Montrose. IMO, I would say that early/mid summer is the best time to visit the springs. The springs are not too hot, you can take a dip in the creek and soak up some rays on the rocks. Mid/late summer is oppressively hot, and winter is nice but your dips in the creek will be limited to a few feet from the warm pools! Enjoying the springs at night is safe and I encourage it very much. The place takes on a whole new energy at night and is very tranquil. The hike out is no problem with a flashlight and actually can be done without one if necessary. As far as Bowen's Ranch, I have always found Mike to be very helpful and polite. I mind my own business and take people at face value. It's to bad people have to carry their personal agendas on to message boards like this. I hope this helps. I'm looking forward to hearing other responses...