Cherished as “Yampah” by the Ute Indians, meaning big medicine, you can rejuvenate in the world’s largest hot spring mineral pool, or soothe your spirit at one of our award-winning spas. Local’s tip: Don’t miss the waterslide or the Spa of the Rockies Warm Stone Massage.
Explore the historic Fairy Caves, which offered tours in 1892 to the early vacationers of Glenwood Springs. The caverns now display the most decorated formations and largest excavated areas in Colorado. In addition to the caverns, the park offers adventure rides for all types of thrill seekers. To get to the park, ride the Iron Mountain tram, just steps from Hotel Glenwood Springs. Local’s tip: Don’t miss the giant swing that sways over Glenwood Canyon!
Designated as one of Colorado’s most beautiful hikes, Hanging Lake sits at the top of a mile and half trail following a lush creek through the majestic Glenwood Canyon. Local’s tip: Be sure to get misted at Spouting Rock!
As the first trains forged the Glenwood Canyon in 1886, passengers were awed by the steep canyon and beautiful river. Prior to the train, not even the Ute Indians had experienced the scale and beauty of the majestic canyon. Today you can catch the train and arrive at the steps of the historic Hotel Denver in downtown Glenwood Springs, all the while taking in the best views that over a century of passengers have enjoyed. Or, spend an afternoon capturing the views from the 16 miles of paved bike and walking trail, pedaling your way next to the Colorado River as it winds through this magic place. Local’s tip: Bike from east to west, it’s downhill!
The heart of Glenwood invites you to dine on our restaurant row. Downtown 7th Street hosts restaurants catering to all taste buds, from grand burgers to creative gourmet entrees. 7th Street is anchored by Glenwood’s own Brewpub, winner of many prestigious national and international awards. Local’s tip: May we recommend the smiley fries served on a Frisbee for the kids and maybe the Saint James Irish Red for you?
Fishermen, we will keep it simple for you; 42 miles of continuous Gold Medal waters. Cast peacefully along Roaring Fork River, just blocks from Hotel Glenwood Springs or The Hotel Denver, or take a short drive to the Frying Pan River in Basalt, Colorado. Local’s tips: Fish early and fish often.
Ride the legendary Colorado River on your terms; whether punching through a wave on a whitewater raft with friends, a tranquil glide on a paddle board or trick the surf in a kayak at the Whitewater Park. Local’s tips: t-shirts on the river get wet and stay cold. Best to use sunscreen with regular swim attire. “The bull” is the best seat in the boat!
Glenwood comes alive in the summer with live music. Sing along with the comedy of drama at the Glenwood Vaudeville or pack a light sweater for an evening under the stars at
Music on the Mountain or the popular
Summer Music series. Local’s tips: Pack a light picnic & snacks, but leave glass containers at home. Glow in the dark wrist bands are fun way to keep track of your kids.
Shop your way through the boutique shops adorning the streets of the historic downtown. Find plenty of gadgets and doohickeys at the sporting goods stores catering to life in the Rocky Mountains. Crack a new book or pick up some décor in a stroll through Glenwood Springs, or venture to Aspen for even more variety. Local’s tip: The
Downtown Market on Tuesday nights provides fabulous local art and produce.
Grasp the not-so-tall tales of Glenwood’s famous history as you discover stories during your stay. Drop in on birthplace of the “Teddy Bear.” The gangster Al Capone, as well as American Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Taft frequented our fun town. Local’s tip: Visit the resting place of one of America’s most infamous gun slingers, Doc Holiday, several blocks from downtown.The next famous guest may be you!