Radium Hot Springs Colorado Winter: A Local Soak Guide

Visiting Radium Hot Springs Colorado in winter is a true Colorado adventure. Unlike a visit to better known Colorado hot springs, these primitive hot springs are remote, rugged, and refreshingly undeveloped. They’re tucked into a dramatic canyon along the Colorado River, rewarding winter visitors with steamy water, snowy cliffs, and a strong sense that you’ve earned your soak. This guide covers how to visit Radium Hot Springs Colorado in winter, including location, where to park, best ways to hike to the springs, what to expect at the pools (including water temperature), the radiation question, what to bring, and where to stay and eat nearby.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We recommend products we have personally used or verified. Read the full disclosure here.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?
Reserve your Colorado car rental today!
Here is the best Colorado River day tour!
Find the top Kremmling area hotels!
Don’t forget to bring along a day pack for hiking, a filtered water bottle, a First aid kit, micro-spikes, trekking poles, and trail walking shoes!

Pin this for later!

Where are Radium Hot Springs in Colorado?

Radium Hot Springs (often called Radium Warm Springs) are located along the Colorado River in Grand County, roughly between Kremmling and State Bridge. This is a remote stretch of Colorado, especially in winter, so plan for limited services, spotty cell signal, and changing road conditions. The trough road, which leads to Radium, is a packed gravel road. While it does get plowed, it is a lower priority road than the paved highways.

Where to park for Radium Hot Springs (important in winter)

Access and parking are often misunderstood, and it’s especially important to follow current guidance in winter.

• Do not park along Radium Road. The road is narrow and parking is not permitted.
• Instead take the Trough Road to Warm Springs Road.
• Park at the designated parking area/trailhead at the end of Warm Springs Road, then hike from there.
• There are primitive restrooms at the trailhead. During our recent winter visit, one of the two restrooms was locked, the other remained open for visitors.

After snowfall, the final approach can be slow or snow-packed. High clearance, all wheel drive cars with good winter tires, and flexibility are key.

What is the hike to Radium Hot Springs like in winter?

The hike is short but not easy, particularly in icy conditions.

What to expect

• Roughly 1.5 miles round trip (loop trail). This can be done as an out-and-back as well.
• Easier way down: From the parking lot, follow the path straight ahead (more gradual slope, approximately 1 mile to the springs).
• Shorter and steeper way down: The trail to the right is the more direct, though quite steep (and muddy during our last visit). If there is snow on the ground, this can be quite slick.
• Rocky, uneven trail with exposure in places. It can be helpful to bring trekking poles and microspikes (snow shoes if the snow is deeper).
• Regardless of which direction you walk, you’ll need to climb down a short rock scramble near the springs.

Winter-Specific Challenges

• Ice, especially on shaded sections
• Slick rock near the river
• Snow-covered trails
• Short daylight hours

Pro Tip: micro-spikes to attach to your shoes are essential, and trekking poles are highly recommended, especially for the downhill. Refer to our winter hiking gear checklist for more winter essentials.

What to expect at Radium Hot Springs

Radium is a primitive, undeveloped soaking spot. Don’t expect to find facilities, changing rooms, or bathrooms (except at the trailhead). The pool itself is a rock-lined soaking pool tucked against the canyon wall, maintained informally by visitors over time. In winter, the contrast of hot water, cold air, and snow-covered cliffs is the main draw.

Crowds are usually lighter in winter than summer, but weekends can still be busy on mild days. There was one other small group there on our recent visit (on their way back from Steamboat Springs to Denver).

Water temperature at Radium Hot Springs in winter

The water temperature varies depending on river flow.

• The hot spring produces warm water, often in the upper 90s°F (32+ °C). Water from the Colorado River mixes with the hot water, which often cools the soaking pool quite a bit. The water has been in the 80’s °F (27+°C) during our winter visits.
• Many winter visitors describe the pool as lukewarm to pleasantly warm, rather than “hot”.

On a calm, sunny winter day it can feel great; on a windy day, it may feel cooler than expected. Go in with flexible expectations, and try to visit on the nicest day possible.

Pro Tip: Be sure to bring a change of clothes, layers, and a warm hat and gloves.

Do Radium Hot Springs have unsafe radiation levels?

This is a common question because of the name.

• Radium is a naturally occurring element that can be present in rocks and groundwater.
• There is no clear, publicly posted evidence showing dangerous radiation exposure from soaking at Radium Hot Springs in Colorado. For most visitors, occasional soaking is considered low risk.
• Much of the online confusion comes from mixing up this location with Radium Hot Springs in British Columbia, which is a different site entirely.

Practical safety guidance

• Do not drink the water
• Treat this as a short recreational soak.
• If you have specific medical concerns, consider choosing a regulated hot springs resort instead.

As with any undeveloped hot spring, conditions can change and visitors should use their own judgment and assume responsibility for their safety when choosing to visit or soak.

What to bring for Radium Hot Springs Colorado in Winter

Keep in mind that this is not a developed hot springs. Be prepared by bringing winter hiking gear, a change of clothes, as well as a towel and clothes you'll soak in.

Winter Hiking Gear

• Micro-spikes or traction if there is snow or ice on the ground (snowshoes if deeper snow).
• Insulated layers and a windproof shell
• Waterproof or water-resistant boots
• Headlamp or flashlight (depending on time of day)
• Warm hat, gloves
• Trekking poles
• Day pack or dry bag for carrying your extra clothes, water, and snacks
• Drinking water and snacks
• Hand warmers for after the soak
• A trash bag (pack everything out)

Gear for Your Soak

• Bathing suit
• Towel
• Changing poncho or oversized parka

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe - Women's Quarry/Black/Legion Blue

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles - Carbon Fiber Walking or Hiking Sticks with Quick Adjustable Locks (Set of 2),Green

Kahtoola EXOspikes Footwear Traction for Winter Hiking & Running in Snow, Ice & Rocky Terrain - Blue - X-Large

THE NORTH FACE Women's Apex Insulated Etip Glove | Touchscreen Compatible, Heatseeker Insulation, Water Repellent Finish

Energizer HDL40 LED Headlamp, 500 Lumen, IPX7 Waterproof, Multi-Colored Headlamp, Hands-Free Light, Batteries Included

Where to Stay Near Radium Hot Springs Colorado in Winter

Kremmling is the closest and most practical winter base, though you may find closer lodging around Radium.

If you prefer more amenities, dining options, or backup activities, consider staying in Steamboat Springs or Winter Park and driving in for the soak.

Kremmling is small but has solid pre- and post-soak food options. Be sure to stop at Big Shooter Coffee for coffee, pastries, and ice cream.

Final Winter tips for Radium Hot Springs Colorado

• Go midday for warmer temperatures and better light.
• Check weather and road conditions before committing to your visit.
• Be conservative. If the trail is icy or muddy, be sure you're equipped for this. This is not a beginner winter hike.
• Pack out everything you bring.

Colorado Planning Resources

Read more Colorado posts.

• Car Rental Tips for Your Colorado Ski Vacation
• 15 Unique Things to Do in Ouray, the Switzerland of America
• Top Things to Do in Steamboat Other than Skiing
• Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter
• Epic 2-Day Itinerary Glenwood Springs
• Best Places to Visit in Colorado in the Summer
• Top Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado
• Denver to Crested Butte Road Trip
• A Perfect Grand Lake Day Trip

If you enjoyed this post, pin it for later!