The hot springs are just a start
The 100° pools at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort (20 miles from Salida) are just the place to take the edge off the winter chill. Take in views of snow-shrouded 14ers while you warm up in the two manmade thermal pools overlooking Chalk Creek, and over a dozen natural creekside pools winding through the valley below. Pool use $15; 15870 County Rd. 162, Nathrop; 888/395-7799.
Stop in for a chai at Vital Living Herbs and Nutrition, with tea seating where sippers can sample any of 70 fragrant blends. Or relax with a full Tea to Stay pot. $1 for three-tea tastings, small pots from $1.95; closed Sun and Feb 27–Mar 1; new location opening Mar 2 at 148-B F St.; 719/539-2090.
You’ll get to see Amicas’s wood-fired pizzas baking in the open kitchen’s oven kiln before you even take your first bite. Kick up your slice a few degrees with the chile-infused oil. As Salida’s only micro- brewery, Amicas has hefty seasonal beers (try the chocolaty porter) that add to the glow. $; 136 E. Second St.; 719/539-5219.
Pick up gourmet kitchenware and food items at the Mixing Bowl, a must-stop spot for gourmands and foodies. To warm up your palate, try the green-chile salsa mix or the original-blend hot salsa mix. Mix $4; 148-A F St.; 719/539-2655.
Add a new twist to your spa experience. The rock treatment at Medicine Massage uses smooth river stones, heated in hot water to 120°, to relieve tension and increase circulation and body warmth during your 60-minute rubdown. Appropriately located in the Steam Heat Building. $60 for 60 minutes; 246 E. First St.; 719/221-0338.