Conundrum Hot Springs

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Conundrum Hot Springs
Conundrum Soak (8088830824).jpg
LocationWilderness area of White River National Forest
Coordinates39°00′43″N 106°53′28″W / 39.012°N 106.891°W / 39.012; -106.891Coordinates: 39°00′43″N 106°53′28″W / 39.012°N 106.891°W / 39.012; -106.891
Elevation11,200
Typegeothermal
Temperature120°F

Conundrum Hot Springs is a geothermal spring in a remote section of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area of the White River National Forest in Colorado Rocky Mountains.[1][2][3][4]

The hot mineral water collects in existing craters as well as several primitive rock-lined soaking pools that have been dug out nearby.[5]

Conundrum hot springs are the among the highest in altitude in the United States. The springs are located in a scenic setting, with views of mountains, avalanche chutes and waterfalls. The larger soaking pools can fit ten or more people. They are approximately 3-feet deep.[5]

In recent years there have been problems at the springs with human feces being left by hikers, campers and spring users which can contaminate the water with pathogens. The forest service is asking that people pack it out on their return hike.[6]

Water profile[]

The hot mineral water emerges from the ground at 120 °F.[2] The temperature of the soaking pools are approximately 100 °F.

See also[]

References[]

  1. ^ Berry, George W.; Grim, Paul J.; Ikelman, Joy A. (1980). Thermal Spring List for the United States. Boulder, Colorardo: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
  2. ^ a b Gersh-Young, Marjorie (2011). Hot Springs and Hot Pools in the Southwest. Santa Cruz, California: Aqua Thermal. p. 65. ISBN 978-1-890880-09-5.
  3. ^ "Conundrum Hot Springs - Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness". Recreation.gov. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
  4. ^ "Conundrum Hot Springs Permit Zone Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness" (PDF). United States Forest Service. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
  5. ^ a b "Conundrum Hot Springs". Uncover Colorado. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
  6. ^ Brasch, Sam (17 July 2017). "Conundrum Hot Springs Has A Poop Problem, So You May Have To Bag Your Business". Colorado Public Radio News. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
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