Artful artesians: Seven soothing summer soaks

From primitive to posh, soaking in mineral waters is a universal human pleasure. Though the Romans indulged in elaboratemarble bathhouses, the Utes revered our region’s natural springs as sacred places of healing and communion.

Colorado is blessed with an abundance of spots to strip off the day, settle in and rejuvenate in soothing waters. Many hot springs resorts are guests-only (if you want over-the-top European luxury, book a stay at Dunton, outside of Dolores, at 970-882-4800 or duntonhotsprings.com). But here are seven that are open to the public— even if the publicmay have quite a hike to get to some of them. Last one in’s a sulphur-smelling egg!

Avalanche Ranch

Just 12 miles from Carbondale in the Crystal River Valley, Avalanche Ranch offers three serenely landscaped soaking pools that look out over the majesty of Mount Sopris. Guests at the ranch’s cabins and quirky caravan wagons have 24-hour access. Day visitors are welcome but must reserve in advance.

The temperatures range from 92 to 104 degrees, and the largest of the pools features a cascading waterfall and grotto. The 36-acre ranch also offers yoga and massage, as well as a red-barn antique store with souvenirs, crafts and locally gathered honey.

After your soak, take a quick drive down to check out the tiny town of Marble, where the white stone covering thewashington Monument was quarried.

12863 Colorado 133, Redstone, 970-963-2846, avalancheranch.com

415 East Sixth St., Glenwood Springs, 970-947-2955, hotspringspool.com