Splashland Hot Springs
Splashland Hot Springs reaches 40.5 degrees Celsius (105 degrees Fahrenheit) at just 13 meters from a gravel road near Alamosa East. This roadside spring sits in Colorado's San Luis Valley at 7,543 feet elevation, providing easy access to geothermal water in high desert terrain.
The spring emerges in sparse, wind-swept country characteristic of the San Luis Valley's vast open plateaus. Sagebrush and short grasses dominate the landscape, with commanding views of surrounding mountains. The mineral-rich water carries a sodium-bicarbonate signature with pH of 8.3, creating an alkaline thermal pool.
Roadside access via gravel road makes this spring readily available. Winter snowfall of 26 inches annually may create access challenges November through March. Best visits occur May through October. Bring wind protection, as the exposed location experiences strong prevailing westerly winds year-round.
Splashland Hot Springs likely takes its name from recreational use of the spring's thermal waters. The spring's chemistry reflects passage through deep aquifers, accumulating sodium and bicarbonate as water circulates beneath the high plateau. Geothermal heating in this region is sustained by the valley's active geothermal gradient.
The water at Splashland Hot Springs is slightly alkaline (pH 8.3).
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Overview A short drive up the gravel road that leads to the Bureau of Land Management’s Zapata Falls Campground (CG) will let visitors to the area see the San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve from a whole new perspective. The campground offers bird’s-eye views of the valley floor below, the San Juan Mountains to the west, the adjacent Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and several 14er’s and many other towering peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range th...
Splashland Hot Springs sits at 7,543 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 30% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Splashland Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. Cold air temperatures make a changing robe or warm layers essential.
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Springs Near Splashland Hot Springs
Slightly Alkaline Springs (pH ~8.3)
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