Travel Guide to Glenwood Springs And Its 5 Best Attractions

Glenwood Springs has been dubbed "America’s Most Fun Town." It’s a family friendly destination two and a half hours west of Denver in the Colorado Rockies. There’s a multitude of attractions to see here, so it’s worth spending a few days at least. Geological wonders are a large part of what draws people to this hot spot – there are hot springs, vapor caves, two rivers and a canyon, not to mention the great Rocky Mountains themselves. Outdoor activities include hiking, rafting, cycling and fishing. There are also exciting rides at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park for thrill seekers, and spas in town for those looking for downtime.

Take a soothing dip at Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the largest outdoor hot springs pool

Photo by Patrick Rasenburg via Flickr.

Visitors can swim in the two hot spring pools, which together span an impressive 460 feet. The naturally flowing spring fills these pools with three and a half million gallons of hot water every day, and within the water are fifteen minerals. Described as a natural hot tub – without the jets – the springs attract visitors of all ages. Alongside the hot spring pools there is also a regular pool where bathers can cool off.

Discover all the fun that one can have with a few caves at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Photo by C Bays via Panoramio.

This adventure park has activities for both adults and children, including cave tours and thrill rides. Among other things, there’s a 4D theatre ride, a giant canyon swing and a 70-minute guided cave tour through caverns and formations in Colorado’s biggest showcave. There’s also the Iron Mountain Tramway, a seven-minute scenic gondola ride, and mountaintop restaurant, Lookout Grille.

Relax, de-stress and luxuriate in the natural underground hot mineral water at Yampah Spa and Hot Springs Vapor Caves

Photo courtesy of Yampa Spa

At this world-class day spa you can indulge in a treatment such as a massage or a facial, as well as bathe in hot waters that are naturally high in therapeutic minerals such as sulphur, nitrate, zinc and potassium. Yampah Spa and Vapour Caves is a unique pampering experience where you can steam in hot caves and enjoy a swim in a natural geothermal mineral bath.

Hiking and hang out at the mystical Hanging Lake

Photo by Brent Flanders via Flickr.

To the east of Glenwood Springs is the geological wonder, Hanging Lake. But to get there you first have to climb the mile-long, sometimes steep and rocky trail. It’s a decent workout to get to the top, but if you don’t mind working up a bit of a sweat then the beauty of the crystal clear falls will reward you. Don’t forget to stop off at Spouting Rock on the way up for a refreshing spray of cold water.

Hotel Colorado: a 19th century Italian palazzo, or a good old-fashioned American mountain escape?

Photo by David Brevard via Flickr.

History and comfort are combined in this hotel designed with 19th century Italy in mind. All the guest rooms adhere to that theme, from the imported Italian wallpaper to the specially selected artwork. The hotel is equally as popular with hikers and cyclists looking to rest their tired muscles as it is with loved-up couples looking for a romantic mountain retreat.