Glenwood Springs is where to go for fiery aspens and autumn glory! Discover Colorado’s best fall colors, hot springs, outdoor adventures, dining, shopping, and cozy mountain stays.
It’s time to glow up in Glenwood Springs! Fall is just around the corner, bringing a season of brilliant leaf-peeping excursions, sunset soaks, and last-hurrah hikes, rides, and flights before summer fades away.
Fortunately, in Glenwood Springs, the glow doesn’t stop outdoors. It follows you inside in the form of luxurious spas, freshly tapped craft brews, restaurants brimming with seasonal flavors, and shops filled with warm colors, cozy textures, and treasures sure to brighten your closet or home.
The days of triple-digit temperatures are numbered. Before long, autumn will sweep into town like a breath of crisp mountain air, and you’ll want to be here for every golden moment.
Your Fall Color Run Begins Here
Glenwood Springs is a Colorado high-country leaf-peeping haven, perfectly positioned for viewing one of nature’s most dazzling seasonal displays. Here are three favorite ways to catch “fall-orado” at its finest.
Rise Above the Colors on the Glenwood Gondola
One of the best vantage points in town isn’t on a trail—it’s in the sky.
Hop aboard the Glenwood Gondola at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and watch the valley unfold beneath you as hillsides burst into brilliant shades of gold, amber, and rust. Even if thrill rides aren’t on your itinerary, you can purchase a gondola-only ticket. The panoramic views from the Viewing Deck alone are worth the trip.
Lace Up Your Hiking Boots
Autumn may just be Colorado’s finest hiking season. Crisp mornings, comfortable afternoons, and glowing mountainsides make every trail feel a little more magical.
Hanging Lake is breathtaking year-round but fall frames its famous turquoise waters with shimmering golden leaves. Looking for panoramic vistas? Red Mountain Trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of both the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys dressed in autumn color.
Take the Scenic Route
One of Colorado’s most iconic fall drives begins right here.
From Glenwood Springs, follow Highway 82 through Aspen and over Independence Pass. Along the way, you’ll travel from ranchlands and river valleys to alpine peaks towering more than 12,000 feet above sea level. Leave plenty of time for this excursion because around every bend is another postcard-worthy photo opportunity.
For a quieter outing closer to town, take a short drive to Colorado Mountain College’s Spring Valley Campus. From there, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Mt. Sopris rising above a patchwork of golden trees and small-town Colorado charm.
Savor Summer’s Last Hurrah
Lean into cooler temperatures with late-season adventures before winter arrives. Whether you’re hiking to scenic overlooks, pedaling riverside bike paths, or floating high above the valley, these active outings will leave you with rosy cheeks and your own healthy autumn glow.
- Bike. Cruise the Rio Grande Trail or Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, both spectacular in fall. Mountain bikers will love the flowing descents of Grandstaff Trail and Scout Trail, while road cyclists can soak in brilliant scenery along the Rio Grande between Westbank and Carbondale.
- Hike. From family-friendly strolls to challenging summit climbs, there’s a trail for every ability. History buffs will enjoy the walk to Doc Holliday’s Memorial Marker in Linwood Cemetery. Beyond Hanging Lake, Glenwood Canyon also hides quieter gems like Grizzly Creek Trail and Jess Weaver Trail at No Name, both especially beautiful beneath a canopy of changing leaves.
- Glide. For the ultimate bird’s-eye view, soar above the valley on a tandem paragliding flight. Warm autumn thermals provide excellent lift through October, offering a perspective of the changing landscape few visitors ever see.
Slow Down and Soak in the Glow
Some of autumn’s most memorable moments happen after the adventure winds down.
As daylight fades and alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks, slip into naturally heated mineral waters while crisp mountain air and drifting leaves surround you. Whether you’re looking for family fun, peaceful soaking, or luxurious spa treatments, Glenwood Springs offers a hot springs escape for every mood.
• Glenwood Hot Springs Resort for historic hot springs, five hydrotherapy pools, cold plunges, an athletic club, boutique hotel, and family-friendly lodge.
• Iron Mountain Hot Springs for dozens of riverside soaking pools, including family-friendly areas, an adults-only section, specialty pools, and five relaxing saunas.
• for a wellness experience unlike anywhere else in Colorado. Relax in naturally occurring geothermal vapor caves before treating yourself to a rejuvenating spa service.
• Bohemian Bier Spa for a uniquely European-inspired retreat featuring oak jetted tubs with hops, barley, and essential oil infused hydrotherapy, infrared saunas, charcuterie, and beverages between treatments.
A Harvest of Fall Flavors
Aspen Glow isn’t just something you see – it’s something you savor.
As temperatures cool, Glenwood Springs restaurants embrace the season with comforting favorites, locally inspired menus, and patios warmed by glowing fire pits. Settle in for handmade pasta, Colorado-raised beef, mountain trout, harvest vegetables, and desserts showcasing apples, peaches, and warm baking spices.
Take a Little Glow Home
The beauty of Glenwood Springs doesn’t end at the trailhead.
Shop locally owned boutiques for soft sweaters, cozy flannels, handcrafted jewelry, mountain-inspired décor, Western wear, locally created artwork, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Bringing home a special find is the perfect way to let the warmth of your Glenwood getaway linger long after you’ve unpacked.
Bask in the Glow a Little Longer
The best way to enjoy fall’s golden light? Stay awhile.
From historic hotels and boutique inns to modern suites, vacation rentals, and family-friendly lodging, you’ll find the perfect place to settle in for a few unforgettable autumn days.
When it comes to Aspen Glow, there’s no better place to be than Glenwood Springs. Start planning your fall getaway today.
