Explore the Beauty of Glenwood Springs: Day Trip or Getaway

Considered the ‘Most Vibrant Small Town Arts Environment in the United States,’ Glenwood Springs has many claims to fame. Located by the confluence of the Roaring Fork River and the Colorado River, Glenwood Springs is a historic destination best known for its natural offerings, most popular among its restorative and healing mineral hot springs.

A four-season destination, Glenwood Springs offers a range of activities for travelers. From rafting in the Colorado River to cycling along paved and unpaved trails, fishing in the rivers, skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. In the winter months, the town is an outdoor haven.

Things to do – Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is the world’s largest mineral hot spring pool. This historic pool has been attracting visitors worldwide since the late 18th century. The source of this pool is the Yampah Spring, which produces over 3 million gallons of water daily. It is also one of the hottest Colorado pools, with an average temperature of 122°.

The Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, where visitors can relax in the mineral waters. Divided into two sections, a therapy pool, and the gigantic main pool, the waters allow visitors to have a range of healing, therapeutic, and relaxing experiences. Website.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Rejuvenate your body and mind at the Iron Mountain Hot Springs. The Iron Mountain Hot Springs is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and is located along the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. It comprises 16 pools of mineral-rich water—ideal for rejuvenating the body and mind, thanks to the quiet zone surrounding these hot springs.

A dip in the iron-rich thermal mineral waters is an incredible experience. With amazing views of the Colorado and Roaring Fork River valleys and sandstone cliffs. The mineral pools range from 99° to 108°. Take a break at the Rejuvenation Station, which provides a cool down between the mineral pools. Shower stalls and locker rooms are available for visitors, along with a souvenir shop and café nearby. Website.

Soak in the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves

The historic underground vapor-filled caverns are Glenwood Spring’s most unusual attractions. The Ute Indians used the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves for healing rituals, and today, it has gained popularity for its mineral-rich steam and vapors from the Yampah Spring. Website.

These Vapor Caves are among the few in North America that naturally offer therapeutic steam. At the caves, walk through a staircase through several partitions before entering the caverns, which are divided into three rooms where you can relax on a bench and inhale the healing vapors and steam from the caverns.

Rafting and Kayaking Glenwood Springs

The mighty Colorado River is ideal for rafting and traversing the Glenwood Canyon. One of the most popular activities in the area, the river, offers terrific settings for an exciting rafting experience. With cliffs on either side, the river glides through the canyon with Class IV and V rapids.

Stop by at the riverside hot springs, float along the flats, or jump into the river for a swim. Kayaking is very popular in the Colorado River, especially from spring through fall. From stretches of smooth water to rapids for some kayaking thrill and adventure, kayaking here is an enjoyable experience.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

In the mood for some fun? Head to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, where you can take an adventure to a new level. The western-themed adventure park offers amusement rides, cave tours, incredible views, and kid-friendly attractions.

Get ready to scream and shout as you encounter thrilling rides. Enjoy the Gondola Ride to the top of Iron Mountain, where you can see stunning views. From the Alpine coaster to the Cliffhanger roller coaster, the Soaring Eagle Zip Line, to the Glenwood Canyon Flyer, you’ll be in for a truly adventurous experience. Website.

Getting to Glenwood Springs

This Colorado town is a three-hour drive 160 miles west of Denver on Interstate 70. Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops at Glenwood Springs from San Francisco to Chicago. The nearest airport is Eagle County Regional Airport.

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