Photographed and Written by Hailey Groo
Immerse yourself in the historic, relaxing and picturesque paradise of Glenwood Springs. From rejuvenating hot springs and thrilling cave tours to scenic drives and fascinating history, this charming mountain town has something for everyone. Explore the enchanting Fairy Caves, take in breathtaking views from Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and treat yourself to mouthwatering sushi at Kanpai, right along I-70 in the Rocky Mountains.
Be sure to download your free PDF copy of the Top 10 Things to do in Glenwood Springs, Colorado by clicking here! Join in on the fun as Randy, Caly and Hailey talk about Glenwood Springs on the RVD Podcast by clicking here!
10. Visit the Cemetery – If you take the Doc Holliday Trail, you’ll end up at the Linwood Cemetery. It’s where—you guessed it—Doc Holliday is buried, along with a couple of other notable outlaws and many of Glenwood’s settlers. It’s a beautiful spot to pause after the uphill hike, learn more about local history from the signs dotted around and get a magnificent view of the city.
9. Enjoy a Sushi Dinner at Kanpai – Kanpai is a local favorite for seriously great sushi in Glenwood Springs. They have a vast selection of high-quality, reasonably priced, fresh sushi. If you want something more upscale, check out the fresh local trout from the Co. Ranch House.
8. Take a Scenic Drive – Driving around Glenwood Springs is an activity in and of itself. Mount Sopris is a stunning feature and an excellent photography subject, especially in winter. Glenwood Canyon also offers world-class views right from the highway, surprisingly enough. The resort town’s location on the canyon valley floor lends beautiful views and great photo-ops, no matter which way you drive.
7. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park – Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park has many offerings for thrill seekers and mountain gazers alike. It’s perched atop the canyon wall and overlooks the town below. From a self-controlled alpine scooter to extreme cliffside coasters, Glenwood Caverns is a fun place for the entire family to spend the afternoon and enjoy the surrounding mountain views.
6. Take a Cave Tour – Glenwood Springs is also home to the Fairy Caves. Tours for the caves opened in 1896 and are comfortably paved and guided. Tours last about 40 minutes; you can get tickets at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Even if you have little interest in the rest of the adventure park offerings, visit for the exciting history and geology of the Fairy Caves alone.
5. The Hotel Colorado – This gorgeous (and supposedly haunted) hotel was built in 1893 by a silver baron to attract wealthy customers to the nearby hot springs. Today, you don’t have to be rich to stay at the Hotel Colorado overnight, and it’s free for the public to walk around the lobby and grounds. Try starting or ending the day with a drink from the coffee shop or bar and lounging on a Victorian sofa by a roaring fire in the lobby.
4. Go for a Hike – There are many hiking options in Glenwood, ranging from easy to strenuous. Most locals prefer the more accessible hikes, especially in winter, where you can still enjoy gorgeous views of the city below. The Doc Holliday Trail (pictured) is a local favorite year-round trail in Glenwood Springs. If you plan ahead and obtain a permit, you can visit the Hanging Lake Trail, which promises a beautiful lake, waterfall and gardens that seem to hang cliffside. Be sure to leave Fido at the RV for this hike, as it’s not dog friendly.
3. Fish the Colorado River – Even during the winter, fishing is excellent in the Colorado River. The river is accessible in many places; get your Colorado Parks & Wildlife fishing license and Colorado Wildlife Habitat stamp first. Once you have your permit, you can fish for brookies, browns, cutthroats and rainbow trout. If it’s too chilly to wade, small boats like what is pictured are a good option on the shallow river.
2. Iron Mountain Hot Springs – If you want a more upscale or adult hot spring experience, then Iron Mountain Hot Springs is for you. Due to a recent price increase, they’re now one of Colorado’s more expensive hot springs to visit. However, the small pools with various temperatures, food, bar and kid-free atmosphere make up for it. You can’t access the river, but you have access to outstanding views. If you time your visit, you’ll catch an epic sunset over the canyon walls.
1. Glenwood Hot Springs – Conveniently located just off I-70 in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Glenwood Hot Springs is an affordable and accessible hot spring worth stopping by for a quick visit or a prolonged stay. The large swimming pool stays at a comfortable temperature year-round and is a great place to relax after a long drive. If you’re traveling with little ones, this hot spring is family-friendly and much cheaper than surrounding options.
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