Colorado's 'Land Of Water' Is A Rocky Mountain Resort City Full Of Relaxing Hot Springs

Imagine spending your vacation relaxing in steaming, mineral-rich pools as you listen to the gentle babbling sounds of the rushing rivers. That's what you get when you visit Glenwood Springs, Colorado, often nicknamed the 'Land of Water'. Found in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort City promises stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and friendly small-town charm. Its hot springs, renowned and legendary for geothermal waters full of minerals, have been attracting individuals in quest of health and happiness amidst breathtaking alpine scenery for centuries. Also, known for its unique healing waters and majestic surroundings, Glenwood Springs is a famous vacation spot for travelers seeking to unwind and recharge at some of the best hot springs across America.

You can drive to Glenwood Springs from Denver, which is about 150 miles east of the resort, or Aspen, about 41 miles southeast. Alternatively, you can fly to regional airports like Eagle County Regional Airport, about 28 miles east of the resort, or Denver International Airport, about 170 miles east, and then rent a car or take a taxi. The town also has an Amtrak station, perfect for those who prefer the scenic route through Colorado's mountains as you head to the springs.

Glenwood Springs' origins date back thousands of years, when the Ute Native American tribe considered these natural springs sacred for their healing powers. However, it was not until 1887 when the railroad arrived that the town changed from a mining to a tourist destination, thanks to the surging flow of workers into the area and the hot springs. The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool was opened in 1888 by one of the first settlers in the area, Walter Devereux, and it has since become a hotspot for tourists. 

Glenwood Springs is distinguished by its rich geothermal reserves, which help facilitate relaxation and wellness. The main attraction in this region is the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, famously known as the world's largest mineral hot springs pool. The resort city is home to two main natural hot springs, a big pool with lap lanes and a diving area, as well as the smaller Therapy Pool ideal for a tension-releasing soak, making it a top winter vacation spot in America, especially for couples.

The pools have temperatures ranging from 93°F to 104°F, meaning they are suitable for all ages who want a relaxing dip. For a more intimate experience, check out Iron Mountain Hot Springs, where multiple soaking pools cascade along the banks of the Colorado River, offering beautiful river views. Iron Mountain has 16 soaking pools with temperatures ranging from 98°F to 108°F. You will get the full spa service with massages and wellness treatments.

Equally enticing are nearby Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves' natural delights, geothermally heated mineral water that creates steam, climbing up a system of underground rural caverns, culminating in a heat-laden, sauna-like bath powered by Mother Nature. Glenwood Springs isn't just about hot springs. You will find plenty of other things to keep your adrenaline pumping. Trailblazers can hike the Hanging Lake trail. It's categorized as moderate and about three miles round-trip. A stroll along the trail will reward you with stunning views of Hanging Lake, perched on a cliff. If you prefer cycling, follow the Glenwood Canyon Bike Trail to ride along the Colorado River.

Once you've had enough of the hot springs, the adventure doesn't stop there. Glenwood Springs features adrenaline-charged outdoor activities under the umbrella of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, the only mountain-top amusement park at this western US destination. The mountain-top park features brain-twisting rides such as "Glenwood Canyon Flyer," a suspended gondola swing that sweeps riders over the canyon floor, or the Giant Canyon Swing that flies up to about 1,200 feet above the Colorado River.

You can also take a guided cave tour inside limestone caves to discover more. The park also hosts various events during the year, such as Music on the Mountain that features a series of concerts, the Oktoberfest that features stein holding competitions with delectable delicacies, and Winter on the Mountain, where visitors get to enjoy a lighted nighttime Alpine Coaster, a giant musical Christmas tree, and thousands of glittering lights.

No trip to Glenwood Springs is complete without paddling or rafting the Colorado River. You can go tubing, kayaking, or book a guided whitewater trip through Glenwood Canyon and enjoy the beautiful scenery. If the charm of small towns delights you, just about a 20-minute drive south of the resort is the small artsy town of Carbondale. This town usually has numerous music and cultural events that celebrate the arts scene and creative culture. You can also visit the local breweries and distilleries like the Marble Distilling Co. to grab a craft drink or bite. Further south, about 30 miles from the resort city, is Redstone, a former mining village with Victorian charisma and historic sites like the Redstone Castle. You can stroll the boulevard or admire the preserved coking ovens.