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Soak your way to serenity

by Madelyn  Miller

Native Americans believed the Colorado springs had medicinal powers. According to legend, a Ute chief, whose tribe had left him to die, appealed to his gods for power. The chief built fires below the bubbling waters, bathed and drank in them, and was healed. When he went back to his tribe, his curative powers were highly regarded. And so began centuries of soaking

Since then, people from all over the world have come to soak in the Hot Sulphur Springs.
There are now 15 baths and pools in a spectacular setting. There spartan lodgings are less than spectacular, but a good value when you consider that you get two days admittance for two (usually $10.50 a day per person) for two people. Rooms start at $80 a night. And this is not the kind of place where you are going to sit in your room, anyway.

Instead, bathe outside in either the lower family area with the cooler waters or seclude yourself in the warmer adult only areas above. The hot springs soothe the spirit, relax the body and just generally make you feel better. My favorite place was the Ute pool with a natural waterfall of warm water that works like a jet on the sore spots on your back. But I also spent a lot of time at the indoor pool in the solarium because I wanted to be careful not to get too much sun.

I did have an outdoor massage, with skillful strokes from Scott. ( I would definitely request him again) He thoughtfully brought sunscreen to use as the massage oil and rubbed it into my skin. I wish I could have sunscreen applied like that every day.

Speaking of every day, that is exactly when many of the locals enjoy the Hot Sulphur Springs. Besides the day pass, you can also get a multiple visit pass at a reduced rate.

HOW TO SOAK

It is suggested that you soak for ten minutes a session then cover yourself with a towel to sweat and cool. As you soak and relax, your skin's pores open and the elements of the water are absorbed.

It is not necessary to shower after soaking according to the resort. The elements have a positive effect on your skin and hair, and make your skin feel especially soft. But if you are planning not to shower, make sure you go with someone who has the same plans.

You are advised to drink lots of liquids after "taking the waters."  Signs everywhere remind you to drink water. But I only found one functioning water fountain. You can, of course, buy bottled water at the snack bar.

When not to soak.

Long exposure may cause dizziness so you are advised to take a cold shower if you feel dizzy, faint or nauseous. Elderly and pregnant persons should use extra precaution, and it is extremely unwise to soak while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

WHAT YOU ARE SOAKING IN

Wonder what exactly is in the water that bubbles up from 35,000 feet below the surface?  A few of the many minerals include:

Sulfate. This mineral forms molecular bridges to create firm proteins in hair, nails and skin. It rids the body of poisons and helps create smooth, clear skin. If you find white particles floating in the water, they are sulphur and sodium. Rub them on your skin. It helps keep your skin young.

Chloride. Balances body fluids, acids and bases.

Silica. Gives strength to bones, nerves, mucous membrane, nails and hair.

Potassium. Good for muscles, gives cells food.

Calcium. Helps build bone, activates enzymes.

Fluoride. Good for teeth and bones.
Magnesium. Makes and breaks down protein

Trace elements. Lithium, arsenic and Zinc.

HOW TO GET THERE

Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado is just 1 hour and 45 minutes northwest of Denver via I-70 to Highway 40.
It is 30 minutes west of Winter Park
Home James Shuttle is available

970-725-3306

http://www.coloradovacation.com/lodges/hotsulpr

email: hotsprings@rkymtnhi.com

Reader Comment: 8/20/02

We just stayed at Hot Sulpher Springs Lodge, CO. Your review was far to nice. This is one of the worst spas in Colorado. While the pools were warm and relaxing, the lodge rooms were pathetic. Spartan is understated. No heat in bathrooms, one free cup of coffee after 8am, no tv, and the WORST, "free" earplugs in a bowl in each room, in case the train noise is bothersome. And oh yes it is! About every hour, all night, trains go by within 100ft of the lodge, blowing their horns, backing up and switching. We counted eight trains that night as we awoke to them all. Once there, you're stuck because there are no lodges around for 15 miles. I will never go back and will tell everyone I know not to stay there. Soak and move on!

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