Shoulder-season, the period between now and the onset of the holidays, is an idyllic time for a quick getaway to Glenwood Springs. With fewer travelers on the road, Glenwood’s top hot springs attractions are also less crowded this time of year.
Summer is a memory, and the holidays have not yet arrived. For anyone who wants a little extra space to spread out, the gap in seasons and occasions is a perfect time to enjoy Glenwood Springs’ trio of hot springs. The natural lull in travel at this time of year affords visitors who do decide to hit the road, the luxury of more solitude and space.
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves are bustling destinations in Glenwood Springs nearly all year long, but there are times when visitation ebbs naturally. The period between mid-fall and early winter is one of those times. Children are still in school, ski resorts are awaiting the first big snowfall, and many people are holding out for holiday travel—all great reasons to partake in Glenwood’s glorious hot springs!
Children are a joy, but when they are in school, there’s less splashing and more quiet time at Glenwood Hot Springs Pool. While the resort’s therapy pool is always a calm environment for hot springs relaxation, at the height of summer the big pool can be a playground of Nerf balls and giant floating alligators. Not so in October, November and early December. While you may encounter an inflatable reptile or two, you’ll also find there is optimal space to float, walk the length of the big pool, converse with fellow pool-goers and even swim laps at a leisurely pace.
Pre-Après Ski.
Glenwood’s hometown area, Sunlight Mountain Resort, won’t open until the first frosty front moves in and leaves behind a foot or more of snow, usually by early December. Until then, you can still enjoy all the benefits of après ski at Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Featuring more than two dozen mineral soaking pools terraced on a hillside overlooking the Colorado River, visitors can choose the one that’s just right for them. Temperatures range from a mild 98˚F to a toasty 108˚F. What makes Iron Mountain Hot Springs ideal for pre-apres ski, is the perk of sipping your favorite craft beer, wine or cocktail while you soak. Take advantage of post-slope relaxation long before the lifts start running!
Time to Travel.
Many families and individuals are biding their time to travel. It makes sense, with the holidays ahead, to coordinate travel with Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, for those with more flexible schedules, taking advantage of the calm before the chaos has its benefits. Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves features three underground chambers lined with marble benches and filled with steam from the source spring. The natural cave steam baths are a great way to decompress, as are massages and body treatments available in the upstairs salon. Booking an appointment is less challenging now than during peak times at this popular wellness destination.
Whether you call it shoulder-season, off-peak or downtime with fewer people, October, November and December are among the best times to soak and steam in Glenwood Springs. Learn more and make plans to visit today!
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