Colorado Hot Springs Packing Checklist

Essentials for any spring, plus add-ons for winter and backcountry trips

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Essentials — every trip

• Swimsuit (plus a spare)
• Towel or quick-dry microfiber towel
• Water bottle — 32 oz or larger
• Water shoes or grippy sport sandals
• Mineral sunscreen + SPF lip balm
• Change of clothes and underwear
• Bag for wet swimsuit and towel
• Cash and card for entry fees

Food & hydration

• Salty snacks (trail mix, jerky, chips)
• Electrolyte drink mix or tablets
• Substantial snacks for longer days
• Cooler + ice (summer)

Clothing & layers

• Light layers + sun hat + sunglasses (summer)
• Rain shell — July/August afternoon storms (summer)
• Insulated coat, beanie, gloves (winter)
• Waterproof slip-on sandals or boots (winter)
• Microspikes for icy trail approaches (winter)
• Flip-flops for locker rooms

Backcountry add-ons — hike-in & camping springs

• Tent, rainfly, stakes
• Sleeping bag rated 20–30°F
• Sleeping pad
• Camp stove + meals + extra snacks
• Headlamp (red-light mode for shared pools)
• Water filter
• Toilet kit: trowel or WAG bag, TP, hand sanitizer
• Bear-resistant food storage where required
• Offline maps or GPS
• First aid kit

Reminders: No glass anywhere. Alternate soaks with water — skip alcohol. Apply sunscreen well before arrival; lotions and oils clog filters and pollute natural pools. Pack out everything you pack in.