going to colorado in may

Question

Hello we are planning to go to colorado from los angeles in may. We are going to rent a car and like hot springs, nature, interesting sight seeing's ( not museum at all) easy hikes, Where do you suggest we stay? which city ? A friend of mine who lives there suggested telluride, ouray, crested butte and steamboat springs. I didn't see any of those names any where. What do you think? thanks

Answer

Visiting Colorado in May is a great choice for nature, hot springs, and light hiking. At that time of year, some high-altitude passes may still have snow, but many scenic drives and lower-elevation areas are accessible. Your friend’s suggestions of Telluride, Ouray, Crested Butte, and Steamboat Springs are all excellent choices for outdoor adventures and hot springs.

Telluride

A beautiful mountain town with stunning scenery. The town itself is pedestrian-friendly and offers easy hikes nearby, such as the Bear Creek Trail or Jud Wiebe Trail for panoramic views. Telluride has a few local hot springs within driving distance and a charming downtown with shops and restaurants.

Ouray

Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is perfect for hot springs lovers. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool is iconic and relaxing, and there are plenty of easy nature walks and short hikes nearby, like the Cascade Falls Trail. The drive along the Million Dollar Highway is scenic, but check for snow conditions in May.

Crested Butte

This town is known for wildflowers later in May and June. The surrounding Gunnison National Forest and Kebler Pass offer easy to moderate hikes and excellent scenery. There are also nearby hot springs in the surrounding valleys, and the town has a relaxed, small-mountain-town vibe.

Steamboat Springs

Famous for its namesake hot springs, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Old Town Hot Springs are must-visits. There are also many accessible hiking trails in the nearby Routt National Forest. Steamboat has a vibrant downtown area with restaurants and a ski-town charm even in the spring.

Other Considerations

Glenwood Springs – Home to one of the largest hot springs pools in the world and easy access to the Colorado River for rafting or walking trails.
Buena Vista – Offers hot springs and easy hikes along Cottonwood Creek or nearby mountains, plus less crowded than other tourist towns.
Pagosa Springs – Southern Colorado option with multiple hot springs resorts and gentle hiking opportunities in the San Juan Mountains.

Suggestions for Itinerary

Pick one or two towns as a base to minimize hotel changes.
Plan scenic drives between towns, but check high-altitude passes for snow closures.
Mix easy hikes with hot springs so you can enjoy both nature and relaxation.
Check local visitor centers for up-to-date trail conditions and recommended short hikes.

For a 5–7 day trip in May, a combination like Ouray + Telluride or Steamboat Springs + Crested Butte works well, balancing scenic drives, easy outdoor activities, and soaking in hot springs.

going to colorado in may

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