A natural haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, Glenwood Springs is a natural habitat for Colorado nature lovers.
A place where the rivers meet the mountains, Glenwood Springs is a biodiverse playground for anyone who wants to spend time outdoors, and the town’s alignment with Colorado’s Leave No Trace principles ensures future generations can share the same experiences.
Nature Walks, Hikes & Treks
The variety of trails is one of Glenwood’s greatest assets. From easy nature walks and moderate hikes to tough treks, visitors can choose an experience that suits their ability and interest level.
Ease into Nature. Glenwood’s river trails offer easy access to the outdoors. Just steps away from the hotel district, tap into the Rio Grande Trail for a leisurely walk along the Roaring Fork River. Another riverside option is to stroll or pedal the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path along the Colorado.
Heart-pumping Hikes. For something more strenuous, give a couple of Glenwood’s most treasured trails a try. Hanging Lake and Doc Holliday trails are short in distance, but steep in elevation gain. A stunning site with unique geological features, Hanging Lake is a designated National Natural Landmark and requires a hiking reservation. Doc Holliday Trail honors the Wild West legend with a hike that leads to his memorial.
Lungs & Legs Longer Treks. The rewards are worth the effort on these more intense hikes. The Jess Weaver Trail takes off out of No Name in Glenwood Canyon and quickly ascends along the creek by the same name. Red Mountain is another steep stunner. The trail leaves the valley floor, winds through oak brush and wildflower hillsides, culminating in panoramic views of the Roaring Fork Valley below. For a rewarding hike with emotional resonance, try the Storm King Memorial Trail west of Glenwood. The climb will help you appreciate the sacrifice of 14 firefighters who perished there in the 1994 Storm King Fire.
Wild Encounters
There’s nothing like seeing bighorn sheep up close or watching a bald eagle catch a fish—both are regular sights in Glenwood Springs!
Bighorn Sheep. Whether you’re rafting, biking, or hiking, Glenwood Canyon is the place to keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, especially around the Horseshoe Bend area in Glenwood Canyon and near the bridge on the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path that crosses over Interstate-70.
Elk. These stately animals thrive in the White River National Forest, but herds often make their way into town for R&R Wapiti-style. Look for them lounging on the greens at area golf courses.
Deer. The ubiquitous darlings of the mountains, chances are good you’ll spot several mule deer during your visit. In addition to food sources at higher elevations, they also like to graze on tasty flowers that adorn the local landscape in town.
Bears. Active and looking to feed on the plentiful fruits and berries ripening in the high country, fall is prime time for catching sight of bears. While it’s always a thrill to spot a member of the ursine species, take care to keep your distance. These critters are not cuddly teddy’s, they are wild animals loading up for hibernation.
Birds. Glenwood’s paragliders may soar through the air over Glenwood Springs, but they have nothing on the winged creatures that make their home in the Roaring Fork Valley. The best places for birdwatching—bald eagles, hawks, ducks, geese, and songbirds—are along the shores of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers.
Treading Lightly
When you’re out in nature, practice being invisible. The results are magical! You don’t need a special cape to accomplish this feat. A little common sense is all it takes to be an outdoor superhero.
Nature in all its splendor is a gift, and Glenwood encourages visitors to return the favor by adventuring respectfully and following the Do Glenwood Right – Care for Colorado principles. The guidelines encourage visitors to enjoy the wonders of nature while practicing personal stewardship by leaving the wilderness as pristine as they found it. Strategies include being prepared for the climate and terrain before you go, sticking to marked trails, packing out trash and dog waste, and observing wildlife from a respectful distance.
Nature at Its Best
If you love nature, you’ll love Glenwood Springs! Learn more and make your plans to visit today.
