Although many people use Glenwood Springs as a pit stop on their way further down I-70 or on their way to a ski trip in Aspen, the mountain town actually offers plenty of entertainment itself. With some of Colorado’s best hot springs and access to lots of outdoor recreation, Glenwood Springs offers a charming experience in the mountains.

History:

Glenwood Springs, like many other mountain towns in Colorado, was originally inhabited by nomadic Ute Indian tribes. According to Visit Glenwood Springs, the area of “bubbling hot springs” has a long history as a destination for health seekers.

The town was known as “Defiance” in the Wild West era. James Landis homesteaded the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Grand Rivers that later became Glenwood Springs. Early settlers Isaac Cooper Walter Devereux developed the amenities into a work-class resort, and the arrival of the railroads in 1887 brought tourists to enjoy Glenwood Springs, including the Vapor Caves, Hotel Colorado, and Fairy Caves.

Glenwood Springs was incorporated in 1885, according to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and has since grown into an excellent area for tourism and outdoor recreation.

Outdoor recreation:

Hanging Lake – the hike to this famous Colorado lake offers stunning scenery and gentle waterfalls.

Hot springs – check out Glenwood Hot Springs Resort to enjoy the world’s largest hot springs pool, or the terraced pools of Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

Whitewater rafting and kayaking – the convergence of the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River in the area offers great rafting and kayaking.

Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path – follows the Colorado River.

Fly fishing – both the Colorado River and Roaring Fork Rivers are Gold Medal trout waters.

Sunlight Mountain Resort – located nearby Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park – located atop a mountain, this park offers alpine coasters, roller coasters, and scenic cave tours.

Culture:

Historic Hotel Colorado – built in 1893, this hotel has a history of serving U.S. presidents and is located in downtown Glenwood Springs.

Frontier Historical Museum – showcases Glenwood Springs’ history.

Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves – offers geothermal steam relaxation and personalized spa services.

Doc Holiday’s Grave – visit the famous Wild West gunslinger’s grave at the Linwood Cemetery.

Glenwood Vaudeville Revue – offers live dinner theatre with comedy, music, musicals, and more.

Strawberry Days – features strawberries and ice cream, live music, a parade, and more.

Dining:

Colorado Ranch House – offers a western inspired menu with locally sourced beef, Rocky Mountain trout, salmon, and local craft beers and spirits.

Slope & Hatch – serves unique tacos.

Glenwood Canyon Brewpub – Serves hearty pub favorites.

Lodging:

The Lodge at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort – located at the hot springs resort.

Hotel Maxwell Anderson – this historic hotel is located in a great spot to explore the town.

Best Western Antlers – located within walking distance to the downtown area.

Getting there:

According to Google Maps, Glenwood Springs is about 2 and a half hours from Denver.

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