With the arrival of autumn, nature paints a breathtaking tapestry that captures the heart and invites visitors to fall in love with fall in Glenwood Springs.
Hot Springs Soaking: A Warm Embrace
Begin your autumn love affair in Glenwood Springs with a luxurious dip in the town’s renowned hot springs. Let the warmth of the mineral-rich waters envelop you, melting away the cares of the day. Whether you choose to soak in the historic Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, unwind riverside at Iron Mountain Hot Springs with its newly opened UpRiver adults-only area, or experience an all-natural steam bath at Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves, indulging in Glenwood’s geothermal amenities is like being wrapped in a warm embrace or your favorite cozy blanket. Either way, it’s a comforting experience you’re sure to fall for.
Fishing: When Playing Hard to Get is Good
Angling on the region’s Gold Medal waters rife with rainbow trout is a dance of flirtation in fall. With less pressure on the aquatic population, it’s an optimal time to hook a trophy trout. Keep in mind, the fish have been eating well all summer long. It’s not just a matter of tempting them with an enticing fly or colorful lure, presentation is a key factor to success as well. With a little luck and the right technique, you’ll have no trouble reeling in one after another. For a catch of the day that’s guaranteed, however, connect with local fishing guides to book float and wading trips or simply check in with local pros for friendly up-to-the-minute fishing advice.
Trails: Engage Your Senses
Whether you are hiking or biking on Glenwood Springs trails, each step and turn of the wheel offers an artistic rendering of the landscape that’s even more ephemeral than a Snapchat message. As you journey along the trail and as the light changes, so do the views. Look for snowcapped peaks and sparkling rivers that seem to morph and shift in the autumn sunlight. Hiking and biking trails, both paved and rugged, abound in the hot springs town and offer visitors the opportunity for a close encounter with nature. For hiking, try Hanging Lake and Doc Holliday trails. Favorite mountain biking trails include Grandstaff and Scout, while Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path and the Rio Grande Trail are great options for fall riding on skinny tires.
Paragliding: Love in the Air
Autumn love takes flight in the most exhilarating way with a paragliding adventure in Glenwood Springs. Prepare to be breathless, not only from the stunning panoramas of the Roaring Fork River Valley but also from the sheer thrill of the first leap. Just like falling in love, the initial step off the launch site atop Red Mountain is a doozy, but the reward is worth it. On your tandem flight with an expert pilot, you’ll soar on lofty thermals and feel the lift and freedom of flying before touching down in an open meadow along the bank of the Roaring Fork River.
Rafting: Heart-Pumping Thrills
For adrenaline thrills that surpass the first blush of love, embark on a whitewater expedition in Glenwood Springs this fall. Rafting on the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon is a stimulating experience from start to finish. Paddle whitewater rapids amid some of the most scenic topography in the state. If this is your first foray into the waters of the Colorado, breathe easy but hang on tight. Glenwood’s experienced raft guides know the river landscape, and while you may get soaked from head to toe, they’ll expertly navigate you through all kinds of whitewater from bumpy riffles to bodacious hydraulics.
Breweries: Raising a Toast to Hoppy Fall Days
When it comes to cultivating a perfectly crafted relationship built on a foundation of passion, Glenwood’s hometown breweries and restaurant taps offer an array of options to delight your palate. Local brewers put their heart and soul into brewing high-quality craft beer and have won a slew of awards for their suds. Whether you prefer delicately balanced brews or unexpectedly quirky concoctions, there is a perfect pour waiting for you in Glenwood Springs. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of them this fall, from fruit-heavy sours and creamy coffee-tinged stouts to perky pilsners and crisp kolsches.
Outdoor Dining: Savoring Flavors in the Open Air
Glenwood Springs offers delectable dining experiences amidst the splendor of autumn. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the hot springs’ town, savor the flavors of dinner al fresco at one of the many restaurants with outdoor dining options. Whether you choose a rooftop venue or a charming garden patio, settle in for a full course of scrumptiousness from appetizers to after-dinner drinks, all while basking in the exquisite beauty of the fall surroundings.
Fall Color Drives: Admiring Beauty
Finally, for an autumn you can’t help but fall for, there’s nothing like a leaf-peeping drive from Glenwood Springs to provide a jaw-dropping vision of beauty you won’t soon forget. Two highly recommended routes include Independence Pass to the Continental Divide near Aspen and McClure Pass between Redstone and Paonia. Mile after mile, each twist and turn in the road reveals a colorful new vista and fall photo op.
Fall for Glenwood Springs Today
Like love, autumn in Glenwood Springs has the power to ignite your senses and imagination, whether it be for a grand action-packed adventure, a satisfying meal or the pleasure of deep relaxation. Fall in love with fall in Glenwood Springs. Learn more and make plans to visit today!
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