Snow, and lots of it, is the star of the show when it comes to winter sports in Glenwood Springs. Get in on the action by partaking in primetime winter activities.
Blanketed with snow, thanks to a flurry of recent storms, Glenwood Springs is taking winter recreation to task—on the slopes, trails, rinks, rivers and hot springs! Schedule a personal snow day or arrange a few days off for the whole family. From skiing and snowmobiling to winter soaking, engage in your favorite activities or try something new. Whatever you decide, just get out there and have a (snow)ball!
Sunlight Mountain Resort
Some of the best family-friendly skiing and riding can be found at Sunlight Mountain Resort. A best-kept Colorado secret, the hometown hill features one of the longest runs in Colorado (Ute), as well as some of the steepest (East Ridge runs), but most of the terrain falls in the middle, a sweet spot of groomed beginner and intermediate slopes. What makes Sunlight shine brightest, however, even on rare cloudy days, is a welcoming staff of slopeside professionals, free parking and affordable lift tickets.
Winter Hiking
Surrounded by mountains and a network of trails, getting outside for a quick saunter or a more rigorous uphill climb are easy options for winter recreation in Glenwood Springs. Snowshoe on the Babbish Gulch Trails at Sunlight Mountain Resort. Trails closer to town, such as Red Mountain, Wulfsohn, Scout or Doc Holliday are better suited to winter traction cleats such as Yaktrax, which provide sturdy footing on surfaces that may range from snowy to icy. Hiking poles fitted with baskets also can help hikers stay upright, balanced and safe.
Nordic & Cross Country
Slide and glide your way to a good time with traditional cross-country skiing in Glenwood Springs and the area. Spring Gulch Trail System in nearby Carbondale offers 21km of groomed Nordic track for use exclusively by skinny ski enthusiasts. In Glenwood, try Babbish Gulch at Sunlight Mountain Resort or make your own fresh tracks at area golf courses. Equipment rentals are available at sporting goods stores in Glenwood Springs.
Snowmobiling
Let the throttle out on a mountain of fun. Snowmobiling is your ticket to ride through the backcountry surrounding Sunlight Mountain. Wide-open meadows are padded with feet of snow and a perfect place to play in the powder. Groomed trails meander through wooded areas and lead to gorgeous overlooks. Make reservations for snowmobiling tours well in advance as they book up quickly. As for what to wear, think snow: insulated boots, pants, jackets and gloves. Helmets provided by the outfitter keep noggins safe and warm.
Snow soaking
That’s what we call wintertime hot springs bathing. Despite cold temperatures, the frostier months are a preferred time for taking a dip in the thermal waters in Glenwood Springs. The only time you’ll feel the chill is before you are actually immersed! Once the geothermal water warms you from the outside in, you’ll be able to walk around comfortably in just your swimsuit. Both Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Glenwood Hot Springs Pool are open daily and well into the evening for post-activity R&R. Be sure to make an advanced reservation to soak at Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
Ice skating
Sharpen your skates and skills on the covered outdoor ice rink at Glenwood Springs Recreation Center. The National Hockey League-sized venue offers public skate times and drop-in hockey. It’s the perfect place to go a few rounds on the ice with the kiddos, practice your figure eights or show off your offensive moves. The cost of admission and skate rentals are nominal.
Winter Fishing
Who says angling is just for summer? Some of the best Glenwood Springs fishing occurs in the least likely of seasons: winter. Sunny days are ideal for floating the Roaring Fork River with a guide or independently casting from shore. Of course, the fish are still biting and with less pressure on aquatic populations, your odds for reeling them in are much improved.
Chilly temps, lots of snow and plenty of winter activities to enjoy, it’s the perfect forecast for winter fun! Learn more and plan your visit to Glenwood Springs today!
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