There really are hot springs in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.  How about –  the world’ largest hot spring?  Thus it is called “ Great Hot Springs”  When you drive past the springs as you come into town – phew-eee. (As in – hold your nose stinky.)  The smell of the minerals is STRONG.  The odor reminded me of driving through Big Springs, Texas – or any other refinery town for that matter – and smelling sulphur.  I read where the word “pagosa” is Ute for “stinking water”.  No Jive!  But it is those stinky minerals in the springs that are reported to heal and make one feel wonderful.

Pagosa Springs has been known for centuries as various Native American tribes came to the springs to heal and refresh themselves. Historians report that the native would spread themselves with the rich mineral mud since the waters were too hot (like 144F degrees hot) for bathing.  (Pagosa Springs Official Visitor Guide)

Friend Betty wants to get into the springs and soak.  Ever-Lovin’ says there is no way he is getting in that stinky water, and Bob and I are on the fence – not wanting to let Betty down on what she wants to do. The Pagosa “Mother-Lode” spring made it into the Guinness Book of World Records last year as the deepest springs in the world.  They dropped a 1002 foot plumb line down into the spring, and it didn’t hit bottom. Thus they won the Official World’s Record.  At another time, a 2500 foot plumb line was dropped into the spring, and it also did not hit bottom.  At this time, no one knows how deep the springs are.

This mineral dome has grown over many years.  Ever-Lovin’ looks like he is trying to keep the smell out of his nostrils.   This little dome “burps” every so often.  If you look closely, you can see the steam.

Three locations in Pagosa offer pools for soaking.  The various pool’s temperatures range from hot to hotter (89F to 110F degrees).  It is suggested you soak in the springs for several hours for the best results.  If you don’t want to soak in the springs, there are swimming pools and the San Juan river to enjoy.

The locals would rather refer to the springs as “healing waters”, and many visitors from around the world would agree.  Thousands come each year to Pagosa Springs to be soothed and be healed.

Blessings to you and yours,

It is strange, but since we have been here a few days, I no longer notice the smell.  Hopefully Betty will experiences smoothing relief and healing.