in Annual Snow: 100.6 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 16°F · Water 77°F · +62° contrast
December Air 15°F · Water 77°F · +62° contrast
February Air 19°F · Water 77°F · +59° contrast
January offers 44°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
59°F
Mostly Cloudy NE 37.3 mph 29% Good soaking weather
This Afternoon 50° Low 31° Mostly Sunny 4% precip
Spring is +27° warmer
Friday 57° Low 32° Sunny 1% precip
Spring is +20° warmer
Saturday 57° Low 31° Sunny 2% precip
Spring is +20° warmer
Sunday 62° Low 32° Sunny
Spring is +15° warmer
Monday 67° Low 36° Sunny 1% precip
Spring is +10° warmer
Water Chemistry Sampled 1978-06-07

The water at Cement Creek Hot Spring is neutral (pH 7.2).

pH 7.2 Neutral
pH influences mineral absorption through skin
Calcium 79 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 21 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 39 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 83 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 17 mg/L
Natural antiseptic with skin health benefits
Iron 20 µg/L
Iron-rich springs may support circulation
Where to Stay

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Nearby Camping
One Mile 8.3 mi away

Overview One Mile Campground is located 18 miles from Gunnison, CO in the Taylor River Canyon. Visitors enjoy the area for its rafting, fishing and trail opportunities. Recreation The Taylor River can be accessed from the campground, and offers a calm stretch for rafting and kayaking. Anglers cast for rainbow and brook trout. The Fossil Ridge Wilderness Area is nearby. The Summerville and South Lottis trailheads provide access to the scenic, natural area. A number of off-road trails are fo...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
High Altitude Advisory 9,223 ft

At 9,223 feet, Cement Creek Hot Spring is in high-altitude territory where the air is noticeably thinner. Soaking in hot water accelerates dehydration and can amplify altitude effects like headache and fatigue. UV radiation is roughly 37% stronger here — wear sunscreen even on overcast days and take breaks from the water to rehydrate.

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Temperature
77°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 77°F (25°C)
Avg Air Temp 36°F
Above Ambient +41°F
Good soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Short Walk
Distance to Road 429 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Cement Creek Hot Spring?
Cement Creek Hot Spring has a water temperature of 77°F (25°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Cement Creek Hot Spring located?
Cement Creek Hot Spring is located in Gunnison County, Colorado at 9,223 feet elevation, near Crested Butte. Coordinates: 38.8360°N, 106.8250°W.
How do I get to Cement Creek Hot Spring?
Cement Creek Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (429 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Cement Creek Hot Spring?
Yes, One Mile is located nearby (8.3 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Cement Creek Hot Spring?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of pH, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. The pH is 7.2 (neutral).
Is it safe to soak at Cement Creek Hot Spring?
Cement Creek Hot Spring is generally safe for soaking at its recorded temperature. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Cement Creek Hot Spring crowded?
Cement Creek Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Cement Creek Hot Spring?
Essentials for Cement Creek Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS, Wikipedia