Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

## Overview Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, located in the heart of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is home to one of the most famous geothermal attractions in the American West. The resort sits along the banks of the Colorado River at the confluence with the Roaring Fork River, drawing its water from the Yampah Spring — a Ute word meaning "Big Medicine." The Yampah Spring is one of the largest natural hot springs in the world, producing approximately 3.5 million gallons of hot mineral water per day at a source temperature of around 122°F (50°C). The hot springs have a deep cultural history. The Ute people considered the springs sacred and used them for bathing and healing long before European settlers arrived. In the late 1800s, the springs were developed into a resort destination, and the iconic hot springs pool — the world's largest outdoor mineral hot springs pool — opened in 1888. The pool stretches over two city blocks (more than 405 feet long) and has been a beloved landmark for well over a century. Notable historical visitors have included President Theodore Roosevelt, who reportedly visited the area for its renowned waters. The mineral-rich water contains a blend of sulfate, chloride, sodium, calcium, and other trace minerals. Historically, the waters have been valued for their purported therapeutic and restorative properties, drawing visitors seeking relief from muscle aches, joint pain, and general relaxation. The large pool is maintained at approximately 90°F (32°C), while a smaller therapy pool is kept at around 104°F (40°C). Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is a developed, commercially operated facility located at 415 E. 6th St., Glenwood Springs, CO 81601. Admission fees apply, and the resort offers a range of amenities including a full-service spa, athletic club, lodge, and gift shop. ## Directions 1. **From Denver (approximately 160 miles west):** Take I-70 West through the Eisenhower Tunnel and Glenwood Canyon. Take Exit 116 for Glenwood Springs. 2. **From the exit**, follow Grand Avenue (CO-82) north across the Colorado River bridge into downtown Glenwood Springs. 3. **Turn right (east) onto 6th Street.** The resort and its large pool complex will be clearly visible on the north side of the road at 415 E. 6th St. 4. **Parking** is available on-site at the resort. The facility is also walkable from downtown Glenwood Springs and accessible via Amtrak (Glenwood Springs station is nearby). GPS coordinates: 39.549945, -107.322845 ## What to Expect Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is a fully developed hot springs destination, not a backcountry or primitive spring. Visitors will find a world-class facility with the massive main pool — over 405 feet long — filled with naturally heated mineral water, as well as a smaller, hotter therapy pool ideal for soaking. The pools are open year-round, and swimming in the steaming water during a snowy Colorado winter is a particularly memorable experience. The resort includes locker rooms, towel rentals, a water slide and splash zone for families, a full-service spa (Spa of the Rockies), a fitness center, and the on-site Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge for overnight stays. The facility is family-friendly and tends to be busiest on weekends and holidays, so visiting on weekday mornings can offer a more relaxed experience. The surrounding area of Glenwood Springs offers additional outdoor recreation, including Hanging Lake Trail, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, and the Glenwood Canyon bike path. The town itself has a charming downtown with restaurants, shops, and other hot springs options including Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves nearby. Note: This is a commercial facility with set hours of operation and admission pricing. It is recommended to check the resort's official website for current hours, rates, and any seasonal closures before planning your visit.