Strawberry Park Hot Springs Hike

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Hot Spring · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Strawberry Park's hot springs and pools are open year round, and are a must for all Steamboat visitors. Be sure to make reservations in advance, however, as spots book up quickly all year long. This trail can be an out-and-back from the Mad Creek trailhead, or as a one-way with a shuttle via The Hot Springs Shuttle company.

It's also possible to drive to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, but hiking this pleasant trail is the preferred method by many. Just know that the trail can be quite hot on summer days. Additionally, it melts out quickly in the spring.

Park at the Mad Creek trailhead off Route 129 heading north out of town. After parking, run back south on the road for about a quarter of a mile, and look for a wide dirt road after a sign that says, "Private Property." Take this dirt road to a junction, and veer left running northeast on the road. After 0.3 miles, there will be a wooden sign marking the start of the Hot Springs Trail.

The trail itself winds into the woods at a moderate grade and then follows Hot Springs Creek. About 3 miles from the start on the dirt road, you'll see the boulder and wooden welcome signs announcing the entrance of Strawberry Park. Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail, but if you plan on staying to soak, leave your four-legged friends at home—they're not allowed into Strawberry Park.