Glenwood Springs Visitor Guide
Discover Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a vibrant mountain town known for its world-famous hot springs and stunning natural surroundings.
Founded in 1883 as a health resort and railroad hub, the town quickly gained fame for its healing mineral waters and access to the Rocky Mountains. The outdoor lifestyle in Glenwood Springs is limitless, from skiing and snowboarding at Sunlight Mountain in the winter to hiking, biking, fishing, and rafting the Colorado River in the summer.
After a full day of adventure, visitors can soak in the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which are both fed by mineral-rich waters that have drawn travelers for generations. With its mix of recreation, relaxation, and small-town charm, Glenwood Springs is a true year-round destination.
Key Highlights:
- Vibrant downtown dining and shopping
- Colorado River and Glenwood Canyon
- Close to Aspen, Colorado
- Easy access to I-70 and Amtrak
- World-famous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Getting Here
Glenwood Springs is easily accessible by car, located off of I-70, a major east–west Interstate Highway. The town is also home to one of the most scenic Amtrak stops in the country, with the California Zephyr line passing directly through downtown.
For air travel, visitors can fly into nearby regional airports from Denver International Airport, including Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport near Vail, and Grand Junction Regional Airport.
Lodging Options
Stay close to the action. Whether you want slopeside convenience or downtown charm, Glenwood Springs has lodging for every traveler.
Located right above the base of Sunlight Mountain, this quaint and affordable ski-in ski-out complex is the best option for those who don’t want to commute to the mountain from Glenwood Springs.
In the warmer months, it also offers unbeatable access to some of Colorado’s top hiking and mountain biking trails, making it a year-round hub for outdoor adventure.
The historic Hotel Colorado offers vintage charm with modern comforts, placing guests steps away from the town’s famous hot springs and downtown attractions.
Through our Ski, Swim, Stay package, visitors can enjoy lift tickets, hot springs passes, and cozy lodging all bundled into one unforgettable Colorado getaway.
NOT FINDING THE LODGING OPTIONS FOR YOU?
Seasonal Activities
Winter in Glenwood Springs offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, anchored by skiing and snowboarding at family-friendly Sunlight Mountain.
Beyond the slopes, visitors can explore Nordic skiing, take guided snowmobile tours, or enjoy the quiet beauty of snowshoe winter hiking. After a day in the snow, there’s no better way to warm up and unwind than with a classic après-ski soak in the town’s world-famous hot springs.
- Skiing & Snowboarding at Sunlight Mountain
- Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails (and rentals!)
- Snowmobile tours and winter hiking
- Après-ski in Glenwood Springs hot springs
Summer in Glenwood Springs is filled with outdoor adventure, from mountain biking and hiking trails to exploring the rugged beauty around Sunlight Mountain. Thrill-seekers can dive into whitewater rafting, kayaking, and gold medal fly-fishing on the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, or take to the skies with paragliding. After an action-packed day, visitors can unwind with a rejuvenating soak in the area’s famous hot springs, a year-round highlight of the valley.
- Mountain biking and hiking at Sunlight
- Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing
- Paragliding and ziplining in the Glenwood area
- Hot springs relaxation year-round
Explore Downtown Glenwood
Downtown Glenwood Springs offers a lively blend of restaurants, breweries, and cozy cafés, where visitors can sample everything from local craft beer to gourmet dining. Charming boutiques and specialty shops line the streets, while galleries and performance spaces showcase the valley’s thriving arts scene.
With frequent festivals, live music, and community events, Glenwood’s culture and small-town charm are the epitome of mountain town vibes.
Tips for Planning Your Trip & FAQs
How and where do I rent skis, snowboards, and other equipment?
We recommend following the links on our website to reserve your gear ahead of time. You can pick up your gear at our downtown Glenwood Springs location, Sunlight Ski and Bike, or at our on-mountain rental shop right next to the slopes. Walk-ups are also welcome.
Is parking free?
Parking has been and will always be free at Sunlight.
What do I wear?
Check the weather and dress in layers. Great socks and gloves are the keys to a great day on the mountain. Ski pants and a jacket are a must. You can always take it off, but you can’t put it on if you don’t have it.
When do you open/close for the season?
Our official opening date is December 12th, but we always try to open early, and our closing date is April 5th.
How many lifts does Sunlight have?
Sunlight operates 3 lifts: Primo, Segundo, and Tercero.
Is Sunlight for Beginners?
Sunlight has excellent beginner terrain to hone your skills. Ski and snowboard lessons are available for all levels, helping you feel comfortable and confident on the slopes.
Is there tubing or other activities to do?
Tubing is coming soon, but we are not quite there yet. We should have it up and running by the 2026 or 2027 season. Options for other winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or professional hot chocolate drinking in the lodge.
