Manitou Mineral Springs

When visitors ask about where the springs are in Colorado Springs, the answer is Manitou Springs. Currently there are 11 springs open to the public, each with its own distinctive flavor and effervescence. Centuries ago, the great tribes of the plains and the Mountain Utes paid homage to the healing and spiritual powers of the mineral springs and believed the medicinal waters were a gift from the Great Spirit Manitou.

Rainwater and snow melt from Pikes Peak and surrounding mountains soak into rock fractures. As the water penetrates to great depth, it becomes heated and mineralized. The warm water naturally flows up into cavernous limestone where it becomes carbonated, then issues from the numerous natural and drilled springs throughout Manitou. Because the water takes thousands of years to complete its journey from mountain sources, it is totally free of industrial and atmospheric contamination.

Beginning in 1871, developers created the resort of Manitou Springs to provide the popular water therapies. Cultural and medical traditions brought prosperity, but, as health practices improved across the country, Manitou’s famous springs slowly became forgotten and neglected. Fortunately, most of them have now been restored by the Mineral Springs Foundation, an all-volunteer 501(c) (3) non-profit organization. An endowment fund is in place to help assure that the springs will be available for the enjoyment of future generations.

The Mineral Springs Foundation currently offers walking tours of the mineral springs every Tuesday and Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. , Walking tours they begin in downtown Manitou Springs. Groups can arrange tours by appointment by calling 685-5089. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a cup to sample the springs.