🏞️ Discover Glenwood Spring, Colorado
Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a charming town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, renowned for its natural hot springs, stunning landscapes, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you're seeking relaxation in the soothing mineral waters or adventure in the surrounding wilderness, Glenwood Springs has something for everyone. Glenwood Springs is a small town, easy to navigate, and has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
🚗 Getting There
The drive from Denver to Glenwood Springs takes about 3 hours, covering roughly 157 miles west via I-70. Most visitors fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), so I’m using Denver as the main reference point. The route itself is incredibly scenic—especially in spring and fall—and the views through Glenwood Canyon alone make the trip worthwhile. If you’re up for a more relaxed journey, there’s also the train. The Amtrak ride from Denver’s Union Station to Glenwood Springs takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the schedule. I’ve heard the views are spectacular, especially during fall, so it’s definitely on my list to experience firsthand. The Glenwood Springs Amtrak Station is conveniently located near the town center, making it easy to start exploring as soon as you arrive.
🌟 My Personal Observation
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Glenwood Hot Springs Pool: The world’s largest hot springs pool, Glenwood is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation—open year-round with stunning mountain views.
Despite its size, it rarely feels crowded. Multiple pools of varying sizes and temperatures cater to all ages, and the facilities include lockers, showers, and a café for added convenience. If you're in the mood to indulge, spa services like massages and wellness treatments are available on-site.
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool:📍 View on Google Maps -
Iron Mountain Hot Springs: The Iron Mountain Hot Spring has an amazing view close to the river.
It has 16 different soaking pools with varying temperatures, a cold plunge pool, and a relaxation area.
The facility also includes a café and a gift shop. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Glenwood Springs.
A different experience from the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, Iron Mountain offers a more intimate and tranquil setting.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs:📍 View on Google Maps -
Hanging Lake: This iconic trail is a must-do for any visitor to Glenwood Springs.
The hike is about 3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1,000 feet, leading to a breathtaking turquoise lake suspended on the edge of a cliff.
The trail can be steep and rocky in places, so good hiking shoes are recommended. Note that a permit is required to hike to Hanging Lake, which helps preserve this natural wonder.
You can obtain permits online in advance or at the Glenwood Canyon Visitor Center.
📍 Trailhead Parking Location
📍 Hanging Lake (Top of the Trail)
🥾 Hidden Gems in Glenwood Springs
- Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park: A mountaintop theme park offering cave tours, thrill rides like the Defiance coaster and Giant Canyon Swing, plus sweeping views of the valley. Accessible by gondola and perfect for families or adrenaline seekers.
- Shoshone Rapids: A high-energy stretch of the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon, known for its Class III-IV rapids. Ideal for spring and summer rafting with dramatic canyon scenery.
- Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path: A paved trail winding through the canyon alongside the river. Great for biking, walking, or skating, with access to scenic spots like Hanging Lake and Grizzly Creek.
- Rio Grande Trail: A long-distance bike path connecting Glenwood Springs to Aspen. Smooth, scenic, and perfect for a full-day ride or a relaxed cruise along the river.
🛏️ Places to Stay in Glenwood Springs
I’ve stayed in Glenwood Springs on multiple occasions and can personally recommend these spots:
- Courtyard by Marriott Glenwood Springs: Clean, modern, and quiet. Great location with mountain views and easy access to downtown and the hot springs.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Glenwood Springs: Spacious suites, friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for longer stays or family trips.
- Hotel Glenwood Springs: Located right next to the gondola for Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, with Iron Mountain Hot Springs in the backyard. Clean, convenient, and perfect for adventure access.
🎥 My Travel Videos
Here is some videos I took from The Canyon when driving back to Denver!
