Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Hot Springs on I-70

Your Guide to Glenwood Springs

Soak, hike, and explore at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers

Glenwood Springs sits at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers, where I-70 meets Highway 82 to Aspen. It's a natural stopping point—and the world's largest hot springs pool makes it worth more than a quick break.

The town has been a resort destination since the 1880s, when the Hotel Colorado hosted presidents and celebrities. Today's visitors come for the springs, Hanging Lake, and the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park's thrill rides perched on a mountainside.

Located 40 miles from Aspen and 60 miles from Vail, Glenwood Springs offers more affordable lodging than either resort while providing easy access to both. It's also where Doc Holliday is buried—the famous gunslinger spent his final days here seeking relief from tuberculosis.

Explore Glenwood Springs

Springs, caves, and canyon hikes

SPRINGS

Hot Springs Pool

World's largest hot springs pool. Two blocks long, naturally heated to 90-93°F. A smaller therapy pool reaches 104°F.

LAKE

Hanging Lake

Iconic Colorado hike to a turquoise lake with waterfalls. Permits required year-round. The 1.2-mile trail gains 1,000 feet.

CAVE

Glenwood Caverns

Cave tours plus mountaintop adventure park. Giant Canyon Swing, alpine coaster, and the Haunted Mine Drop—Colorado's first underground drop ride.

SPA

Iron Mountain

Premium hot springs resort with private pools and spa services. More intimate alternative to the main pool. Natural cave vapor caves.

RAFT

Whitewater Rafting

Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers offer rafting from family-friendly floats to Class IV rapids. Several outfitters operate from town.

HIKE

Hiking Trails

Glenwood Canyon trails, Grizzly Creek, and more. Explore beyond Hanging Lake with our complete hiking guide.

Plan Your Visit

Where to eat, stay, and explore nearby

EAT

Restaurants

From fine dining to casual pub fare. Where to eat after a day of soaking, hiking, and adventure.

STAY

Where to Stay

Historic hotels, hot springs lodges, and budget options. Use Glenwood as an affordable base for Aspen and Vail.

TRIP

Day Trips

Aspen, Maroon Bells, Vail, and more. Stay in Glenwood and explore the best of western Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Glenwood Springs visit

How far is Glenwood Springs from Denver?

About 160 miles, roughly 2.5 hours via I-70 in good traffic. It's a common stop when driving to Aspen (40 miles further) or returning from Vail (60 miles east).

Do I need a permit for Hanging Lake?

Yes, year-round. Permits must be reserved in advance through the city website. No walk-ups allowed. The $12 permit includes shuttle transportation.

Which hot springs is better?

The main Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is iconic and affordable—perfect for families. Iron Mountain offers a quieter, more upscale experience with private pools and riverside views. Both are excellent; many visitors do both.

Is Glenwood Springs good as a home base?

Yes, especially for budget-conscious travelers. You can day-trip to Aspen, Vail, and Maroon Bells while staying in more affordable Glenwood Springs lodging. It's a practical strategy for exploring western Colorado.

What's the best time to visit?

Summer and fall are busiest with the best weather. Winter offers a unique hot springs experience—soaking in hot water while snow falls around you. Spring has fewer crowds but some trails may be muddy.

How long should I stay?

At least one full day for the hot springs and Hanging Lake. Two to three days allows for rafting, Glenwood Caverns, and day trips to Aspen or Maroon Bells. A week makes Glenwood Springs a perfect base for exploring the region.

Explore the I-70 Corridor

Discover nearby mountain resorts