Things To Do
in Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs sits in the Rocky Mountain region of western Colorado where the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River meet, surrounded by forested canyons and dramatic peaks. The town is famous for its natural hot springs, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions set along the I-70 corridor. Outdoor recreation thrives year-round, from hiking in summer to skiing nearby in winter, framed by a charming historic downtown.
With a relaxed mountain town vibe, Glenwood Springs blends outdoor thrills with hot springs relaxation and small-town hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, where you can admire charming architecture and discover unique shops. Don't forget to visit the Glenwood Springs Historical Society to learn about the rich history of this mountain town.
In the afternoon, grab lunch at a local bistro featuring farm-to-table cuisine, then head to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Explore the stunning caves and take a thrilling ride on the alpine coaster, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Take some time to relax and soak in the spectacular scenery before heading back.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor Colorado-inspired dishes. After your meal, take a stroll along the banks of the Colorado River, enjoying the calming sounds of the water and the vibrant colors of the sunset. Wind down your evening by soaking in the hot springs at the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, perfect for relaxation.
Wake up early to pack a picnic breakfast and prepare for a day of adventure on the scenic hiking trails. Begin your hike at the Hanging Lake Trailhead, where you'll be greeted by stunning views of waterfalls and lush greenery. The early morning light filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere as you ascend the trail.
After reaching the breathtaking Hanging Lake, take your time to enjoy the serene beauty of the turquoise waters and snap some photos. Enjoy your packed lunch while basking in the tranquility of nature, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. For those looking for more adventure, consider a short hike to Spouting Rock for an additional viewpoint.
Return to Glenwood Springs in the late afternoon and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the local steakhouses. As night falls, consider visiting a local brewery to sample some craft beers and mingle with the friendly locals. Finish your evening by taking a scenic drive along the Colorado River, illuminated by the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🎟️Entrance to Glenwood Caverns or similar attraction | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic hot springs and spa options
- Access to diverse outdoor activities and scenic drives
- Compact, walkable downtown with a friendly, small-town vibe
- Ease of day trips to nearby mountain towns and canyons
- Seasonal crowds and higher peak-season pricing
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Altitude can affect newcomers; daylight hours vary by season
Places to Visit in Glenwood Springs
Visit one of these nice places.
Spectacular canyon walls and winding river views, especially dramatic at golden hours.
Iconic pool lights reflecting on water with mountain silhouettes in the background.
Panoramic views of the town, canyon, and river valley from above.
Historic storefronts, riverfront walkways, and festive street scenes ideal for street photography.
Food in Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming pepper and pork stew served with cornbread or over burritos at many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout prepared simply with herbs and lemon at riverside and alpine-style restaurants.
Hearty burgers made with bison meat, often featuring regional toppings and greens.
A seasonal dessert highlight at several cafes and bakeries in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and locally crafted items near downtown and Two Rivers Park.
Occasional street food and festival setups along Grand Avenue during events and warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep noise levels down in residential areas and stay on designated trails to protect wildlife and vegetation.
Layered clothing is helpful; mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer.
Stand in line for facilities and follow local cues in popular spots; greet with a friendly 'hello' when interacting with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Glenwood Springs
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip around 15-20% for table service; many places add a gratuity for large parties. For counter-service, rounding up or leaving a small tip is common.
Most establishments accept cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and mobile payments; cash is accepted at smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with quick afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sun protection, and light rain gear. Peak outdoor activity with rafting, hiking, and canyon drives.
Crisp air and golden aspen colors; perfect for scenic drives and moderately challenging hikes. Occasional early snow possible later in autumn.
Snowy and cold; ski resorts nearby and hot springs provide warm relief. Roads can be icy; allow extra travel time and check conditions.
Mild days with melting snow and budding wildflowers; variable weather—dress in layers and be ready for rain showers.
Glenwood Springs at Night
Hiking in Glenwood Springs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep, scenic 2-3 mile round trip with a turquoise lake at the end; permit is required in advance.
Shaded canyon hike with creek crossings and forest scenery; moderate difficulty.
Forest-lined trail with creek views; varies in difficulty and length.
Flat to rolling terrain along the Roaring Fork Valley; great for easy family hikes and bike rides.
Airports
How to reach Glenwood Springs by plane.
Small general aviation airport just north of town; limited commercial service but convenient for private flights.
Regional airport about 40 miles southwest with seasonal flights and scenic mountain approaches.
Major regional hub about 100-120 miles west; broader flight options and connections.
Large international hub roughly 160 miles east; access via car, bus, or overnight train connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families enjoy the safe, walkable town center, hot springs, and kid-friendly attractions like Caverns Park and area trails.
Seasonal visitors and residents who participate in hiking, rafting, biking, and skiing in surrounding areas.
A steady presence looking for relaxed recreation, spa days, and scenic drives in a small-town setting.
Workers who come for tourism services, hospitality, and outdoor outfitting during spring to fall.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby resorts and slopes draw winter sports enthusiasts with numerous runs and terrain varied for all levels.
Hundreds of miles of trails and rugged mountain routes in the surrounding high-country.
Rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Glenwood Springs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and grain bowls; ask chefs to customize dishes for any restrictions.
Many menus feature gluten-free choices; inform staff of celiac or gluten sensitivity and avoid cross-contamination in shared kitchens.