305 Best Sights in Colorado, USA

At the source of several of Ouray's famed springs, this European-style spa and inn features rock-hewn vapor caves with a steamy soaking pool. In addition, there's a small outdoor pool, fed by continuously flowing hot-spring water. Massages and other treatments are offered at the spa. This is a strictly no-smoking facility, and no children under five are allowed in the caves.

The Benedictine monks once cloistered at Holy Cross Abbey came to Cañon City for spiritual repose. But for the faithful who frequent the winery on the eastern edge of the property, redemption is more easily found in a nice bottle of Revelation, a Bordeaux-style blend. For a truly divine experience, reserve a wine and cheese tasting ($40 per person) on the terrace that includes a private hostess, a sampling of all wines, and an artisanal cheese, bread, fruit, and chocolate plate.

Part of the Yampah Spa and Salon, the hot springs vapor caves are a series of three underground, geothermal steam baths. Mineral-filled water from a natural hot spring runs about 125°F under the floors of one of the few known natural vapor caves in North America, creating steam temperatures of 110°F–112°F within the rock chambers, where there are marble benches for you to sit on while you inhale the steam. You can take a break in an adjacent cooling room or the upstairs solarium when you need it. Spa treatments are also available, including massages, body wraps, and private mineral baths. Reservations are required and visitors are limited to two hours.

If it's a hot day, take a drive to the falls section of the Zapata Falls Recreation Area, about 7 miles south of Great Sand Dunes National Park (and about 10 miles north of Alamosa). From the trailhead, it's a ½-mile hike to the 40-foot waterfall and a mildly steep trail, which can include wading in a stream and walking through a narrow gorge to view the falls (depending on water levels). Air temperatures in the gorge are always cool and inviting, and the falls are beautiful, but be careful of the current (and slippery rocks) here. A picnic area and restrooms are at the entrance. The trailhead is 3½ miles off Highway 150, between mile markers 10 and 11.

Colorado's first military post was established here in 1858 to protect settlers in the San Luis Valley, which was then part of the Territory of New Mexico. The legendary Kit Carson once served here, and the six original adobe structures are still standing. The fort features a re-creation of the commandant's quarters from Carson's era, as well as period military displays, and a rotating local folk-art exhibit.