Monica E.
Yelp
I was heading to Glenwood Springs spa and, confused by the directions, ended up here instead. Thankfully.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs is a gift and a treat. And what luck -- an entire adult-only section with more than one dozen additional pools recently opened as an expansion to the family-side section. So there is something for everyone: family, small children, solo visitors and couples looking for a romantic getaway.
What to know:
Bring everything you need: A bathing suit, shoes, a change of clothing, lotion, soap, shampoo, conditioner, brushes and combs, razors, a robe, etc. The spa does offer body wash, shampoo and conditioner and towels, but you may simply want to pack in for personal preference and comfort. Robes are also offered for purchase (not rental). I highly suggest bringing your own reusable water bottle, and there are stations to refill. Also, bring your identification. You will be provided a locker, and there is a spinner with plastic bags for bathing suits after you soak.
Costs are readily displayed on the website. The springs are open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. -- but be attentive. There are temporarily closures seemingly multiple times each year when the springs are closed for maintenance work and cleaning. Be sure to check the website before your trip.
General access for three hours with access to the family section is up to $52. For access to all pools, you will be paying at least $59 -- and cost varies depending on the amount of time you want to stay and whether it is the weekend or a holiday. It can cost up to $150 per person for the full day for admission alone.
It goes without saying, but will say it anyway: use the restroom before you enter the springs.
It also goes without saying: pay attention to yourself and your needs. Some of the pools are nearly 110 degrees, which is extremely hot. Be sure to drink lots of water to stay hydrated, eat at least some snacks (before and during your visit) and try different pools. I found that the pools at about 98 degrees were the most relaxing, and I could sit in those for an hour without feeling any level of distress (but also while staying hydrated).
If you are not coming with children, I strongly recommend going with the pass that allows access to all 32 pools. You will not want to miss the 21+ section. There, you will have access to pools inspired by the Dead Sea, the Blue Lagoon and Hokkaido. One of the pulls has waterfalls. And there is a cold plunge. Note that individual pools are not private, and are shared. I found that the majority of guests were very respectful and quiet, which made my trips just wonderful.
You will periodically smell an egg-like scent -- this is completely normal at mineral springs. Some pools are stronger than others.
There are also food and drinks for purchase, including alcoholic beverages (to my surprise), at the Sopris Café and the Sandbar Café. Prices are reasonable for a spa and nachos (with barbecue pork burnt ends -- delicious), a falafel bowl, garlic hummus, flatbread (the fig & prosciutto sounded good, but I did not try it), sandwiches, bagels, charcuterie, fresh fruits, smoked trout (this seems very popular), chips, crackers, salads, desserts, soda, smoothies, juices, beer, cocktails (think margarita and whisky), mocktails and wine (in cans).
You will find QR codes at some of the pools allowing you to make your order online and to receive a notification once ready. There are seats and tables throughout to enjoy your meals as well.
If you are there for a 3-hour soak, you should be attentive to the color of your wristband. There will be an announcement about 10 minutes before departure time to let you know that it is your time to exist. Trust, that will be a very sad announcement to hear.