Wellsville Warm Spring
Wellsville Warm Spring emerges at 91 degrees Fahrenheit in Chaffee County near Salida at 6,861 feet elevation in the Arkansas River valley. The spring delivers a 45-degree temperature boost above the ambient mountain environment, providing accessible geothermal warmth requiring only a short walk from the road.
The short walk to the spring crosses varied terrain in a relatively mild valley environment surrounded by cottonwood and willow trees along the Arkansas River corridor. The landscape reflects the transition zone between high peaks and lower elevation river valleys. At roughly 46 degrees average annual temperature, the setting offers one of Colorado's more temperate thermal spring locations.
The spring sits just 165 meters from the road, making it convenient for visitors of varying abilities. The Arkansas River valley offers pleasant conditions during spring through fall, with manageable weather compared to higher Colorado elevations. Nearby Coaldale Campground provides rustic accommodations, though the spring's location near active river recreation means visits should respect private property boundaries.
Wellsville represents an important geothermal feature in the Arkansas River drainage system, with water chemistry revealing a mixed calcium-sodium-sulfate-chloride composition. The spring's moderate temperature reflects circulation through mineralized rock formations at moderate depths beneath the valley. The site has supported human use for generations, representing an accessible thermal resource in the foothills.
The water at Wellsville Warm Spring contains 470 mg/L total dissolved solids.
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Coaldale Campground is located on the banks of Hayden Creek and is a quiet campground with only 10 campsites. Most of the campsites are walk-in sites with small parking areas. The area is thick with gamble oak, juniper, and cottonwood trees . Sites 1-5 are walk-in sites for tent camping. Vault toilet is available only during peak season
Wellsville Warm Spring sits at 6,861 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 27% stronger than at sea level, so bring sunscreen and drink more water than you normally would.
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Wellsville Warm Spring is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear.
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