When it comes to getting pampered, the historic Yampah Hot Springs is one hot alternative for locals.

Give some of the credit to its vapor caves, which are fed by 125-degree hot springs and have an air temperature of 117 degrees.

But Yampah Hot Springs offers plenty more, including massages, manicures and pedicures, facials, body wraps, herbal wraps and other spa treatments.

“We have a chocolate wrap that’s real popular. Salt rubs are real popular,” said general manager Jackie Holgate.

She said the vapor caves are the only natural ones in North America and the first reason many people come through the door.

“To be pampered beyond that is why they keep coming, I think,” she said.

Other Finalists: Hot Springs Lodge & Pool, Suddenly Slender


Best Place for a Massage

It may come as no surprise that locals’ favorite spa also is considered the Best Place for a Massage. Yampah Hot Springs has placed an emphasis on this service, with a staff of some 30 massage therapists, and nine massage rooms.

Other Finalists: Splendor Mountain Spa, Hot Springs Lodge & Pool


Best Motel or Hotel

Another Glenwood Springs institution with a long history took the honors in this category. The Hotel Colorado opened in 1893, and has hosted guests ranging from President Theodore Roosevelt to gangster Al Capone. Look for this longtime tourist attraction to be even better following the completion of a current $2 million renovation.

Other Finalists: The Redstone Inn, Best Western Antlers


Best Bed & Breakfast

Jim and Sharill Hawkins love to make guests comfortable at their Four Mile Creek Bed & Breakfast, near Glenwood Springs. A beautiful old barn and lots of antiques add to the aura of the place, as does the babbling creek itself.

Other Finalists: Avalanche Ranch, Lavender & Thyme Bed & Breakfast