Best Guest Etiquette: How to Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs

Whether you’re five or 105, the geothermal waters in Glenwood Springs are a delight, but a few rules help keep it enjoyable for one and all.

Following some basic etiquette makes the hot springs soaking experience better for you and those around you. So, whether you’re visiting Glenwood Springs to soak in Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or Iron Mountain Hot Springs/WorldSprings, or steam in the Yampah Vapor Caves, let’s dive into these easy-to-follow guidelines.

It’s Not a Bathtub

Before you slip into the warm mineral springs, take a quick shower. While it’s tempting to jump right in, showering first helps remove dirt, sweat, lotions, and sunscreen that could spoil the soak for everyone else. In the warm weather months, Glenwood Hot Springs and Iron Mountain Hot Springs even have outdoor showers for extra convenience.

Keep Your Hair in Check

Long, flowing hair looks beautiful, but no one enjoys dodging stray strands in the water. If you’ve got long locks, do everyone a favor and tie your hair up in a bun or ponytail. It keeps the pools cleaner and enhances the experience for all.

Don’t Spoil the Critters

It may be tempting to toss that playful squirrel or marmot a French fry or share your afternoon charcuterie board with an adorable mama Mallard and her duckling brood, but please don’t feed the animals. It’s actually detrimental. When you feed them, they become reliant on human food and can even become a nuisance. So, please just consider them part of the ambiance to admire while you soak.

Leave the Bling at Home

While your necklace and rings are stunning accessories to be sure, hot spring water can tarnish certain metals. Instead of risking it, leave your jewelry at home or store it in your hotel room safe or provided locker while you soak.

Respect the Zones

Glenwood’s hot springs offer different areas for different activities. Want to splash around with inflatables or play a fun game of Nerf toss? Great! Just make sure you’re in the right spot. There are designated zones for aquatic play and for quiet relaxation. Being mindful of your surroundings so that everyone can enjoy their own kind of experience—whether it’s family fun or a serene soak.

Sip, Don’t Slosh

There’s nothing more thirst-quenching than a cold beer coupled with a relaxing soak after a long day of hiking or skiing. But remember, no one wants to share a pool with someone who’s had one too many. Please drink responsibly. Sloppy soaking isn’t just embarrassing, it might get you kicked out!

Check the PDA

Hot springs are romantic. Cuddling in the water under the night sky with the Milky Way as a backdrop is dreamy. But please keep it classy. A little affection is sweet, but if you’re making other guests uncomfortable, it’s time to cool the jets. Fun fact: some hot springs have a “no touching” rule. In Japan, men and women often soak separately. Thankfully, Glenwood’s hot springs aren’t that strict, but balance is key!

Stay Home if You’re Sick

If you’re feeling under the weather, have an infectious condition or an open wound, it’s best to sit this one out. Stay home, rest up, and save your soak for when you’re feeling better.

Swimwear, Please

Proper swim attire is a must! That means no underwear, street clothes, or pajamas. Remember, Glenwood’s hot springs are family-friendly attractions. Do your best to choose swimwear that won’t scandalize fellow pool-goers.

Be Camera Considerate

A good hot springs selfie is a fun memento of your vacation but remember—some folks are here for relaxation and might not want to be in the background of your next Instagram post. Locker rooms are another place where cell phones and photos are tightly restricted.

Ready, Set, Soak!

Now that you know the ropes, it’s time to soak! Glenwood’s hot springs might be a little more laid-back than some spots around the world, but following these simple guidelines guarantees everyone has a great time. So, grab your swimsuit and dive into a great day soaking at hot springs in Glenwood Springs. Learn more and make plans to visit today!