Experience winter magic in Glenwood Springs, where the best gifts of the season are snowy adventures, hot springs soaks, festive events, and cozy mountain comforts!
Winter in Glenwood Springs is magical. Glenwood Canyon, with its rugged cliffs and snow-sprinkled evergreens, feels like stepping into an old-time snow globe, while low-lying ethereal clouds of steam cloak the hot springs in mystery. From high mountain peaks to cozy downtown restaurants, there’s an air of joy and wonder just waiting to be unwrapped by you, your family, and your friends this winter season.
The Slopes Await
Surprise! Just minutes from downtown Glenwood Springs, Sunlight Mountain Resort delivers all the thrills you expect from Colorado skiing, but minus the crowds, high-priced lift tickets, and paid parking. Known for its authentic mountain-town friendliness and family-approved Ski, Swim, Stay packages, Sunlight is a winter haven that only gets better with every visit.
This year, the resort has upped its game by replacing two chairlifts, boosting both speed and capacity for even more runs between first tracks and the final slope of the day. With over 700 acres of skiable terrain, from gentle greens for beginners to pulse-pounding steeps for seasoned skiers and snowboarders, Sunlight offers big-time downhill excitement in an unpretentious, hometown wrapper.
Snow-Packed Trail Trekking
For those who prefer to follow the awe-inspiring trails less traveled, Glenwood Springs’ winter landscapes are ideal for snowshoeing, fat biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The season transforms local foot and forest trails into serene, snow-covered sanctuaries, perfect for quiet wanderings or full-throttle adventures.
Work up a lather at Sunlight’s Babbish Gulch, where a network of well-marked routes leads snowshoers and Nordic skiers through the peaceful stillness of the White River National Forest. Fat-tire cyclists can take on the Red Mountain Trail, a challenging uphill grind that rewards riders with sweeping views of the snow-blanketed Roaring Fork Valley, and an exhilarating downhill ride to finish.
When it comes to fast-track exploration, take your meanderings to the edge with guided snowmobile tours at Sunlight Mountain Resort. Tours take riders deep into the forest to places that are otherwise inaccessible.
Of course, hiking in Glenwood Springs is never out of season. For an unforgettable winter sight, make reservations to visit Hanging Lake. This National Natural Landmark, framed by semi-frozen waterfalls and a glassy, ice-rimmed lake, is a breathtaking wonder. Consider bringing micro spikes and trekking poles for sure footing on the steep and sometimes icy trail.
Glide, Twirl, Goal!
Nostalgic gifts always bring a smile. Bundle up and lace your skates at the Glenwood Springs Community Center Ice Rink, where locals and visitors alike glide, twirl, and score goals ice skating on the oval. Whether you’re skating hand-in-hand with your sweetheart, practicing your spins, or joining a drop-in hockey game, the rink is pure, old-fashioned winter joy. The Community Center at Glenwood Meadows offers regular public skating and drop-in hockey, as well as skate rentals.
Holiday Cheer, Glenwood Springs Style
Winter wouldn’t be complete without a little sparkle. The holidays in Glenwood Springs shimmer and shine with small-town charm and over-the-top mountain spirit.
High above the city, Winter on the Mountain at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park lights up the night sky with a spectacular glow that’s visible for miles. America’s only mountaintop theme park celebrates the season with musical performances, dazzling light displays including on the cave tours, fire pits for roasting marshmallows, and after-dark rides on the Alpine Coaster.
On the valley floor, the Hotel Colorado continues the festive mood with its annual holiday tradition, a lighting display so dazzling it’s considered one of the best on Colorado’s Western Slope. Crews spend weeks transforming the historic hotel, inside and out, into a winter wonderland for the sole purpose of delighting onlookers.
Warm Heart of Winter
Perhaps nothing captures Glenwood Springs’ magical winter atmosphere better than a soak in its world-famous hot springs. Imagine snowflakes drifting down as you sink into naturally heated waters. There’s something wonderful about experiencing the incongruity of frigid temperatures, juxtaposed with water so invitingly warm that your muscles melt into deep relaxation. Whether you prefer the historic grandeur of the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or the riverside tranquility of Iron Mountain Hot Springs, soaking in winter is akin to being wrapped in a snuggly warm coat in the midst of a snowstorm.
To take calm to a deeper level, venture below ground at the Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves, where geothermal vapors fill natural, subterranean chambers with mineral-rich vapor for a healing steam bath. Ancient, mysterious, and deeply restorative, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
Winter Comforts
As the snow falls outside, Glenwood Springs keeps things cozy inside. More than a thousand inviting guest rooms, ranging from historic and boutique hotels to charming lodges and classic motor inns, welcome visitors with warm hospitality. Choose accommodations with hot tubs, in-room fireplaces, hearty breakfasts, or all-day coffee service to make your stay extra snug.
Dining in Glenwood Springs is equally comforting. Winter menus brim with seasonal flavor. Treat yourself to hearty pastas, stick-to-your-ribs stews, spicy Asian delights, zesty south-of-the-border fare, and creative cocktails in cozy restaurant settings that will warm your heart as well as your belly.
Unwrap your Glenwood Springs Winter Getaway Today!
Winter in Glenwood Springs is pure magic. Plan your upcoming 2025/2026 winter getaway today and unwrap one magical moment after another in Glenwood Springs.
