Vacations are the perfect time to try a few new-to-you activities. Give your summer getaway to Glenwood Springs a boost with out-of-the-box experiences that are a blast for the whole family.
Not only is summertime ideal for a warm-weather family vacation, it’s also prime time to experiment with new hobbies and activities. As Colorado’s top hot springs and recreation destination in the mountains, Glenwood Springs has options for all those looking to expand their fun-time horizons.
Spin Cycle
Glenwood Springs has miles of paved trails for cycling. Rent bikes, including e-bikes, by the hour, the day or longer from area outfitters, then get into gear for a beautiful ride through some of the most stunning scenery in Colorado. Rio Grande Trail follows the Roaring Fork River from Glenwood Springs to Aspen, connecting all the towns in between. Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path glides along the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon with stops at four rest areas that offer restrooms, fresh drinking water and picnic spots. For those with limited time, some bike rental outfitters provide a shuttle service, so you only have to pedal one way.
Tip: Purchase Hanging Lake permits to hike to the cliffside lake and falls, just be sure to lock up bikes at the trailhead; rental companies can supply bike locks.
Hit Refresh
Take your crew on an unforgettable whitewater rafting trip through Glenwood Canyon for a summertime splash they won’t soon forget. They’ll have the opportunity to paddle rapids with fierce sounding names like “Superstition” and “Maneater.” Depending on water levels, guides may even “pull over” for an impromptu soak in wild hot springs that pop up along the banks of the Colorado River. Tailor your trip to suit your sense of adventure; Glenwood’s rafting companies offer many different options for whitewater thrills.
Upwardly Mobile
If you’ve always been curious about rock climbing, Glenwood Springs is the perfect place to get a grip on this sport. Glenwood Climbing Guides leads trips for all ages and abilities, no experience necessary. Learn the ropes at the Puoux (pronounced “pukes”), a limestone sport crag in Glenwood Canyon or try the famed climbing routes in nearby Rifle Mountain Park. Guides provide all the required gear, as well as instruction. En route, keep an eye out for the wildlife, Colorado bighorn sheep also like climbing these parts!
Fire Away
How’s your aim? Find out on the range at a private ranch in Glenwood Canyon. If you’ve always wanted to shoot a pump-action shotgun, this is your chance. Shooting sporting clays presents a challenge for all levels of experience. Experts offer instruction and tips for hitting the fast-moving clay pigeons. Kids 13 and younger can also get in on the action with target practice using BB guns.
Hook, Line & Sinker
Anglers of all abilities can learn something new from fly fishing outfitters in Glenwood Springs. Both challenging and relaxing, the sport offers a wonderful opportunity to bond with friends and family while floating or shore fishing the waterways of the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys. Catching a trophy-sized trout is always a thrill, and anglers fishing the area’s Gold Medal designated waters have a better than average chance of hooking a lunker. In addition to supplying all the gear, outfitters know the best fishing holes and match flies to the hatch on any given day.
Catch Air 
Spread your wings and see Glenwood Springs from a whole new perspective with a tandem paragliding experience. Ride the summer thermals high above the hot springs town like the soaring eagles that inhabit the area. With your expert guide in control, you’ll launch from the top of Red Mountain. While that first step is a doozy, it won’t take long for the exhilaration to override any anxiety, especially as you notice the spectacular views. As you descend, you’ll gently circle above the Roaring Fork River before coming to a landing in a large open field.
Get your groove on this summer in Glenwood Springs with new-to-you activities!
Learn more by downloading the official Glenwood Springs Travel Guide today.
