Rhodes Warm Spring
Rhodes Warm Spring emerges at 75°F at 10,172 feet elevation in the high mountain country of Park County near Fairplay, offering a 42.8°F temperature boost above the frigid alpine conditions typical of this region.
The spring sits just 109 meters from Warm Springs Road through terrain dominated by stunted subalpine spruce and fir forest. The landscape reaches near-timberline conditions with scattered willows and alpine tundra vegetation. The surrounding meadows and mountainous terrain create an isolated alpine setting with expansive views across the South Park basin.
Easy access requires just a short walk from Warm Springs Road parking areas. Horseshoe Campground lies 2.9 miles away in San Isabel National Forest, featuring tree-sheltered sites near Horseshoe Creek. The Limber Grove Trail nearby showcases 1,000-year-old limber pines. Summer through early autumn offers the most comfortable conditions, as winter snows average 81 inches annually.
This thermal feature sits in terrain rich in Colorado mining history, with Fairplay nearby representing a surviving mining town from the 1800s. The modest water temperatures and low mineralization suggest shallow circulation through granitic bedrock. The spring name reflects its distinctive thermal characteristics within an otherwise frigid alpine environment.
The water at Rhodes Warm Spring is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5).
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Overview Horseshoe Campground sits along its namesake creek near a grassy meadow among aspen, Engelmann spruce and Bristlecone pines in the San Isabel National Forest. Trees provide good privacy between campsites, which are located at the base of Sheep Mountain. Recreation Visitors enjoy the Limber Grove Trail, a 3-mile mountainside path that winds through 1,000-year-old limber pine with gigantic twisted trunks. Fishing or wading in Horseshoe Creek are also popular pastimes. Facilities The ca...
Rhodes Warm Spring sits at 10,172 feet — well above 10,000 ft where the air holds roughly 30% less oxygen than at sea level. Altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness) is a real risk, especially when combined with the dehydrating effects of hot water. UV exposure is approximately 41% stronger than at sea level. Acclimate for at least 24 hours before soaking, drink extra water, and descend if symptoms worsen.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Rhodes Warm Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Springs Near Rhodes Warm Spring
More Springs Around 75°F
Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~7.5)
Hike 6 waterfalls near Rhodes Warm Spring
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Explore waterfall hikes near Rhodes Warm Spring, Colorado.