Colorado Tops USA TODAY Hot Springs Rankings

Colorado’s summer scene highlights outdoor dining and scenic patios across cities such as Colorado Springs and Castle Rock, while new tools like the Marlow marmot app and a Trails and Open Space Coalition project map 100+ parks and trails to help visitors find quieter spots and niche activities. The state also hosts curated outdoor events and competitions, including intro orienteering at state parks, paddleboard races, classic cycling ascents up Pikes Peak, and sunrise-sunset summit access. Mountain biking remains a focal point, with popular routes in Buffalo Creek and Crested Butte and other destinations across the state. Across the country, there is a broader trend toward diverse camping experiences and adventure travel, with Durango and nearby areas offering extensive trails, hot springs, and scenic routes. Beyond Colorado, private campsites and lakefront options are highlighted as part of a growing appetite for off-the-beaten-path experiences and shoulder-season travel. The piece positions Colorado as a leading destination for hot springs within a wider national context of outdoor recreation.