by Michele Kadison

Even better than your fantasy home-away-from-home, Glenwood Springs is one of the most relaxing towns in the Colorado Rockies. Surrounded by water, the town is a virtual paradise for anyone needing to slough off the stresses of major city life.

Take a steam bath in the Yampeh Vapor Caves, used by the Ute Indians to heal and rejuvenate themselves over 100 years ago. In Ute, Yampeh means “big medicine,” which the caves have proven to be for many a visitor since the 1880s. Hot spring spas are all over Glenwood Springs and are ideal for spending the day soaking your cares away. There’s even a water slide at one of them, so bring the whole family!

Check out Glenwood Springs’ fascinating history with a visit to the old cemetery. Here you will find Doc Holliday’s tombstone, amongst many others dating back to that time. Take a look at the Hotel Colorado, which many say is haunted. Take a ghost tour there and see for yourself if the rumor is true! There is also a wonderful museum in town where you can find out all the local lore that makes Glenwood Springs, Colorado such an interesting town to visit.

With the Colorado River rushing right through the town, you can take a rafting trip and enjoy the sights of the Colorado Rockies along the way. Hiking and biking are other great pastimes, with the Hanging Lake Trail being one of the locals’ favorites for a steep trek into the Alpine woodlands. Once you arrive at the top, you’re in for a real treat. Glenwood Caverns and Fairy Cave is also not to be missed. There you will see stalactites and stalagmites galore. Sign up for one of the spelunking tours and really go underground!

Directions:
Glenwood Springs is an easy 2.5-hour drive west of Denver on Interstate 70, and 1.5 hours east of Grand Junction on Interstate 70.

Travel resources:
Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association
970-945-6589

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