Denver is famous for its striking mountain scenery, active outdoor scene, and a surprising number of ways to unwind after a day of exploring. While the city itself offers some fantastic options, the true magic happens just outside its limits—where natural hot springs and mountain retreats beckon. Among the standout experiences, the Denver Beer Spa offers a playful twist on wellness with craft beer-infused baths, while nearby hot springs let you soak in therapeutic waters amid Colorado’s rugged landscape. We particularly love the Denver Beer Spa for its inventive approach to relaxation—perfect for couples or anyone eager to combine self-care with a good brew.
For those craving outdoor adventure mixed with soothing waters, the hot springs excursions are hard to beat. Whether you opt for a birding hike to St. Mary’s Glacier or a full-day tour through Colorado’s high country, these experiences marry nature with relaxation. If mountain scenery and physical activity are your priorities, the High Country Birding Hike and Hot Spring or the Small Group Mount Evans & Hot Springs Day Tour are excellent choices. For a truly personalized adventure, the Private tour hiking to Saint Mary’s Glacier offers flexibility and a tailored experience.
1. Denver Beer Spa: Colorado’s Most Unique Spa Experience For Two
At number one, the Denver Beer Spa stands out for its one-of-a-kind approach to relaxation. This isn’t your typical spa day—it’s a crafted experience that combines self-care with Colorado’s craft beer culture. You’ll relax in a private suite that features a beer-inspired soak—yes, bathing in ingredients used to brew beer. The experience also includes an infrared sauna and rain shower, all while you sip on local craft brews or non-alcoholic beverages. This spa is particularly popular because it appeals to beer lovers and wellness seekers alike, creating a cozy, upscale environment with a laid-back vibe.
What makes this experience truly unique is the combination of wellness and craftsmanship. The beer bath uses fresh ingredients like hops and barley, which are believed to have skin-calming properties. The 3-hour session, priced at $199 per group (up to 2 people), offers good value considering the exclusivity and quality. Reviewers highlight how relaxing and fun it is, with one describing it as “the perfect blend of upscale spa and laid-back chill—plus, beer.” This tour is perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to combine self-care with a playful twist.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a novel, memorable way to unwind that combines Colorado’s iconic craft beer scene with wellness, this is your top pick.
2. Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak from Denver
At number two, this tour offers a full day of outdoor exploration coupled with relaxation. Starting with a naturalist-guided hike through pristine spruce-fir forests, you’ll visit a lake and an active glacier, enjoying Colorado’s high-altitude ecology. The highlight is the chance to learn about wildlife and subalpine ecosystems from an expert guide, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. After the hike, you’ll enjoy a soak in a therapeutic natural hot spring in Idaho Springs, soaking away your fatigue in mineral-rich waters.
This tour, priced at $380 per person and lasting around 8 hours, balances outdoor activity with comfort. The hike to the glacier is a key feature, offering both scenic views and a physical challenge that’s suitable for most active travelers. The hot spring visit provides a perfect wind-down, especially after a day of walking. Since the experience includes a naturalist guide, expect engaging commentary and a chance to deepen your understanding of Colorado’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine wildlife, mountain scenery, and a relaxing soak in one seamless day.
3. High Country Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak from Denver
Ranking third, this guided birding hike delivers a focused look at Colorado’s high-altitude birdlife. Led by a naturalist, you’ll traverse a moderately challenging trail through spruce-fir forests, with opportunities to spot species like Pine Marten, Snowshoe Hare, and Clark’s Nutcracker. The hike, less than two miles round trip, is designed to be accessible while still invigorating at high elevation. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a snack and hot drink while soaking in the natural beauty of the mountains.
The tour is approximately 6-8 hours and costs $275 per person. It appeals to travelers interested in ecology, birdwatching, and mountain scenery. The highlight is reaching St. Mary’s Glacier, where you’ll hike around the lake and enjoy panoramic views, then descend to Idaho Springs for a soak. The guide’s local knowledge makes this experience particularly rewarding.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and birding enthusiasts who want a manageable hike combined with a soothing hot spring experience.
4. From Denver: Small Group Mount Evans & Hot Springs Day Tour
This tour offers a full day of mountain sightseeing and relaxation, priced at $296 per person. It includes visits to Red Rocks Park for spectacular views and the world-famous amphitheater, as well as a drive along the highest paved road in North America up to Mount Evans. The stop at Echo Lake and Summit Lake offers incredible photo opportunities, with the rugged peaks as your backdrop.
The highlight is unwinding in Indian Hot Springs, where you can relax in mineral waters that are reputed to have healing properties. The tour is typically a small group, making for a more personalized experience, and includes plenty of scenic stops and historical info.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want a balance of mountain scenery, iconic Colorado sights, and a relaxing soak after a day of sightseeing.
$296 per person
5. Private tour hiking to Saint Mary’s Glacier, Red Rock and Hot Springs
For those seeking a bespoke experience, this private tour offers flexibility and personalized attention. Starting at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, you’ll take in the famous crimson rocks and learn their stories. Then, a hiking adventure takes you up to Saint Mary’s Glacier, where you can relax and explore around the icy lake. Afterward, the tour returns to Idaho Springs for a soak in hot springs.
At $475 per person, this tour is more expensive but ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience. The guide has over four years of Colorado tour experience and uses a luxury SUV to ensure comfort. The itinerary is customizable, making it perfect for active families or groups with specific interests.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a private, flexible mountain adventure that combines iconic sights with mountain soaking.
$475.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Spa & Hot Springs Experience
When selecting the best hot springs or spa experience in Denver, consider your budget, the type of adventure you crave, and your fitness level. If you’re after something fun and unconventional, the Denver Beer Spa offers a playful self-care option. For outdoor lovers, the Birding Hike and Hot Spring or the High Country Birding Hike make excellent day trips. If mountain scenery and scenic drives are your priorities, the Mount Evans & Hot Springs Tour will suit you well. For a bespoke experience, the Private Glacier Hike and Hot Springs lets you tailor your day.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, when Colorado’s outdoor spots fill up quickly. Consider the amount of physical activity you’re comfortable with and whether you prefer guided or private options.
To sum it up, Denver and its surroundings offer everything from quirky craft beer baths to mountain hot springs with breathtaking views. For relaxed, playful experiences, the Denver Beer Spa is unmatched. For those wanting outdoor adventure combined with natural waters, the high country tours deliver scenic beauty and physical activity. Whether you prefer a private, customized day or a guided group trip, there’s a hot springs or spa experience in Denver suited for your style. Be sure to book early so you don’t miss out on these memorable ways to unwind in Colorado.