Rico 2
Rico 2 emerges at 8,777 feet elevation near the historic mining town of Rico in San Miguel County, positioned along Saint Lewis Road just 60 meters from vehicular access in terrain overlooking the Dolores River valley.
This roadside thermal feature sits in mountainous San Juan country experiencing an average annual temperature of 39.7°F with substantial precipitation totaling 34.5 inches yearly and 134.2 inches falling as snow. The landscape features mixed coniferous forest and high mountain meadows. The spring's location along the scenic San Juan Skyway corridor provides access to diverse recreational opportunities across the region.
Road access makes this an accessible stop during warmer months. Winter conditions typically close or restrict access via Saint Lewis Road with snow accumulation. Cayton Campground lies 5.7 miles away along Highway 145, offering developed camping near the Dolores River fishing areas. The San Juan Skyway scenic loop provides context for visiting multiple thermal features throughout the region.
The spring sits in terrain shaped by historic mineral extraction activity, with Rico representing one of Colorado's well-preserved mining towns from the late 1800s. The name reflects the sequential numbering system for thermal features in this productive geothermal region. Saint Lewis Road follows historic routes through the Dolores River drainage basin.
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Overview Cayton Campground is located along the San Juan Skyway (Colorado Highway 145) and the Dolores River. Visitors enjoy the area for its great fishing, hiking and scenic driving opportunities.Recreation The Dolores River is a popular fishing destination that can often be crowded on summer weekends. Anglers will find rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. The area boasts some excellent trails. The Colorado Trail follows the ridge across Bolam Pass. The Lizard Head and Cross Mountain Trails...
At 8,777 feet, Rico 2 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 35% stronger here — wear sunscreen even on overcast days and take breaks from the water to rehydrate.
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Rico 2 is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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