Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Much like some of the other hot springs towns in Colorado, Glenwood Springs was once a miner community but is now a major resort town. It is surrounded by things to do, including skiing, fishing, hiking, and biking, and is conveniently located by I-70.

The historic downtown has several blocks of shops, restaurants, and lodging. It’s located at the start of the Roaring Fork Valley in Garfield County, residing at an elevation of 5,761 feet. In 2020 Glenwood Springs had a population of 9,963.

Main Attractions

Downtown Glenwood Springs Grand Avenue — Grand Avenue leads through downtown Glenwood Springs. Photo by: Prasenberg

Historic Downtown – Stroll the beautiful, centuries-old streets of downtown Glenwood Springs. Shop, dine, and learn about the town’s past. The Colorado River flows through town offering a nice riverwalk connected to a network of trails.

Colorado River Rafting – Colorado River Rafting, which has its headwaters to the northwest by RMNP in Grand County, passes through Glenwood Springs on its southwestern journey to Utah and beyond. The Glenwood Canyon is a popular stretch of the river for summer rafting trips. It’s suitable for families looking for a little bit of whitewater thrill.

Both rafters and kayakers will enjoy the manmade rapids within the Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park. It’s located right in town, offering whitewater thrills close to home. Even if you don’t partake in the fun directly, stroll by for some spectating.

Rafting the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon Colorado — Rafting the Upper Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon. Photo by: Chris M

Sunlight Mountain – It may not be known to most Coloradans, but Sunlight Mountain boasts many perks. It’s got affordable lift tickets, light dry snow, and a fun little mountain featuring some of the top glade skiing in the state.

Amtrak Station – Glenwood Springs is a popular stop along the Amtrak railroad heading both east and west through Colorado. You can board the California Zephyr to the west coast or head east to Chicago. It’s a popular trip from Denver Union Station for local Coloradans.

Glenwood Springs CO Amtrak Station and Train — Amtrak station and train in downtown Glenwood Springs. Photo by: GSpics

Hot Springs – Used for centuries because of their natural ability to relax muscles, soothe tired minds, and also help improve circulation, hot springs are a great place to unwind. Glenwood Hot Springs has the largest hot springs pool in the world. Yampah Vapor Caves allows you to go underground in a vapor-rich cave. Iron Mountain Hot Springs offers a relaxing experience on the Colorado River.

Situated down the road from town is the primitive South Canyon Hot Springs for those who want to relax in a more remote, undeveloped setting.

Read about the top things to do in Glenwood Springs.

Recreation

Hanging Lake Waterfalls Colorado — Hanging Lake waterfalls near Glenwood Springs, CO. Photo by: enjoiskate8

Camping – There are a couple of places to camp only a few miles from town, including Ami’s Acres and The Hideout. Both are private campgrounds suitable for tents and RVs. Read more about the camping near Glenwood Springs, Rifle, and Carbondale.

Fishing –

The Colorado River runs through town, with good fishing spots that are pretty easy to find.
Roaring Fork has Colorado’s longest stretch of Gold Medal Water and the perfect conditions for catching trout and cutthroat.
Crystal River is a wonderful place to catch trout, only 12 miles from town.

Glenwood Springs CO Aerial View from Lookout Mountain — Aerial of Glenwood Springs from Lookout Mountain. Photo by: Margalob

Hiking –

Located just ten miles east of Glenwood Springs on I-70, Hanging Lake is one of the most popular treks in the state. This uphill climb is difficult but rewarding, leading you to a national natural landmark with an amazing turquoise lake and waterfalls.
The gravel trail leading to Doc Holliday’s grave is right in town and takes about 30 minutes one way.
Red Mountain trail is a little over 4 miles in total and a perfect hike for families and experienced hikers alike.

Accommodations

U-Shaped Hotel Colorado — Grounds of Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/hotelcolorado

Booking.com

Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge – The most popular accommodation for on-site hot springs access and a relaxing spa to enjoy.

Hotel Colorado – National historic landmark and the place to stay in Glenwood Springs since 1893. It is close to many outdoor recreation opportunities and has great dining choices on the property.

Hotel Denver – Historic 3-star hotel with a brewery on the bottom floor. It has the perfect balance of historic touches and modern amenities to make your stay comfortable. It is conveniently right across from the Amtrak train station.

Read about the best hotels in Glenwood Springs.

Dining

Glenwood Canyon Brewpub outdoor sign — Glenwood Canyon Brewpub in Glenwood Springs, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/glenwoodcanyonbrewpub

Glenwood Canyon Brewpub – Housed in the historic Hotel Denver, this spot serves lunch, dinner, and hand-crafted brews.

Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse – A locals’ favorite, right across the street from the Amtrak Station downtown. They have a large selection of local Colorado meat and produce.

Rosi’s Little Bavarian Restaurant – The place to go for breakfast or brunch. They offer great egg dishes, fresh pastries, a cozy atmosphere, and reasonable prices.

Read about the best bars in Glenwood Springs.

Special Events

Man in german attire holding a bratwurst — Bratwurst griller at the annual Octoberfest in Glenwood Springs, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/visitglenwood

Jan – Ski Spree – Two days of winter fun at Sunlight Mountain, featuring live music, local food, a treasure hunt, fireworks, and a chili cook-off.

May-Sep – Music on the Mountain – Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park hosts this concert series on select Saturday nights in May, June, August, and September. There are dance bands, drink specials, and a free tram ride in exchange for a canned food item.

Jun – Strawberry Days – Held the third weekend of June every year since 1898. Festivities include live music, stage entertainment, interactive games for the kids, a carnival, an arts & crafts fair, a parade down Grand Avenue, and of course free strawberries!

Jun-Sep – Downtown Market – The local farmer’s market is held every Tuesday from June through September, 4-8 pm. There’s music, cooking demos, and plenty of farm-fresh fares.

Jun – Summer of Music – Free six-week concert series held every Wednesday evening at 6:30 pm in Two Rivers Park, beginning in June.

Oct – Octoberfest – For the first three weekends of the month, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park celebrates fall with a Bavarian festival. The event is family-friendly and features a beer garden, ax throwing, and live music.

Read more about the top events in Glenwood Springs.