Soaking in 8 Wintertime Glenwood Springs Activities

1. Soaking. Lots of snow or low snow, fortunately soaking in Iron Mountain Hot Springs is not weather dependent. In a low snow year, like this one, choose one of the activities listed here, or just come steep for a few hours in our geothermal water for a relaxing alternative to a snow-packed winter day. There are 16 soaking pools and a family pool with an elevated spa; make the rounds and sample them all. If the sun is out, catch some rays; if the mercury drops, hunker down and stay toasty in the hot spring water.
2. Snowshoeing. While snow on the ski slopes has been sparse to date, there’s still plenty for stomping Sunlight Mountain Resort’s Nordic trails at Babbish Gulch. Spend an afternoon traipsing the resort’s woodland trails. Pack a lunch and stop at the “warming hut,” a tiny cabin that’s acts as landmark, and then follow the loop trail through pristine aspen and evergreen forests before reconnecting with the main trail.
3. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Hitting the slopes isn’t the only way to have a peak experience; in Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, America’s only mountain-top theme park is just a tram ride away. One fun feature of caves is their constant year-round temperature. Glenwood Caverns are a steady and mild 52°F. Follow guides into the depths of Iron Mountain to spectacular King’s Row, the most highly decorated cave room in Colorado. In addition to cave tours, try the park’s thrill rides like the new award-winning Haunted Mine Drop and guest favorite, the Alpine Coaster.
4. Biking. To the delight of road bikers, the temperate winter weather has extended the cycling season in Glenwood Springs. Hop on the Rio Grande Trail for a training ride or an outing with the kids on this railroad-grade paved path from Glenwood Springs to Aspen.
5. Fishing. According to the Vail Valley Anglers, some of the best winter fly-fishing takes place right here in Glenwood Springs on the lower Colorado River. Typically a warm season mainstay, fly-fishing float trips aren’t a top-of-mind winter activity but because the Colorado River is almost always ice-free, wintertime float trips can be a great way to put fish in nets. Plan to catch wild browns and rainbows that can measure over twenty inches!
6. Hanging Lake. Because snagging a parking space for this popular Colorado hiking trail is nearly impossible in the high season, off-season may be the best time to visit this cliff-hanging body of water. If you go, wear sturdy footwear, bring adequate hydration and follow all trail rules including no dogs and no fishing in the lake.
7. Visit Doc. John Henry “Doc” Holliday is one of Glenwood’s most famous former residents. The card-dealing sharp-shooter of OK Corral fame is buried in the hilltop Linwood Cemetery. Hike the short half-mile trail which starts at 12^th and Bennett to visit his grave marker and while you’re there, pay your respects to Glenwood’s other pioneer settlers. You can also visit the new Doc Holliday Museum located on the lower level of Bullock’s at Eighth St. and Grand Ave. The centerpiece of the collection is a derringer pistol purportedly given to Doc by his long-time sweetheart, Big Nose Kate.
8. Ice Skating. Even when the winter temps are balmy, you can still stage your own Ice Capades at the Glenwood Springs Recreation Center. The covered rink has public skating times almost every day. For some slip-sliding good fun, take the family or your sweetheart for a few laps around the ice.

We’re thrilled those big Colorado winter snowfalls are on the way. For the perfect après ski or après activity, come for a soak at Iron Mountain Hot Springs  in Glenwood Springs.