Pinkerton Hot Springs is a unique, free roadside attraction located approximately 15 miles north of Durango on U.S. Highway 550. Known for its striking, multicolored mineral mound, the spring offers a quick opportunity for a foot soak in natural geothermal water that ranges from 95°F to 105°F.
Head about 15 minutes north of Durango on Highway 550, one of Colorado’s many scenic drives, and you’ll spot an odd formation on the right side of the road. You may see some cars parked in a pull-out next to the highway.
You’ve found Pinkerton Hot Springs, named for a once-popular vacation destination. So, what’s the story behind this Colorado roadside attraction?
Pinkerton Hot Springs Today
Pinkerton Hot Springs, just off Highway 550 in southwest Colorado north of Durango, is a curiosity that even some locals don’t know about. When you stop to investigate, you’ll see a multicolored manmade mound.
The ground around it is a bit marshy. On the side of the mound away from the highway, you’ll see a small pool with water trickling downhill away from it. This is Pinkerton Hot Springs.
Can you soak in Pinkerton Hot Springs? You may be able to sit in the pool, but it might best be considered someplace to soak your feet or, as many seem to do, just stop to see the springs, take some photos, and continue on their way.
What Makes the Water Hot?
As rain and snow melt seep into the ground, the water reaches lower, hotter levels, and is pushed back up to the surface. Minerals in the water include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate, according to David Gonzales, a professor of geosciences at Fort Lewis College who was quoted in a Durango Herald column.
So, how hot is the water at Pinkerton Hot Springs? It can range from 95º F to 105º F — check the water temperature before stepping in!
History of Pinkerton Hot Springs
In the 1870s, La Plata County Judge James Harvey Pinkerton, his wife Ann Eliza, and seven children had a successful dairy ranch near where the spring is today. In the late 1800s, the water was bottled and sold as a health cure-all (Note: Do not drink the water!).
Pinkerton opened a resort called Pinkerton-in-the-Pines, which offered swimming in a pool filled with water from the springs, music, and dancing.
The Silver World reported in 1878, “Pinkerton has a fine ranch . . . Upon it are several fine, warm mineral springs, particularly soda, near the larger of which he has erected an extensive bath house, furnishing delightful baths for the use of his family and guests.”
The ranch later burned down and today, Colorado Timberline Academy is located where the Pinkerton Ranch once stood.
The water originally came to the surface on the west side of the highway, but as it trickled across the road, it damaged the road surface. In 2001, the Colorado Department of Transportation created a drainage system that brought the water under the highway to the east side. There, they stacked rocks (or concrete blocks) that formed the basis of the multicolored, mineral-covered mound you see today.
Visiting Pinkerton Hot Springs
Since this hot spring is just off the side of the highway, it is open at all hours. There is a fairly large dirt pull-off on the east side of the road where you can park to walk the few steps to explore Pinkerton Hot Springs.
Take care when walking up to and around the spring as the ground can be marshy and the rocks slick with algae. There are no facilities such as picnic tables or restrooms available.
For good natural hot springs etiquette, if others are soaking in the springs, be courteous and give them some space. Chances are that nobody will consider this a clothing-optional hot spring since it is just steps from the highway.
A Fun Stop on Your Durango Travels
Add Pinkerton Hot Springs to your Durango travel itinerary. You can spend a few minutes exploring it on your way to other places, like Haviland Lake, which is another 15 minutes north of Durango, or even if you’re going further to visit more destinations to the north, like Silverton or the Million Dollar Highway. There are plenty of day trips and overnight adventures to enjoy when taking Highway 550 north from Durango.
So, stop at Pinkerton Hot Springs along the way: a free roadside geothermal hot spring with no bells, whistles, or massages available!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is Pinkerton Hot Springs located in Colorado?
Pinkerton Hot Springs is located along U.S. Highway 550, approximately 15 miles north of Durango in southwest Colorado. The springs are easily visible from the highway on the east side of the road.
How do you get to Pinkerton Hot Springs from Durango?
From Durango, head north on U.S. Highway 550 for about 15 miles. Pinkerton Hot Springs is located on the east side of the highway with a pull-off area for parking. You can drive right up to the springs.
What makes Pinkerton Hot Springs unique?
Pinkerton Hot Springs features a multicolored mineral mound that dribbles piping hot spring water right off the side of the highway. Unlike many Colorado hot springs that require hiking, you can drive directly to Pinkerton Hot Springs.
Can you soak in Pinkerton Hot Springs?
Yes, visitors can take off their shoes and dip their toes in the warm water that bubbles up from deep underground. The springs offer a relaxing foot soaking experience with natural mineral water. You may be able to sit in the pool, but check the water level when you arrive.
What is the temperature of Pinkerton Hot Springs?
The water at Pinkerton Hot Springs is naturally heated geothermal water that emerges from deep underground. The temperature is warm enough for comfortable foot soaking year-round. It can range from 95º to 105 º F.
Is there parking available at Pinkerton Hot Springs?
Yes, there is a pull-off area near the springs where visitors can park. Since it’s located right along Highway 550, parking is convenient and accessible.
Is Pinkerton Hot Springs suitable for families?
Yes, Pinkerton Hot Springs makes for a perfect relaxing stop on a day trip with friends or family. Its roadside accessibility makes it easy for visitors of all ages and mobility levels to enjoy.
What should you bring to Pinkerton Hot Springs?
Bring towels for drying off, water shoes if desired, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Since it’s a natural roadside spring, there are no facilities other than parking.
Is Pinkerton Hot Springs open year-round?
Yes, as a natural geothermal feature, Pinkerton Hot Springs is accessible year-round, though winter access may depend on road conditions along Highway 550.
Can you camp near Pinkerton Hot Springs?
While you cannot camp directly at the springs, there are numerous camping opportunities in the surrounding San Juan National Forest and near Durango.
What makes Pinkerton Hot Springs different from other Colorado hot springs?
Unlike most Colorado hot springs that require hiking or are developed into resorts, Pinkerton Hot Springs is a free roadside attraction that you can access easily from your vehicle.
Is Pinkerton Hot Springs safe to visit?
Yes, but visitors should exercise caution around the hot water and mineral deposits. The springs are located along a highway, so be aware of traffic when parking and accessing the area. Do not drink the water and make sure your pets don’t, either, as the water is not tested. For your safety, do not attempt to walk on or climb the mound.
