A Brief History of Hot Sulphur Springs
Hot Sulphur Springs developed around thermal waters that held significance for Ute people long before settlers promoted them as a resort. William N. Byers, founder of the Rocky Mountain News, acquired the townsite and encouraged development around the springs. An 1873 travel account described visitors reaching the area by horseback or wagon over mountain routes, with a hotel still only contemplated. The town incorporated in 1903 and has served as Grand County’s seat for most of the county’s history. During Christmas 1911, its winter carnival helped establish a local tradition of organized winter recreation.