Late summer is peak season to partake in Glenwood Springs activities that once the weather cools down go into hibernation. August and September are ripe for making the most of what’s left of idyllic summer weather in the Colorado mountains.
Like strawberries in June, cherries in July, peaches and sweet corn in August, outdoor activities have their ideal season. As fall approaches, the days are numbered to participate in certain summer-themed pursuits. Before the mercury plummets, add these activities to your Glenwood Springs itinerary today.
Rafting
Enjoy the waning days of summer whitewater rafting the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon. By this point in the season, flows have tapered off and the river, while still exciting with an abundance of roiling rapids, is more gentle and welcoming especially for families with young children. Lower water levels also make in-river hot springs more accessible and enjoyable for late-season rafters. The Glenwood Springs rafting season lasts through September.
Paragliding
Warm temps give rise to lofty updrafts that enhance the paragliding experience in August and September. These updrafts or thermals are generated when the sun heats the ground and the air above it. As a result, plumes of warm air rise and create conditions for paragliders to stay airborne longer. In Glenwood Springs, paragliders take off from the summit of Red Mountain, soar high above the Roaring Fork River below and land in a large open field next to the river.
Extreme rides
Glenwood Caverns is home to a handful of thrill rides that keep adrenaline junkies coming back for more. The latest addition to grace the mountain-top theme park is a roller coaster called Defiance, the highlight of which is a straight-down, free-fall plunge. Except for the Alpine Coaster that is open year-round, the park’s other scream-inducing motion machines including the Giant Canyon Swing, Cliffhanger Roller Coaster, Soaring Eagle Zip Ride and Glenwood Canyon Flyer are operational depending on the weather. Once overnight temperatures drop to a certain point, most of the rides close for the season. Summer is the last chance for a mid-week ticket to ride.
Golf
The golfing season lasts a bit longer than these other Glenwood Springs activities. If the forecast cooperates, it’s certainly possible to hit the greens until the snow starts to fly in November. Whether you live for golf or haven’t gotten out on the course yet, summer is prime time for playing golf. Consider it your ace-in-the-hole activity for summer fun with amazing views. The sport makes the most of gorgeous days, the turf is in prime condition and the bar is open and serving something cold at the end of every round.
Outdoor Dining
Nothing is more of a tribute to living the good life on vacation than eating a delicious meal outdoors under the shade of a colorful umbrella. Since the pandemic, many of the restaurants in Glenwood Springs offer the option of dining al fresco. Watch the world go by as you savor a bite to eat in fresh-air dining spaces around town that include beautiful courtyards, tucked-away rooftops and urban sidewalk seating.
Summer days are here now. Make the most of them with activities that take advantage of the exceptional weather. Learn more and make plans to visit Glenwood Springs today!
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