Pinkerton Hot Springs — Attraction in Four Corners States

Worth the stop! We shot a 360 image of this roadside attraction and were curious to learn more. After some research, this is what we learned:

In the early 1800s, Jame Pinkerton built a resort centered around hot springs that touted miraculous healing properties. Located along the Million Dollar Highway just 13 miles north of Durango, tourists would travel to the famous Pinkerton Resort to drink and swim in the water for health and relaxation. The lodge also served as a speakeasy during the prohibition in the 1920s. Sadly, the resort burned down three times. Marilyn Monroe apparently visited just before the last and final fire.

The hot spring water at this roadside attraction is natural, but the rock formation was built by the Colorado Department of Transportation to help divert the springs from the opposite side of the road. Natural Hot Springs are formed from water seeping into deep fractures thousands of feet in the earth, where it's heated up then returns to the top, creating hot springs up to...

This is a colorful attraction directly off the side of the road which is interesting to spend 10-15 minutes photographing. While there are natural hot springs at this location, my understanding is that the Colorado Dept. of Transportation installed a discharge pipe and stacked the rocks we see today around the year 2000. It makes for an interesting mound, and it is impressive to see the amount of mineral deposit and colorization in that limited amount of time. There is also some history regarding the discovery of the original springs and the monetization of the location in the late 1800's. The parking is directly off 550 and there are no charges or fees or other accommodations at the site. Also, the water at my visit was lukewarm at best so safe for the kids and others to touch without worry. As always, be safe and watch for the temperature changes and slippery rocks for example, but worth a quick stop to...

Pinkerton Hot Springs is a beautiful roadside stop just outside of Durango, Colorado. If you're expecting a hot spring for swimming or soaking, this isn't the place—but it’s still a unique and scenic spot worth visiting!

You’ll find colorful mineral formations and a small flow of warm water where you can dip your feet and take a relaxing break. The contrast of the orange, red, and white minerals against the natural landscape is stunning and makes for great photos.

There’s no admission fee, and it’s conveniently located right off Highway 550, so it's a perfect short stop to stretch your legs, snap a few pictures, and enjoy nature. Just remember there are no restrooms or facilities—it's a quick scenic pull-off, not a developed hot spring resort.

Definitely worth a 5-10 minute visit if you're driving...