Ouray, Colorado, is often referred to as the Switzerland of America.
It's also the Jeep Capital of the World, and also home to hot springs.
Notice
The facility was renovated starting in 2021, so it may look different from what it looks like today.
With a spectacular view
At an elevation of 7,700 feet and surrounded by the San Juan Mountains on three sides, Ouray is a former mining town.
It is also known as the Switzerland of America because of its beautiful scenery. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations along with Telluride, which is just over Imogene Pass.
Jeeps, the automobile brand of Stellantis, can be seen driving around the city because the city is being promoted as the Jeep Capital of the World.
The shortcut to Telluride, a neighboring town, is only accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles with high ground clearance.
Taking advantage of the fact that there are many such rough roads in the vicinity, people have turned it into a leisure activity by renting jeeps and ATVs.
You can rent the ones at Twin Peaks Lodge, but I came here for a different reason.
It's a natural hot spring.
In 1913, there was already a hot spring sanatorium; cabins were eventually built, and in 1968, the hotel became part of the global hotel chain, Best Western.
In 2013, it became an independent hotel again.
In the center of the property, surrounded by the lodging buildings, there was one outdoor pool that could be accessed with a card key.
Next to it, in front of the pump shed, was a hot tub.
It was small enough for four soakers
Clothing is required in all spa areas.
The water temp at the water outlet was 109 degrees F, although that at the source was said to be 158 degrees F.
It was cooled by adding water.
The temperature in the tub was 102 degrees F since it was naturally cooled as it flowed down from the waterfall.
I had the impression that it had been watered down and diluted, but the water had a pronounced metallic smell, and I did not detect any unpleasant chlorination.
Soaking in the outdoor tub and gazing at picturesque scenery was a gorgeous time.
Adult-only indoor pool
The building with the triangular roof was for the indoor pool.
It was for adults only.
Inside, there was one large pool that could hold eight soakers, and it was also filled with brown mineral water.
The water temp in the pool was about 104 degrees F, and it was watered too.
The pool was carefully laid with smooth river stones.
Sunlight streamed in through the large windows, creating a very peaceful space.
Summary
Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs, Ouray, Colorado, U.S.
My rating
Type: Lodging
Rule: Private pool, Clothing required
Chemical use: Not detected
Water temp: Up to 109 degrees F
