08/13/2026
8/13/26 | OURAY, Colo. — The Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center is adjusting operations due to seasonal staffing changes that have reduced the number of lifeguards available to safely operate all pool areas.
Starting Monday, August 17, the Slides, Activity Pool, and Shallow Pool will close for general daily operations for the remainder of the season. The Overlook, Hot Pool, and Lap Pool will remain open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Member hours will not be affected.
All pools and slides will be fully open for two community celebrations:
- Ouray Day: Saturday, August 22, 2026
- Labor Day: Monday, September 7, 2026
The Snack Shack will also close for the summer starting Sunday, August 23. It will reopen for Labor Day Weekend, September 5–7, from noon to 6 p.m., before closing for the remainder of the year.
Thirteen of the Ouray Hot Springs’ 18 lifeguards are returning to school, teaching, or beginning extracurricular activities as the summer season winds down. This leaves the facility below the minimum staffing level required to safely operate all pools and slides during daily operations.
“Our lifeguards play an incredibly important role in keeping our guests safe and ensuring that Ouray Hot Springs remains an enjoyable place for our community and visitors,” said Ouray Parks and Recreation Director, Joe Brown. “While we know these changes may be disappointing for some guests, maintaining appropriate lifeguard coverage is a top priority.”
The adjusted schedule is intended to allow the Hot Springs to continue providing safe, consistent operations through the end of the season while working within available staffing levels. The Ouray Hot Springs is already looking ahead to 2027 and exploring ways to strengthen seasonal recruitment and retain more lifeguards throughout the full summer season.
Planned and ongoing efforts include improved recruitment strategies, employee referral incentives, and exploring partnerships with local organizations that could create mutually beneficial staffing opportunities. The City is also interested in recruiting employees who can commit to working throughout the full summer season to provide consistency as staffing needs fluctuate.
“Our goal is not simply to recruit more people, but to build a workforce that can stay with us throughout the summer,” said Brown. “We are looking at new ways to reach potential employees, create incentives for referrals, and develop partnerships that can help us build a more reliable staffing pipeline.”
Working at Ouray Hot Springs can be an especially valuable opportunity for young people entering the workforce. Lifeguards gain practical skills in responsibility, accountability, communication and emergency response, while earning certifications such as CPR and first aid. The position also provides an opportunity to work outdoors, stay physically active and develop lifelong swimming habits.
Ouray Hot Springs also encourages adults and individuals looking for seasonal or year-round employment later in their careers to consider lifeguarding. Lifeguarding is not limited to a first job or summer job for students; experienced adults can bring valuable skills and perspective to the Ouray Hot Springs team.
For current operating information, visit OurayHotSprings.com or follow on social media. Information about employment opportunities is available at CityofOuray.com/employment.
