Eldorado Springs

Boulder County, Colorado · Near Boulder
39.9320°N, 105.2770°W · 5,758 ft
79°F 5,758 ft Roadside Camping nearby (11.7 mi)

Eldorado Springs emerges at 79 degrees Fahrenheit in Boulder County's foothills as a low-mineralization thermal seep just 9 meters from Chesebro Way—among Colorado's most convenient roadside thermal experiences.

Location

Water flows in a setting of Front Range foothills where pine and Douglas fir frame the small spring area. The immediate roadside access offers minimal immersion opportunity but provides straightforward viewing of thermal discharge in a landscape overlooking Boulder Valley's developed front range zone at 5,758 feet.

Located immediately adjacent to Chesebro Way near Boulder, Eldorado Springs requires no hiking. Water reaches only 79 degrees and flows in a small seep unsuitable for full immersion. The site offers roadside viewing only. Access is available year-round; the proximity to Boulder provides nearby services and accommodations.

History of Eldorado Springs

Eldorado Springs represents Colorado's marginal geothermal systems—water heated by circulation through fracture networks rather than proximity to magmatic heat. This modest spring maintains consistent temperatures year-round, suggesting stable deep aquifer conditions beneath the northern Colorado Front Range.

Monthly Climate
25°
Jan
26°
Feb
36°
Mar
43°
Apr
52°
May
67°
Jun
71°
Jul
70°
Aug
63°
Sep
47°
Oct
36°
Nov
26°
Dec
Annual Precip: 23.8 in Annual Snow: 60.9 in
Best Time to Visit
January Air 25°F · Water 79°F · +54° contrast
February Air 26°F · Water 79°F · +53° contrast
December Air 26°F · Water 79°F · +53° contrast
January offers 46°F more contrast than July
Current Conditions
48°F
Clear SW 41.1 mph 37% Good soaking weather
Thursday 64° Low 31° Partly Sunny 2% precip
Spring is +15° warmer
Friday 68° Low 42° Sunny 5% precip
Spring is +11° warmer
Saturday 75° Low 48° Mostly Sunny 9% precip
Spring is +4° warmer
Sunday 72° Low 46° Sunny 6% precip
Spring is +7° warmer
Monday 87° Low 46° Sunny
Water Chemistry Sampled 1976-04-26

The water at Eldorado Springs contains 130 mg/L total dissolved solids.

Higher mineral concentration for therapeutic soaking
Calcium 11 mg/L
May support bone density and joint health
Magnesium 3 mg/L
Known for muscle relaxation and stress relief
Sodium 7 mg/L
Supports circulation and skin hydration
Sulfate 21 mg/L
Traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation
Chloride 1 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
Kelly Dahl 11.7 mi away

Overview Kelly Dahl Campground is located adjacent to the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway, near the historic mining towns of Nederland, Rollinsville, Central City and Black Hawk.Recreation Although no formal trails exist in the campground, a few closed roads offer campers the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. West Magnolia and East Portal Trailheads offer trails within a short drive. The Rollins Pass Road (Moffat Road) and other off-road routes can be found in the vicinity. The lakes ac...

Reservable Yes
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Mile-High Advisory 5,758 ft

Eldorado Springs sits at 5,758 feet above sea level, way above the mile-high mark. You may not feel the altitude strongly, but hot water still dehydrates you faster at elevation. UV is about 23% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.

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Temperature
79°F
Warm Hot Boiling
Water Temp 79°F (26°C)
Avg Air Temp 47°F
Above Ambient +32°F
Mild soaking conditions May
Access
Road Access Roadside
Nearest Road Chesebro Way
Distance to Road 30 ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the water temperature at Eldorado Springs?
Eldorado Springs has a water temperature of 79°F (26°C). This is a warm thermal spring.
Where is Eldorado Springs located?
Eldorado Springs is located in Boulder County, Colorado at 5,758 feet elevation, near Boulder. Coordinates: 39.9320°N, 105.2770°W.
How do I get to Eldorado Springs?
Eldorado Springs has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Chesebro Way (30 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Eldorado Springs?
Yes, Kelly Dahl is located nearby (11.7 miles away).
What minerals are in the water at Eldorado Springs?
Water chemistry analysis shows the presence of Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Sulfate, Chloride, Iron. Total dissolved solids measure 130 mg/L.
Is it safe to soak at Eldorado Springs?
Eldorado Springs 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 Eldorado Springs crowded?
Eldorado Springs is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Eldorado Springs?
Essentials for Eldorado Springs: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in.
Sources: USGS NWIS