Embrace the final sun-drenched days of summer in Glenwood Springs without breaking a sweat! When the mercury soars, this curated list of cool activities will keep you refreshed and energized for the duration.
Summer may be winding down, but some of the warmest days of the year are on the horizon. Take a break from the heat on your Glenwood Springs vacation with these keep-cool activities.
Geothermal Oasis: Hot Springs to Cool Off
Dive into different waters at Glenwood’s geothermal attractions. Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and Iron Mountain Hot Springs may be known for their high-temp therapeutic mineral water, but both properties offer cool-water alternatives to hot springs soaking. At Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, take a thrilling ride down Shoshone Chutes as many times as you like. The ride and the entire freshwater Sopris Splash Zone are included with admission. The fast-moving river ride will leave you feeling exhilarated. Alternatively, head to Iron Mountain Hot Springs where outdoor cold showers and a freshwater family pool keep the heat in check. The resort’s newly opened UpRiver section also offers multiple options to feel cucumber cool, including two Confluence pools with temps in the mid 80s to low 90s and a bracing cold plunge pool at 55°F.
Ride the Rapids: Whitewater Rafting in Glenwood Canyon
Combine an adrenaline rush with respite from the heat. Spend a day whitewater rafting on the picturesque Roaring Fork River or the Colorado River through stunning Glenwood Canyon. As you paddle, the water of the rivers that is from mountain snowmelt will keep you cool from start to finish. For a splash-packed adventure, opt for the guided whitewater rafting trip that begins below the Shoshone Power Plant in Glenwood Canyon. The Class III-IV rapids there are among the first you’ll encounter en route downriver and are a sure bet to soak you from head to toe right from the get-go.
Subterranean Escapade: Explore the Caves
Escape the midday sun and head underground where the temperature hovers at a blissful 52˚F year-round. In addition to daunting, over-the-edge thrill rides, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers cave tours that provide instant cold-pack-like relief from the heat. Step into the King’s Row Tour or the Fairy Caves Tour and feel the cool, slightly moist air envelop you while marveling at spectacular and pristine formations like cave bacon, flowstone, popcorn, soda straws and aragonite crystals.
Frozen Delights: Cool Cocktails and Ice Cream
Quench your thirst and chill out with a selection of icy delights at eating and drinking establishments in Glenwood Springs. Sip on a super cold and delicious frozen cocktail including margaritas, piña coladas, strawberry daiquiris and more at various bars around town. Alternatively, visit one of Glenwood’s breweries or tap rooms. Cold craft beer poured into a chilled glass on a hot day will also do the trick.
And of course, there’s ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet! Explore a rainbow of flavors at various ice cream parlors and sweet shops in Glenwood Springs. Whether you prefer it in a cone or a cup, sweet or tart, and with or without toppings, you’ll find mouthwatering options to suit your cravings.
Cool Vibes in Glenwood Springs
When the temperature spikes, keep cool and make the most of your summer vacation in Glenwood Springs. Learn more and make plans to visit Glenwood Springs today!
Download the official Glenwood Springs Travel Guide
