I’m no stranger to the restorative power of hot springs. Over the years of living in Colorado, I’ve dipped into about ten different mineral-rich pools, from rustic riverside soaks to more developed resorts. Each one offers its unique charm. However, my recent visit to Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway, Colorado, marked a significant first: my inaugural experience at a clothing-optional hot springs.
We arrived on a Friday afternoon, ready to unwind, and spent a blissful two hours soaking in the unique atmosphere. The day pass was a reasonable $28, with a $3 towel rental (a small price to pay for convenience), which allowed you to come and go all day. Orvis boasts an impressive array of soaking options: seven outdoor pools and three indoor ones, each promising a different vibe and temperature.
I used the restroom and changed into my suit and flip flops. I stashed my belongings into one of the free lockers. Passed by the kitchen with complementary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. On the way out, I filled up my water bottle at the water station. Upon exit, I was pleasantly surprised by the landscaping and quietness. There were a decent number of people there, spread out in pools, picnicking on the grass, or resting on the chairs and benches. For the most part you couldn’t see more than one pool at a time. Near each pool were chairs and benches along with racks to hang towels or robes. There was a wide range of ages from what looked like 20s to 70s. Everyone was quiet and respectful.
My initial approach was cautious. I entered the waters wearing my bathing suit, observing the scene. While many bathers were indeed nude, there was a comfortable mix of 30% clothed and 70% unclothed individuals, which immediately put me at ease, I wasn’t the only one clothed. I explored about four of the outdoor pools – The Pond, Island Pond, North Pond, and the tranquil Quiet Pond. Each one was perfectly temperate, a soothing warmth that was neither too hot to be uncomfortable nor too cool to be refreshing. The natural setting, with beautiful landscaping and some views of the surrounding mountains, and the incredibly blue sky with few clouds added to the serene ambiance.
As the minutes drifted by, something shifted. By the 90-minute mark, surrounded by so many people comfortably enjoying the springs in their natural state, a sense of liberation began to bubble up. It felt less like a novelty and more like a natural extension of the relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. So, I took the plunge: I lowered my bathing suit top. And yes, it was incredibly liberating and freeing in a sense. There was no sudden rush of self-consciousness, just a feeling of shedding an unnecessary layer, both literally and figuratively. It was a moment of embracing vulnerability and finding comfort in my own skin, in a space designed for natural relaxation.
Orvis Hot Springs offers a truly unique and wonderfully uninhibited soaking experience. There are no electronics allowed, making it a comfort to know that privacy is a priority here. The natural beauty of the setting, combined with the varied pools and the welcoming atmosphere, makes it a standout. My first foray into clothing-optional soaking was a surprisingly comfortable and empowering one. Perhaps next time, I’ll be even more freeing from the start. It’s a reminder that sometimes, stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected moments of peace and self-acceptance. If you’re looking to try something new and truly unwind, Orvis Hot Springs is a fantastic place to do it.
(no electronics allowed and I forgot to get a photo of the outside/sign…so stock photo above)
They also have massages, camping, and lodging.