Pinkerton Hot Springs: A Colorful Roadside Attraction

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Discover the vibrant colors and history of Pinkerton Hot Springs, a unique and easily accessible roadside attraction near Durango, Colorado.

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Pinkerton Hot Springs

Pinkerton Hot Springs, located just north of Durango, Colorado, is a unique roadside attraction featuring a vibrant, mineral-rich travertine mound. The springs, named after early settler James Pinkerton, were once part of a 19th-century health spa and continue to draw visitors with their colorful geological formations and historical significance.

A brief summary to Pinkerton Hot Springs

35554 US-550, Durango, Colorado, 81301, US

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Be cautious when parking, as the pull-off area is directly off the highway.
Visit during the summer for the most vivid colors or in the winter for a snowy backdrop.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Durango, the San Juan National Forest, or Purgatory Resort.

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Getting There

Driving

Pinkerton Hot Springs is located directly off U.S. Highway 550, approximately 15 miles north of Durango. From Durango, head north on Highway 550. The springs will be on the west side of the highway. Look for the distinct, colorful travertine mound. There is a pull-off area for parking. Be cautious when pulling off the highway.

Discover more about Pinkerton Hot Springs

Pinkerton Hot Springs is a striking natural landmark located along U.S. Highway 550, about 15 miles north of Durango, Colorado. This roadside attraction is characterized by a colorful mound of travertine rock formed by mineral-rich water. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow are created by minerals such as iron and sulfur, making it a popular spot for photographers and travelers. The springs are named after James Pinkerton, who settled in the area in the 1870s. Pinkerton recognized the potential of the warm, mineral-rich waters and established a health spa in the late 19th century. The resort included a swimming pool and offered visitors a chance to bathe in the therapeutic waters. Though the original spa burned down, the springs remain a point of interest, offering a glimpse into the area's history. The hot springs are a result of groundwater percolating through the earth, coming into contact with hot mineralized rocks deep below. The water emerges at a temperature between 95 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, depositing minerals that create the colorful travertine formations. Visitors can stop and admire the natural beauty, and even dip their hands in the warm water. Today, Pinkerton Hot Springs is easily accessible and free to visit. It serves as a unique rest stop for those traveling the scenic Million Dollar Highway. While there are no amenities on-site, its proximity to Durango and other attractions makes it a worthwhile destination for a quick stop and photo opportunity.