Glenwood Springs is located on the edge of Glenwood Canyon off Interstate 70. Glenwood Hot Springs, also known as "The Grand Spring" lies in the middle of the town and welcomes visitors from all over the country and world. Besides soaking in the mineral rich water of the pool, the Hot Springs also offer water slides, spa of the Rockies, mini golf and an athletic club. Campgrounds are available in the vicinity of the pools to accommodate overnight travelers.
History
The Ute Indians were the first to discover the hot springs and named the waters "Yampah" meaning "big medicine." After hearing stories about the "healing" waters, Captain Richard Sopris arrived in 1860. The springs and adjoining land were purchased in 1880 by Walter Horace and James Devereux among others. In 1888, the pool was built, accommodating 3.5 million gallons of naturally hot mineral water. The bathhouse and lodge were added in 1890. The springs did close during World War II so the U.S. Naval Convalescent Hospital could use the grounds and the pool. When the war was over, the hospital continued until 1950. Since the 1950s, renovations and additions have been done to modernize the area.
Hot Springs Vapor Caves
The Hot Springs Vapor Caves sit alongside the Colorado River on the east entrance to Glenwood Springs. The caves tap into the same healing waters as the Hot Springs, only visitors enjoy the baths underground. The Ute Indians used one of the caves until 1887 when the railroad sealed off the entrance. The Vapor Caves not only offer soothing waters underground but also massages, facials, mud treatments and natural mineral baths.
Campgrounds
All types of camping are available in the vicinity of Glenwood Springs, including tent, RV and cabins. Glenwood Canyon Resort is located a few miles from Glenwood Springs along the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon. Private river access is featured along with access to the 16-mile Glenwood Canyon recreational trail. Shuttle service is available from the campground to the Hot Springs.
Remote Camping and State Parks
White River National Forest offers camping sites for hearty campers in remote areas. The turn off to the sites are within a half-hour drive of Glenwood near the town of Gypsum. Most sites do not offer RV hookups or flush toilets because of the remote location and sit at 10,000 feet. The Colorado State Parks website also lists state parks near Rifle, Colorado--30 minutes from Glenwood Springs--that offers camping along Rifle Gap Reservoir.
Backpacking Tips
Campers wishing to explore the Colorado back country near Glenwood Springs can follow several tips to lighten their load and make their experience more enjoyable. Pack the right equipment starting with a light backpack and tent. Survival kits are a mandatory item to include in your backpack. Load items in a plastic bag such as first aid kits, fire starting devices, water purification tablets, a knife, whistle and compass. Become acclimated to the high altitude found in Colorado's back country by spending at least a day in Glenwood Springs, especially if arriving from sea level or lower elevations.
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