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.
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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
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.
| Allington Inn & Suites | Comfortable Inn in Kremmling, with family rooms, fitness center, and indoor swimming pool. |
| Near Colorado River Kremmling Home | Well outfitted, clean, and comfortable 3 bedroom house with mountain views |
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
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I was expecting snow. I’ve been to a hot spring, but in a resort. I prefer a more regulated environment.
Radium hot springs isn’t for everyone. Colorado has so many more regulated hot springs to enjoy. Mount Princeton Hot Springs would be a great one to try.
I have learnt so much from this guide. Visiting the springs looks like an amazing opportunity.
Thank you for the feedback!
I’ve learned so much reading this article! And the winter hiking gear list is super helpful – thank you 🙂
Thank you for the feedback.
I have a passion for hot springs and thermal pools, so I would be interested in visiting Radium Hot Springs when I have the opportunity. Thank you for providing such thorough information!
Thank you for the feedback!
Thank you for sharing this! It sounds like a beautiful, relaxing spot, and I love that it’s got a river view.
The view at the springs and on the way down is amazing!
We love to visit hot springs so would definitely visit the Radium Hot Springs when we get to Colorado. Thanks for the tips for parking. And to know that it is an undeveloped spot. But I usually prefer “hot” to “warm” springs.
For true hot springs, you might visit Strawberry Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Hot Sulphur Springs, or Mt. Princeton Hot Springs (among others).
Was that your dog looking down on the water??? Too cute! I love to take my golden retriever on all my visits to parks.
Yes, our Goldendoodle. He has to stay up top since he couldn’t scramble down the last little rocky stretch.
What an incredible place. I’ve never even heard of this and now I feel like I have to go.
Hope you can visit.
This looks like such a unique winter experience!
It is, hope you can experience it sometime!
Such a great guide to add on my bucket list! Thank you for a thorough guide which will be my go to when I visit the Colorado!
Hope you’re able to visit when you get to Colorado.
As someone who lives in New England, I didn’t even know there were spots like this that are undeveloped. I really need to make my way to Colorado soon. Great tips to help with safety, and good to know it’s definitely not a beginner-friendly winter hike.
It is fun to find these undeveloped spots. There are a number of other ones in the state, like Penny Hot Springs near Redstone.
I’ve always wanted to experience a natural hot springs – especially in the winter. The only potential issue is the hike to get there. I do winter hiking and have poles and spikes, but I can still see myself getting injured scuttling down the rocks lol.
You need to be careful on the last scramble, though it was not too challenging using poles or your hands to keep your balance.
A perfect guide to these hot springs. I love plaves that feel less ‘touched’ even if they’re quite crowded. Interesting about how the temperatures vary, although it makes sense.
I remember visiting hot springs in Bali and it felt lile being in a hot bath
It is interesting how the water mixes and causes the temperature to fluctuate. I prefer hot springs like this that aren’t too hot.
I lived in Colorado for years and didn’t know about this spot. It looks like a fun place to take a dip in the beautiful Colorado countryside. It also reminds me a bit of the boiling river in Yellowstone because of how the two rivers, one hot and one cold, combine. Thanks for sharing!
Hope you can give Radium Hot Springs a try if you make it back to Colorado.
Thanks for sharing, this hike looks amazing with great views 🙂
Thank you for the feedback!
Ugh, this just sounds perfect right now! Thank you for writing this out! Definitely going to check out on my next trip out to Colorado!
Hope you can explore this out of the way hot springs!
radium hotsprings look amazing! would love to visit
Hope you have a chance to visit!