Glenwood Springs
Come play in Colorado's land of water
Water—in all its wonderful and varied forms—has been a source of lively, action-oriented things-to-do in Glenwood Springs. Visitors can go rafting through scenic Glenwood Canyon, hike to the geological wonder that is Hanging Lake, explore caves created by receding waters, zipline across the Colorado River and fish in Gold Medal-designated waterways. A manmade wave at the whitewater park is a highlight for kayakers and paddleboarders. When water turns to snow in winter, there’s skiing, snowmobiling and other frosty delights at Sunlight Mountain Resort.
Most famous of all its water-centric activities, however, is Glenwood Springs’ geothermal attractions. The town’s mineral-rich waters and steam caves continue to be a wellspring of recreation and relaxation for Colorado travelers. They include Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves. Lodging and dining are located conveniently nearby.
Glenwood Springs Visitors Center
802 Grand Ave.
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
970-945-6580
visitglenwood.com
Glenwood Springs Hot Springs
Fun Fact
Fun Fact
A Quick History of Glenwood Springs
Early Days
The Ute peoples spent their summers hunting big game, harvesting wild foods and soaking and steaming in the recuperative area’s hot springs.
Captain Richard Sopris, for whom Mt. Sopris is named, was one of the first explorers to lay eyes on the verdant, geothermal valley in the 1860s. Later, James Landis settled at the confluence of the area’s two rivers. That location would become the downtown heart of Glenwood Springs.
Access Granted
The railroad arrived in 1887, bringing with it an influx of workers and tourists, transforming Glenwood Springs from a mining, gambling and brothel town to a high-brow hot springs destination for the privileged classes.
Big Changes
Town father Isaac Cooper, on the urgings of his wife, changed the town’s name from Defiance to the more genteel Glenwood Springs. Another founder, Walter Devereux, deployed his wealth to bring his geothermal dreams to life. In 1888, he opened the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and in 1893 welcomed the first guests to stay at the Hotel Colorado. Even in those days, travel itineraries included the Vapor Caves for underground steam baths and the Fairy Caves, which were billed as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
Famous Guests
Several notable people stayed in Glenwood Springs, including President Teddy Roosevelt, “the Unsinkable” Molly Brown, cowboy and actor Tom Mix, gunslinger John “Doc” Holliday and gangster Al Capone.
