People flock to Glenwood Springs to get healthy. The western Colorado city of 9,000 features natural spas with supposed healing powers. Visitors can pamper themselves in a number of soothing body treatments. If that’s not your thing, Glenwood Springs has a range of outdoor activities that please sportsmen and wildlife lovers.
Spas
Glenwood Springs has the world’s largest natural hot springs pool, according to the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association. The eight spas in town use mineral water drawn from the springs for mineral baths and massages. Visitors also get rejuvenated by breathing in steam vapor produced by the Vapor Caves. The cave’s temperatures average between 110 and 112 degrees, according to the Yampah Spa. Visitors are allowed several visits that last 10 to 12 minutes before resting in a cooling room or solarium.
Fishing
Glenwood Springs is also renowned in fishing circles. Field & Stream named it one of “The Best Fishing Towns in America.” The publication called it “the hub of Colorado fishing.” People looking to fly fish have the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork in Glenwood Springs. Fishing day trips include visits to the Gunnison River, the Frying Pan River and the Eagle River.
Water Sports
Kayakers come to the Colorado River for Class III and Class IV rapids. The Glenwood Whitewater Park is a man-made wave feature built in the river. In May 2009, the area hosted the U.S. Freestyle Kayaking Team Trials. The Colorado River and the Roaring Fork Rivers are also ideal for rafting trips. Half a dozen companies give guided tours down the rivers.
National Forest
The White River National Forest has its headquarters in Glenwood Springs. The 2.3 million-acre park has eight wilderness areas, including the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness section near Glenwood Springs. The 181,117-acre stretch includes 100 miles of hiking trails and six peaks above 14,000 feet for climbers.
Museums
Take a break from the outdoor activities by learning about the area. The Frontier Historical Museum tells the history of Garfield County and the city, which was founded on July 23, 1869. Notable moments in Glenwood Springs’ history include a visit from Vice President Theodore Roosevelt in February 1901. The historic Glenwood Springs Railroad Station houses the Glenwood Railroad Museum. The venue includes memorabilia from the seven railroads that once served the area and it has a steam locomotive on display.
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