Quick Info
Pools: 16 soaking pools, varying temperatures. Setting: Riverside with mountain views. Vibe: Adults-focused, quieter than main pool. Price: ~$35 adults. Reservations: Recommended, especially weekends.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs opened in 2015 as Glenwood Springs' upscale alternative to the historic main pool. Instead of one massive pool, you get 16 smaller soaking pools at different temperatures, all overlooking the Colorado River. The atmosphere is calmer, the crowds are smaller, and the experience feels more like a spa than a public swimming pool.
The springs draw from the same geothermal source that feeds the main Glenwood pool, but the experience is completely different. This is where you come to truly relax.
The Pools
Sixteen freshwater mineral pools are arranged along the riverbank, each with a different temperature between 98°F and 108°F. The variety means you can find your perfect heat level and move between pools as your mood changes.
Jetted pools: Several pools have jets targeting sore muscles. Perfect after hiking Hanging Lake or skiing Aspen.
Family pool: One larger pool is designated for families with children. The rest are adults-preferred, keeping the atmosphere peaceful.
Riverside pools: The pools closest to the Colorado River have the best views. Watch kayakers and rafters pass by while you soak.
The Experience
Iron Mountain is designed for relaxation. No swimming laps, no diving, no waterslides. Just soaking, talking quietly, and watching the river flow by.
Food and drink: A full bar serves beer, wine, and cocktails that you can enjoy poolside. Light food is available. Sipping a drink while soaking in 105°F water with mountain views—that's the Iron Mountain experience.
Sunset sessions: Evening visits are especially popular. The pools stay open until 9 or 10pm depending on season, and watching the sun set over the canyon while soaking is memorable.
Crowd level: Smaller and less crowded than the main pool. Weekday mornings are quietest. Weekend evenings can get busy—book a reservation to guarantee entry.
Iron Mountain vs. Main Pool
Both hot springs are excellent, but they're different experiences.
Choose Iron Mountain if: You want a quieter, more intimate experience. You're traveling without kids. You prefer multiple pools at different temperatures. You want to drink cocktails while soaking. You're willing to pay more for atmosphere.
Choose the main pool if: You want the iconic, bucket-list experience. You're traveling with kids. You want to swim laps. You prefer the historic atmosphere. You want to save money.
Do both: Many visitors do the main pool one day and Iron Mountain the next. They're different enough to warrant two visits.
Tips
Book ahead. Especially for weekend visits. Capacity is limited and popular time slots fill up.
Arrive early or late. Midday is busiest. Morning openings and sunset sessions offer the best combination of availability and atmosphere.
Bring a robe. Moving between pools in cool air, a robe helps. Robes are also available to rent.
Hydrate. Just like the main pool, hot water dehydrates you. Drink water between cocktails.
No phones in pools. Phones are allowed on the property but not in the water. It's actually nice to disconnect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are kids allowed?
Yes, in the family pool. Other pools are adults-preferred. It's a quieter atmosphere than the main pool, so families with young children may prefer the other option.
Do I need reservations?
Strongly recommended for weekend visits. Weekdays are more flexible, but booking guarantees your spot.
How long can I stay?
Admission is for 2-hour sessions. Most people find 2 hours is enough—you'll be relaxed and pruned by then.
What about the sulfur smell?
Less noticeable than the main pool. The smaller pools and riverside location help dissipate the smell.
Can I bring my own food/drinks?
No. Food and drinks are available on-site. The poolside bar is part of the experience.