Saguache County Press Kit
Located in the San Luis Valley, Saguache County is ringed by stunning snow-capped peaks. The wide valley at the base of them provides prime land for ranching and agriculture, while the mountainous terrain caters to outdoor recreation and relaxation. This southwest corner of the state beckons rock climbers, campers, hikers and off-road adventurers of all kinds. In addition to an abundance of rugged 14,000-foot peaks, one of the most distinctive geological features in the area is Great Sand Dunes National Park where visitors can more easily ascend the tallest dune in North America (just 750-feet high)! After nightfall, the scenery is no less spectacular. With little light pollution, much of Saguache County is a designated international dark sky area. In other words, the stargazing is outstanding. In town, visitors will find all they need for a comfortable and interesting stay including restaurants, shops and a historical museum. For those attracted to the region’s prolific hot springs, four unique geothermal properties offer travelers the opportunity to experience the healing mineral waters.
Cities: Moffat, Villa Grove, Hooper, Alamosa
Elevation: 6,512’ above sea level
Saguache County Tourism
P.O. Box 100
Saguache, CO 81149
719-587-1900
bgerade@saguachecounty-co.gov
Hot Springs
Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa & Event Center
28640 CR 58 EE
Moffat, CO 81143
719-256-4328
www.joyfuljourneyhotsprings.com
Overview: Joyful Journey Hot Springs is located in the San Luis Valley between Salida and Alamosa along Scenic Highway 17. Naturally, super-heated waters are pleasantly odor-free. Native Americans, Spanish explorers and the region’s early settlers all partook in the healing waters and today’s visitors can as well. Joyful Journeys features mineral spring pools, spa services, unique lodging and wellness classes. The event center and setting are also ideal for gatherings, meetings and retreats.
Amenities: Joyful Journey Hot Springs is open daily. Day guests are welcome from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday – Wednesday; and 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday – Sunday. Overnight guests may soak from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Pools: The resort features three hot springs pools. The coolest is a comfortable 98˚. The warmest is a toasty 108˚F and it is also the one designated as the “quiet pool.” Two 104˚ Jacuzzi pools add even more variety to the hydrotherapy experience.
Spa: Therapeutic specialties include a full menu of massage services, as well as reflexology treatments and body scrubs.
Activities & Events: Joyful Journeys offers yoga and other classes, as well as meeting space facilities to join in a scheduled retreat or host your own event.
Lodging: There are many ways to enjoy an overnight stay at Joyful Journeys Hot Springs. Traditional guest room lodging is one option. Visitors can also rent a two-bedroom casita, stay in a yurt, a tipi or camp. The campground offers sites with and without electric hookups. Along with accommodations, overnight guests are treated to a complimentary breakfast and dinner with their stay.
Sand Dunes Recreation
1991 County Road 63
Hooper, CO 81136
719-378-2807
www.sanddunespool.com
Overview: An oasis in the middle of the San Luis Valley, Sand Dunes Recreation is a hot springs haven that offers both family fun and adult relaxation. Sand Dunes Recreation is a welcoming place for people of all ages. A large hot springs pool is a favorite for parents and children, while The Greenhouse filled with tropical plants, indoor hot springs, a sauna, food and beverage services caters to those over 21. Other highlights include a family restaurant, picnicking areas, a gift shop and water toy rentals. For lodging, Sand Dunes offers on-site camping and cabins, as well as nearby home rentals.
Amenities: Sand Dunes Recreation’s hours vary according to season. The facility is closed on Thursdays for cleaning throughout the year. From March 1 to Nov. 30, hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily; and, Dec. 1 to Feb. 28, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the Sand Dunes website for more details.
Pools: The main pool is spacious and maintained at a comfy 98˚F year-round. The pool is partially enclosed at one end to shelter the baby pool provide protection from the elements. The therapy pool fluctuating between 105˚ and 107˚F is also located beneath the enclosure. For an adults-only experience, The Greenhouse features four soaking pools, a sauna and tropical gardens interspersed with patios for relaxing and socializing.
Dining: The Mile Deep Grille is located near the main pool and offers a delicious menu with something to satisfy all tastes. The Steel Box Bar inside The Greenhouse dishes small plates, beer and wine.
Lodging: Sand Dunes Recreation offers glamping cabins, RV sites with hookups and tent camping sites. The Hooper Hacienda can accommodate up to 10 people. There are also several short-term home rentals available in nearby Alamosa.
Splashland Hot Springs Swimming Pool
5895 Highway 17
Alamosa, CO 81101a
719-589-6258
Facebook
Overview: Located in Alamosa, Splashland features a historic geothermal swimming pool. It has been a local activity destination since the 1950s. Family-friendly, the hot springs was recently remodeled and upgraded with modern conveniences. The pools are of moderate temperature making them ideal for swimming, playing, splashing or just relaxing.
Amenities: Splashland Hot Springs is open seasonally, during the warm weather months. Hours of operation are weather dependent, especially in spring and fall. The facility is closed in the winter. For the most up-to-date information, check Splashland’s Facebook page.
Events: The hot spring hosts the annual Splashland Triathlon held in mid-October. It is a major draw for competitive athletes and part of the Great Southwest Triathlon Series which includes races in Colorado and New Mexico.
Orient Land Trust & Valley View Hot Springs
P.O. Box 65
Villa Grove, CO 81155
www.olt.org
info@olt.org
Overview: Visitors can immerse themselves in nature and in the geothermal springs at this off-the-beaten-path property. The non-profit land trust is dedicated to the preservation of the hot springs and its diverse “viewshed.” The property includes a working cattle ranch, historic buildings, dark sky spaces, as well as clothing optional hot spring pools and ponds. The resort offers limited rustic-style accommodations and year-round camping.
Amenities: Reservations are required. Day pass admission is from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check in is before 6 p.m. Overnight guests are welcome as early as 11 a.m. but accommodations may not be available until 4 p.m.
Pools: Home to some of the most private and unusual soaking experiences in Colorado. Visitors to Valley View Hot Springs can take the waters in a variety of settings including ponds, pools and hot tubs. The property also boasts a world-renowned sauna designed with a spacious tub of cool water directly below its benches and powered entirely by hydroelectric energy!
Spa. Bodywork, massage and reflexology services are available by appointment.
Lodging: Orient Land Trust/Valley View Hot Springs offers lodging in its historic Oak House Community Lodge. Bedding is not provided. Guests should bring their own bedding or sleeping bag. Tent and RV camping provide additional options for overnighting.