Why Orvis Hot Springs Doesn't Stink
Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway is blessed with naturally flowing lithium-based hot spring water that does not smell like sulphur. The Tabagueche Indians, led by Chief Ouray, soaked in the hot springs of the Uncompaghre river valley for its calming affects as well as medical healing for such ailments as rheumatoid arthritis. Today the soothing waters of Orvis Hot Springs are still sacred to our guests.
There are several sources of water at Orvis Hot Springs. Each has a different mineral content, which is why the water can look and feel different from the last time you were here. You can find out more about the different minerals on the Orvis website.
Water naturally flows through underwater veins and into the main outdoor Pond. Hot water naturally fills the pond and can be felt by digging your toes in the gravel at the bottom. There is a rock bench under the water, next to the Plunge (cool in summer, hot in winter). Under the bench is a cave. The cave is the biggest outlet from the underground vein, giving the pond the most volume of water. Rising water tables will increase the flow of this water, which will maintain a hotter pond temperature.