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Black Sulphur Spring: A Glimpse into Steamboat's Past

Discover the unique, dark waters of Black Sulphur Spring, a key landmark in Steamboat Springs' rich history and geological tapestry.

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Black Sulphur Spring, located in downtown Steamboat Springs, offers a unique glimpse into the area's geological history. Known for its inky black water, the spring's distinct color comes from hydrogen sulfide transforming into sulphur. It's a quick and intriguing stop on a tour of Steamboat's mineral springs.

A brief summary to Black Sulphur Spring

  • 1001 13th St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487, US

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Yampa River Core Trail for scenic views.
  • Visit the Tread of Pioneers Museum to learn more about the history of Steamboat Springs and its mineral springs.
  • Note the distinct sulphur smell, a natural characteristic of the spring.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Black Sulphur Spring is located downtown at 1001 13th St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, next to the Yampa River and near the railroad tracks. From Lincoln Avenue, the main street, walk north towards the river. The spring is easily accessible on foot as part of the downtown mineral springs walking tour. No costs are associated with walking to the spring.

  • Public Transport

    Steamboat Springs offers a free bus system (Steamboat Springs Transit or SST) that runs throughout the town. Check the SST schedule for the nearest bus stop to your location and to Black Sulphur Spring. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions to the spring. There is no cost to ride the SST.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Steamboat Springs, though availability may be limited. A short taxi ride from most locations in downtown Steamboat Springs to Black Sulphur Spring will likely cost between $10 and $20, depending on the distance and demand. Confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your ride.

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Discover more about Black Sulphur Spring

Black Sulphur Spring is one of several mineral springs found in downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Its easily accessible location makes it a popular stop for those exploring the town's unique geological features. The spring's most notable characteristic is its dark, almost black water, a result of hydrogen sulfide converting to sulphur. Historically, the mineral springs of Steamboat Springs, numbering around 150, drew visitors seeking their therapeutic properties. The Ute tribe considered these springs sacred, valuing them for physical and spiritual healing. In the early 1900s, the arrival of the railroad transformed Steamboat Springs into a spa town, further popularizing the springs as a tourist destination. Black Sulphur Spring stands near the Yampa River and the railroad tracks, a short distance from Steamboat Spring, which gave the town its name. While not suitable for bathing, Black Sulphur Spring offers an interesting visual contrast to the other springs in the area. The nearby Steamboat Spring was once a geyser that erupted up to 14 feet in the air, with a chugging sound that reminded early French trappers of a steamboat. Unfortunately, the construction of the railroad in 1908 disrupted this activity. Today, visitors can still see the springs and learn about their history through interpretive signage installed by the city.

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