Lemon Hot Spring
Lemon Hot Spring emerges at 91°F from Bureau of Land Management property in San Miguel County at 7,320 feet elevation, where federal management ensures public access to this protected thermal feature near the exclusive mountain resort community of Mountain Village.
The spring sits just 256 feet from Stella Drive on BLM land in the rugged San Juan Mountains near Telluride's alpine domain. The landscape features mixed conifer forest transitioning to subalpine vegetation at this elevation. The modest thermal temperature makes bathing feasible with minimal cooling, and the BLM location provides a public alternative to commercial resort facilities.
Lemon Hot Spring water circulates through bedrock beneath the Uncompahgre plateau, accumulating dissolved minerals including 760 mg/L sodium, 840 mg/L sulfate, 270 mg/L chloride, and notable iron at 890 micrograms per liter. The BLM designation balances public access with extractive-use protections, maintaining the thermal resource for public benefit while permitting responsible development.
This BLM-managed spring provides public access to thermal soaking without resort fees. The roadside approach minimizes hiking, though the mountain elevation means seasonal snow can temporarily close access. Best visited from June through October when the high country remains accessible. Leave no trace and respect BLM regulations.
Is Lemon Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
The water at Lemon Hot Spring is neutral (pH 7.2). It is notably rich in calcium (may support bone density and joint health), sodium (supports circulation and skin hydration), and sulfate (traditionally used for skin conditions and inflammation).
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Overview Matterhorn Campground is located along the San Juan Skyway (Colorado Highway 145), near the quaint town of Telluride, at an elevation of 8,500 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its beautiful scenery, hiking and off-road opportunities.Recreation The Galloping Goose Trail #449 can be accessed from the campground. This 8.4-mile trail leads past a restored train trestle, over two trail bridges and along segments of the historic Rio Grande Southern Railway. The trail is open to hiking, bi...