The Case for a Hot Tub After Skiing (Science Optional)
There are two kinds of people after a ski day: those who go straight to the hot tub and those who are wrong. The post-skiing hot tub soak is one of life's great pleasures, and there might even be science behind why it feels so good.
The Theory
Hot water dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to tired muscles. This may help flush metabolic waste products that accumulate during intense exercise (like, say, a hundred turns on a ski run). Heat also relaxes muscle tension and may reduce the perception of soreness. Whether it's genuine recovery or just a really nice placebo, the result is the same — you feel better.
The Practice
Step off the mountain. Remove ski boots (instant relief). Change into swimwear. Walk outside into cold mountain air. Lower yourself into 103-degree water. Look up at the stars coming out over the San Juan Mountains. Consider that your life choices have led you to this exact moment. Feel grateful.
The Details
Both of our townhomes — Basecamp and Timberline — have private hot tubs on the deck. This means no sharing with strangers, no time limits, and no walking through a hotel lobby in a towel. Just step outside, soak, and stare at the mountains.
Tips
Hydrate before and during. Altitude plus hot water plus a long ski day can dehydrate you quickly. Don't stay in too long — 20-30 minutes is the sweet spot. And if you bring a cold beer into the hot tub, we won't judge.
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