Glenwood Springs, Colorado Travel Guide

Introducing Glenwood Springs, Colorado!  Glenwood Springs is a popular hot spring town located on I-70 in western Colorado and home to about 10,000 residents.  While the hot springs are popular, as they include the world’s largest outdoor mineral hot springs pool, the town is full of history.  From old hotels frequented by Teddy Rosevelt to Doc Holliday’s grave to a prison that Ted Bundy escaped, there is plenty for history buffs to enjoy.  Glenwood Springs is within driving distance to Grand Junction, CO (1hr 20min, 90 miles), Denver, CO (2hr 30min, 160 miles), and Boulder, CO (2hr 50min, 165 miles).  Glenwood Springs is the perfect destination for a long weekend or a week-long vacation.  Relax in the hot springs, hike the mountains, ski the slopes, and enjoy all that Glenwood Springs has to offer!

Glenwood Springs is known for its multiple hot springs and resorts.  Be sure to soak in Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Penny Hot Springs, and head to the world’s largest outdoor mineral hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.  For even more relaxation, head to the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves to enjoy a spa treatment and sit in the vapor caves.  Speaking of caves, explore the caves at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.  See the caves, ride the gondola, and catch a thrill on the coasters.  For some history, consider visiting Doc Holliday’s Grave and the Frontier Historical Museum.  Interested in shopping?  Look for a new outfit at Elizabeth Dean Boutique, souvenirs from Dancing Bear Trading Post and Sioux Villa Curio, and rocks from High Country Gems and Minerals.

Colorado is a beautiful state with many woods and hiking trails.  Head to the popular Hanging Lake Trailhead, the Jess Weaver Trailhead, the Storm King Fire Memorial Trailhead, and the Thomas Lake Trailhead.  Visitors can also explore the old Crystal Mill, but a 4X4 vehicle is needed to access the trail.  Be sure to head to the popular Rifle Falls State Park for more hiking, camping, and caving.  While at the state park, make a short detour to the Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery.  For biking, cycle down the Rio Grande Trail, a 42-mile trail connecting Glenwood Springs to Aspen.  Here in the winter?  Ski at Sunset Mountain Resort.  Glenwood Springs is located on the Colorado River, and there are several rental companies in town that run whitewater rafting tours. 

Glenwood Springs has quite a food scene for visitors.  For breakfast, grab the popular cronuts from Sweet Coloradough and coffee and breakfast from Deja Brew & Sunshine Too.  For lunch, head to Vicco’s Charcoalburger Drive-In for a classic burger joint experience but with bison and elk burgers!  Also be sure to try the tacos from Slope and Hatch, Detroit-style and deep-dish pizzas from Propaganda Pie, and duck wings from Co. Ranch House.  For local brews, head to Glenwood Canyon Brewery and Casey Brewing and Blending.  For dinner, locals highly recommend the food at The Pullman.  Other great spots include the from-scratch cooking at Riviera Supper Club and Scratch Kitchen, steaks at Juicy Lucy, Italian classics from Brava Modern Trattoria, and upscale fine dining from Hugo’s.

Your stay in Glenwood Springs is bound to last more than a day.  Consider booking a room at Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge, Hotel Colorado, or The Hotel Glenwood Springs.  Visitors can also rent cabins at the Glenwood Canyon Resort, or camp at Rifle Falls State Park.  Need a whole place to yourself?  Consider booking a Vrbo.  Here are some of our favorites: Downtown Apartment for 2, Charming Home for 4, Central Industrial Apartment for 4, and Rustic Cabin for 4.

Want to visit Glenwood Springs but not sure when?  Consider coming during the Strawberry Days Festival for live music, a parade, and all things strawberry.  Whatever you’re into, Glenwood Springs, Colorado has something worth seeing.  We hope this travel guide gives you a glimpse into life in Glenwood Springs that can inspire a future visit.

Happy Travels!

The Modern Travel Guide

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