All aboard Rocky Mountaineer, the luxury rail line is now making a two-night stopover in Glenwood Springs. Explore on foot or use local transportation to make the most of your stay in Colorado’s favorite hot springs town.
A bucket-list experience, the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route is an unforgettable journey that travels through some of the West’s most iconic scenery. Starting in June 2025, the company will add two new packages with an extended two-day stop in Glenwood Springs—an opportunity for train travelers to explore the sights, including geothermal amenities, plentiful outdoor activities, and a diverse dining scene.
Even without a car, exploring Glenwood Springs is effortless. The historic Glenwood Springs Train Depot sits in the heart of downtown, close to hotels, restaurants, and attractions. For destinations beyond walking range, “The Downtowner”, a new on-demand shuttle service, makes getting around a breeze.
Two Rocky Mountaineer Itineraries
Choose from two Rocky Mountaineer trips that coast between Denver and Glenwood Springs—a 5-day, 4-night trip or a 3-day, 2-night excursion. Either way, travelers spend two nights and one full day in Glenwood Springs. The five-day trip is ideal for those needing hotel accommodations in Denver, while the 3-day trip is perfect for Front Range and Denver area residents.
To prepare for all that awaits Rocky Mountaineer riders, these recommendations will help travelers make the most of a 2-day stay in town.
Experience Hot Springs & More
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool/Athletic Club. The iconic resort features two enormous warm mineral spring pools. While visiting, don’t miss the Yampah Mineral Baths, a collection of five pools designed to stimulate the senses. For those who want to log a few miles or pump some iron, the resort’s Athletic Club features fitness equipment, a steam room, racquetball courts, and more.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs/WorldSprings. If you have your heart set on visiting Iron Mountain Hot Springs, make an online reservation for a three-hour soaking experience in advance. The geothermal hot spot offers two unique experiences. The family-friendly Legacy pools and WorldSprings, catering to those 21 and over. Iron Mountain Hot Springs is the perfect destination to hail The Downtowner, an on-demand shuttle accessible via the Ride Roaring Fork app.
Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves. Another gem within walking distance, the Vapor Caves can add another layer of luxury to your travel experience with a massage or head-to-toe spa treatment. Book treatments ahead of your arrival in town. Admission to the historic, underground vapor caves is included with spa treatments.
Three Glenwood Springs Outdoor Adventures to Try
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Satisfy your sense of adventure with thrill rides and cave tours at the nation’s only mountaintop theme park. Cave tours delve into the underground landscape, while up top, thrill rides take exhilaration to new heights.
Cycling the Rio Grande Trail. Pedal this path that follows the Roaring Fork River. A rails-to-trails project, the paved surface is smooth with a gentle incline. If you need a power boost or don’t want to break a sweat, rent an e-bike for effortless uphill gliding.
History Walk to Doc Holliday’s Memorial. Explore the town’s association with famed gambler and gunslinger John “Doc” Holliday, buried in Linwood Cemetery, the old pioneer graveyard. A short hike from town, it’s tradition to pay respects with a few coins. While in town, stop by other Doc sites, including the Doc Holliday Collection and the Doc Holliday Tavern for a post-hike beer.
Charming, Vibrant, and Walkable
With just a glance around, you’ll notice that Glenwood has a “look.” The same locally quarried red sandstone used on the train depot is duplicated at other landmarks, including the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and the Hotel Colorado.
Seventh Street, where the train rolls into town, is affectionately known by locals as Restaurant Row for its high density of Glenwood Springs dining options. Further up Grand Avenue and along Cooper St., you’ll find even more mouthwatering options. This stretch is also a treasure trove for souvenir shopping.
Bethel Plaza under the bridge is a casual spot for late afternoon music by local bands, as is Hotel Colorado’s veranda during the summer months. For non-stop laughs in the evening, head to the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue, a dinner theater setup with a stellar cast of talented performers.
Journey On
After your two-day stay, reboard the Rock Mountaineer for the remainder of the trip, taking with you the memories made in Glenwood Springs. Learn more and make the most of your whistlestop in Colorado’s favorite hot springs town.
