Glenwood Springs, Colorado: Hot Springs and Much More

Learn about Glenwood Springs’ colorful past at the Glenwood Railroad Museum, located in the east wing of the historic Glenwood Springs Railroad Station, built in 1904. The museum features a large-scale live steam train model, which can accommodate a child or a small adult. Explore the inside of a hundred-year-old “Speeder” (motorized track maintenance car) and browse other intriguing railroad memorabilia including a 1950's luxury passenger train dining set.

Learn more local history by visiting the memorial gravesite of Doc Holliday, the legendary Western gunfighter, gambler and dentist who died in Glenwood Springs in 1887. As you hike up the hill to the cemetery, which overlooks town, you’ll be treated to beautiful scenery.

A fun way to explore Glenwood Springs is on a Glenwood Adventure Segway Tour. Whether you choose an off-road adventure up the mountain or a tour of the charming downtown, the whole family will have a great time. Afterward, drop by Sweet Adventures for some scrumptious ice cream or fudge – it’s an indulgent ending to a day of fun.

After so much adventure and exercise, it’s time for some relaxation. There's no better way to unwind than with a visit to the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. The Glenwood Hot Springs is the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world. The Ute Indians believed the springs possessed magical, therapeutic powers and considered the area sacred. One of the most popular destinations in Colorado, the springs have been attracting visitors from all over the world for over 125 years. Indulge in a visit to the Spa of the Rockies, adjacent to the hot springs pool.

Relaxation naturally includes good food and entertainment – at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue, you’ll get both. The professional performers and great food guarantee an absolutely unforgettable evening.

For a change of pace, get ready for thrills at Glenwood Caverns, a Western-themed adventure park perched on the side of Iron Mountain more than 2,000 meters up. The gondola ride up to the park offered breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Sopris, the Colorado River and Glenwood Springs. On the Alpine Coaster – the longest alpine roller coaster in Colorado – you’ll wind through magnificent evergreen trees. Get ready to scream your lungs out on Cliffhanger, the highest-elevation roller coaster in North America, then head to the eponymous caves, which extend nearly five kilometers underground.

The hiking trail to Hanging Lake can be a bit challenging, but the waterfalls you’ll find along the way will keep you going. Seeing beautiful Hanging Lake, tucked away on a ledge in a narrow canyon, is more than worth the hike to get there. 

Since Glenwood Springs is only 95 kilometers southwest of Vail and 90 kilometers north of Aspen, it’s a perfect base to explore these two exclusive cities. As an alternative, families will enjoy nearby Sunlight Mountain Resort in White River National Forest, a popular ski region with affordable prices. The resort is perfect for families – all of its 67 runs meet at the base area, so no one can get lost. Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and, of course, breathtaking views. The friendly folks at Glenwood Adventure Company will set you up with a snowmobile ride, ATV ride, Segway tour or whitewater kayaking adventure.

With so many things to see and so many fun activities to enjoy, Glenwood Springs beckons you to “soak it all in.”