Hot Springs, rivers, and lakes, oh my! Glenwood Springs has them all. Each one provides an iconic summer experience—from geothermal soaking in the hot springs and whitewater rafting on the Colorado River to paddleboarding on the area’s reservoirs—but with any water-based activity safety is essential. Follow these tips for a happy hydro-centric adventure in Glenwood Springs.
1. Hot Springs Soaking Pointers
Glenwood Springs is Colorado’s destination for famous and fabulous geothermal attractions like the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and Iron Mountain Hot Springs/WorldSprings. Soaking in these mineral-rich waters can be incredibly relaxing and therapeutic but taking a few precautions can help ensure that the day ends well for one and all.
• Stay Hydrated. Soaking in hot water can be unexpectedly dehydrating. Avoid heat-related illnesses, by staying hydrated throughout your day at the pool. Drink plenty of water or, even better an electrolyte-rich beverage.
• Limit Soaking Time. Restrict your soaking sessions to the recommended 15-20 minutes. While some pools are slightly below body temperature, others top out at a toasty 108˚F. Take breaks to cool down and recover, especially if you start to feel dizzy.
• Avoid Alcohol. While alcoholic beverages may be available at Glenwood’s hot springs amenities, the consumption of booze can rapidly increase dehydration and lightheadedness. If you do choose to drink, do so responsibly. Limit yourself to one or two drinks over several hours.
2. Essential River Reminders
The Colorado River runs through Glenwood Canyon, offering visitors opportunities for thrilling whitewater rafting experiences. However, rivers can be unpredictable. For a trip that’s memorable for all the right reasons, follow these guidelines.
• Hire a Guide. Choose one of Glenwood’s rafting companies to take you on a whitewater expedition of a lifetime down the Colorado River. Local guides are experts at handling and navigating rafts. They’re also professionals versed in reading the river and familiar with the various hydraulics (also known as rapids), which morph and change depending on river flows.
• Listen Up. Pay attention during the safety talk before your launch. Outfitters will provide all the gear you need including a well-fitted personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet. They will also go over instructions on how to paddle, various situations that could arise, and what to do in the unlikely event you get pitched overboard.
3. Reservoir Recommendations
While Glenwood Springs is more famous for its hot springs and rivers, the region’s reservoirs nearby including Ruedi, Harvey Gap, and Rifle Gap, beckon during the summer months. Rent a paddleboard or bring your own, just be sure to follow these tips for unsupervised water fun.
• No Guard on Duty. When you venture out on the area’s lakes or reservoirs, be aware there will be no lifeguards watching over you. You proceed at your own risk so taking personal safety seriously is paramount.
• Wear a Life Jacket. Unlike undulating rivers, big bodies of water offer a serene opportunity to paddle and enjoy the scenery, but there are still risks involved. No matter your swimming ability, always wear a life jacket to ensure your safety. Even strong swimmers can encounter unexpected issues.
• Be Cold Water Cautious. When your body suddenly hits water, “cold shock” can cause dramatic changes in breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The sudden gasp and rapid breathing alone can create a greater risk of drowning even for confident swimmers in calm waters. If you accidentally fall into the water while paddling, wearing a PFD will help you stay at the surface and climb back on board.
• Use the Buddy System. Don’t venture out alone. Having a buddy ensures that someone is there to help in case of an emergency.
Make a Safe Splash in Glenwood Springs
By taking water safety seriously and following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself, your family, and your friends. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs, rafting down the Colorado River, or paddling on the lake, remember to put safety first. Have fun, stay safe, and make a splash in Glenwood Springs this summer!
