Glenwood Springs Magazine articles 2026

Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is the kind of place that welcomes solo travelers with open arms—a blend of natural wonder, adventure and rejuvenation tucked into the heart of the Rockies. Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature, thrilling experiences or cozy moments of self-care, Glenwood offers plenty to do on your own, each season.

Here’s how to spend 48 hours discovering yourself in Colorado’s favorite mountain town—solo.

Winter: Adventure, Soaking, and Shopping

Day 1

Winter solo travel in Glenwood means embracing both the beauty and adventure of snow-covered peaks and cozy escapes. Start by jumping right in. Head to Sunlight Mountain Resort for a day of skiing or snowboarding—the mountain is accessible, easy to navigate and explore and there are runs designed for athletes of all levels.

After, unwind at Iron Mountain Hot Springs.The vibes are soothing and upscale, with premium amenities, great views and several smaller soaking pools for high-end relaxation.

Day 2

Get to know Glenwood Springs’ shopping scene for a fun day two. Downtown’s Grand Avenue is full of options: be sure to walk atop the pedestrian bridge that connects the beautifully decorated Hotel Colorado to the main street’s collection of local businesses and boutiques, including Treadz for clothing and shoes, Elizabeth Dean for women’s clothing, Hookers for men’s clothing and Bullock’s for the Yellowstone fashion-loving folks. High Country Gems, Glenwood Toys and Fine Things are also must-stops downtown.

Stop by Riviera Supper Club and Scratch Kitchen or Hugo’s for a delicious meal; both offer craft dishes and a welcoming bar scene—a great place for solo travelers to chat with locals or fellow adventurers.

The Meadows is another great area, with box stores to check out. Zheng Asian Bistro is always worth visiting when in this part of town.

Spring: Renewal, Laughter, and Good Brews

Day 1

Start your spring getaway with a visit to Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves for a rejuvenating steam session. The natural geothermal caves offer a meditative quiet that feels worlds away from the everyday, steeped in history and tradition. Additionally, this can be a great spot to meet and connect with locals.

For a dose of entertainment and laughter, the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue is a must-see live dinner theater and comedy show, totally unique to Glenwood Springs.

Day 2

A little fresh air goes a long way. Catch some incredible views of town with the Doc Holliday Grave Hike (under a mile there and back), where you can follow the story of the area’s infamous gun slinger alongside some panoramic views. Refuel at Sweet Coloradough, known for its signature doughnuts.

For those who’d like to sample the local watering holes, some favorite stops include Casey Brewing Taproom, Doc Holliday’s Saloon, the Glenwood Canyon Brewpub, Springs Bar and Stoneyard Distillery.

Summer: Fun in the Sun

Day 1

Kick off your solo summer weekend with a morning ride on the Glenwood Gondola up to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Take in the sweeping valley views before exploring the cave tours and adrenaline-pumping rides like the alpine coaster or zip line.

Lunch is always delicious at Slope & Hatch, before renting a bike for an afternoon ride along the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail. The paved path winds along the Colorado River, offering stunning canyon walls and occasional cool spray—a quintessential Glenwood experience.

Day 2

For a strong dose of local culture, snag a spot on a rafting trip with one of Glenwood’s many outfitters. Rafting is a great solo activity, where it’s easy to grab a place with a mixed group of fellow adventurers, bonding as you take on the rapids of the Colorado or Roaring Fork Rivers.

Afterward, reward yourself with a visit to Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Enjoy incredible views, mountain goats in the distance, a conversation with a local and a signature ice cream cone on a hot day—don’t forget sunscreen!  

Cap off your evening with dinner at Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse or Euro Italian Underground, each offering a cozy ambiance and hearty fare.

Fall: Scenic Autumn Color

Day 1

Autumn in Glenwood is a dream for solo travelers. Start your day with coffee and a pastry from Annie’s Bakery, then head out for a hike at the area’s crown jewel, Hanging Lake Trail. This bucket-list hike is stunning year-round, but fall’s golden aspens make it magical. Be sure to secure your permit in advance.

Be sure to check out a delicious meal at Grind, Brava Modern Trattoria or Russo’s Pizza.

Day 2

For a dose of vibrant fall color, explore the area surrounding Sunlight Mountain Resort. There are scenic back roads and mountain biking trails to explore, framed by Colorado’s signature autumn colors. Grab lunch downtown at Tequila’s after time in the fresh air.

To continue the scenic views, a day trip to neighboring towns is a must: New Castle, Carbondale, Snowmass or Aspen all offer a range of gorgeous hikes, drives and up-close views of incredible fall colors.

Solo Travel to Glenwood Springs

No matter the season, Glenwood Springs invites solo travelers to explore freely and find connection in unexpected places—whether that’s in a conversation with a local, a moment in a hot spring pool or riding to a mountaintop amusement park. In Glenwood Springs, every season is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, one adventure at a time.

Western Colorado’s mountains are alive with geothermal energy—warm, mineral-rich waters that have provided comfort and healing for generations. The Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop (CHHSL) brings together eight of the state’s premier hot springs destinations along roughly 800 miles of scenic highways, connecting 23 distinct soaking experiences across the Rockies.

This circuit offers a blend of history, wellness and adventure—all linked by the soothing allure of naturally heated waters.

A Brief History

Long before Colorado’s resort towns took shape, geothermal springs were sacred places for Indigenous peoples, used for a mix of medicinal, ceremonial and rejuvenating purposes. When European settlers later arrived, the same hot springs quickly became destinations for weary miners and railroad travelers seeking relief. Bathhouses and grand hotels sprang up around the bubbling waters, transforming simple geothermal sites into social and healing centers.

Today, this legacy has been preserved through collaboration among local tourism organizations. The Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop was formally established in 2015 in partnership with the Colorado Tourism Office to highlight this unique collection of geothermal destinations.

The Loop follows a road trip through mountain passes, scenic byways and small towns steeped in frontier history and natural wonder, tied together by some of the state’s best hot springs.

Destinations along the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs has been drawing visitors to its waters since 1888, when the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool first opened. The massive pool is credited as the largest natural mineral hot springs in the world.  

Today, visitors can also enjoy the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, where small, terraced pools overlook the Colorado River, or the Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves, known as the only natural vapor cave in North America.

Carbondale, Colorado

Nearby, Carbondale offers a unique combination of mountain-town charm, local agriculture and outdoor recreation, while its designation as a Colorado Creative District speaks to a flourishing arts culture. A soak at Carbondale’s scenic and serene Avalanche Ranch is a clinic in mountain relaxation and rejuvenation.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs pairs its famous ski slopes with geothermal luxury. The town’s name comes from the “chugging” sound early trappers heard from the natural springs along the Yampa River.

Old Town Hot Springs, located downtown, is a family-friendly facility that has served locals for more than a century. A short drive outside of town, Strawberry Park Hot Springs offers a rustic nature retreat with natural stone pools set alongside Hot Springs Creek.

Chaffee County (Buena Vista, Nathrop, and Salida)

Set in the Collegiate Peaks region, Chaffee County is home to multiple geothermal treasures and recreation opportunities. The Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort channels Chalk Creek’s thermal waters into creek-side stone pools with sweeping mountain views. Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa provides a quieter, more spiritual atmosphere, while Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center offers the largest indoor hot springs pool in North America.

Pagosa Springs

In the state’s southwest corner lies Pagosa Springs, home to the world’s deepest geothermal aquifer. Visitors soak in a series of riverside pools at The Springs Resort & Spa, Overlook and Healing Waters, each with a distinct vibe.

The town’s name—derived from the Ute word “Pagosah,” meaning “healing waters”—perfectly encapsulates its essence.

Ouray

Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray combines dramatic alpine scenery with frontier charm. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool & Fitness Center, nestled beneath towering cliffs, has been a community geothermal hub since 1927. For those seeking history and intimacy, the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa and Lodgings features a naturally heated vapor cave and small soaking pool.

Whether paired with a drive along the Million Dollar Highway or a stroll through Victorian-era streets, Ouray’s hot springs embody Colorado’s mountain magic.

Durango, Colorado

Durango combines a deep western heritage and modern vibrancy. The town remains true to its mining-and-railroad roots while embracing college-town energy, craft cuisine and outdoor adventure.

A short drive from downtown, Durango Hot Springs sits amid mountain scenery—ideal for pairing an active day with a restorative soak.

Saguache County, Colorado

Saguache County offers a more off-the-grid portion of the Loop—deeply scenic, rich with wide-open space.

Framed by the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountains, the region invites hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and soaking in quiet solitude. It’s home to several distinct hot springs, like Joyful Journey, Sand Dunes Recreation, Splashland and Valley View Hot Springs, where visitors can escape the bustle and reconnect with nature.

At its heart, the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop celebrates something timeless: the human instinct to gather, rest and heal in nature’s warmth. From the ancient traditions of the Ute people to today’s spa retreats, Colorado’s hot springs have always been places of renewal.

Head to www.cohotspringsloop.com to learn more about soaking along the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop.

When Marlene Neidert describes her connection to Glenwood Springs, there’s a thematic confidence of someone with global experience who chose the Roaring Fork Valley as a home base.   

“The thing is,” Marlene said, “nobody believes you when you say, ‘We’ll move to Europe for a few years, but we’ll be back.’” But in 2024, she did just that. She and her husband Shane, along with their daughter Quinn, returned to their lives in Carbondale, ready to rejoin the Roaring Fork Valley community that had captured their hearts years earlier.

Today, Marlene co-owns OMfluence, a dynamic marketing agency with a dedicated tourism division, Hospitality Marketing. Though her professional world revolves around analytics, campaigns, and creative storytelling, Marlene’s connection to Glenwood runs much deeper than metrics.

A Creative at Heart

A love of fresh air and creativity guides Marlene’s work. “I enjoy creating marketing campaigns that are both creative and authentically human,” Marlene said. “I love to geek out over digital analytics, but I’m happiest when I’m outside, finding the balance between running a business and spending quality time with my family.”

Originally from Vienna, Austria, Marlene began her career at a social media agency, naturally gravitating toward travel, sustainability, and tourism accounts. When she first moved to Colorado in 2016, that passion found new ground as she worked as a marketing manager for a rafting outfitter serving Summit and Chaffee counties. “It gave me such a fun crash course in the state’s tourism scene,” Marlene said. “I got to collaborate with Vail Resorts and all kinds of hotels and attractions—it was the perfect entry into the Colorado adventure world.”

Finding Glenwood

In 2018, Marlene joined Visit Glenwood, the tourism department of the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association, as marketing project manager. “Working for Visit Glenwood was the best job I ever had,” she said. “The people at the Chamber are so kind, caring, and community-minded.”

Her role immersed her in the region’s tourism ecosystem, from partnerships with the Colorado Tourism Office to collaborations such as the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop and stewardship efforts around Hanging Lake. “Those projects connected me with people all over the state and helped me fall in love with Glenwood even more.”

Her work during the 2019 rollout of the Hanging Lake permit system stands out as a career milestone. “The social media communications around that were challenging,” Marlene said. “It really sparked my interest in sustainability and stewardship marketing—how to use digital platforms not just to promote, but to protect.”

That same year, a casual Chamber Morning Brew event introduced her to Olivia Savard—her future business partner. “We became fast friends and started imagining doing our own thing one day,” Marlene says.

When her daughter Quinn was born, Marlene and her husband, Shane, decided to move closer to family in Austria so their child could know both her American and Austrian roots.

In 2023, she launched her own marketing agency from abroad. “Shortly after, I started to collaborate with Olivia Savard,” Marlene said. “We founded our Marketing Agency, which we now co-own with a designated branch for tourism and Hospitality Businesses.” Through OMfluence LLC and Hospitality Marketing, Marlene and Olivia serve clients in the Roaring Fork Valley, in Colorado, and beyond.

When Marlene and her family returned to the Roaring Fork Valley in 2024, they knew it was more than a homecoming—it was a reaffirmation. “Since we returned, I love the valley even more than before,” Marlene said. “Now, I’m learning what a wonderful place it is to raise a child.”

Roaring Fork Valley Life

Marlene’s husband Shane—“the cute guy I met while traveling through Thailand”—and their daughter Quinn have jumped back into the rhythm of valley life. Quinn, turning 5 in December, is already hiking 5-plus-mile trails and zipping down ski runs. “Shoutout to the Sunlight Mountain Powder Pals ski school program,” Marlene said. “It got my daughter excited about skiing and ripping through the Fairy Forest in no time.”

Beyond family adventures, Marlene’s work has continued to thrive thanks to the unique culture of Glenwood Springs and its surroundings. “It’s such a wonderful place to run a marketing agency,” she says. “The community is large enough to bring opportunities but small enough that human connection and networking are still worth your time.”

That blend of opportunity and intimacy adds to Glenwood’s special sauce. “I’ve had multiple meetings at the hot springs and even met clients on the chairlift—can it get any better than this?”

Outside of work, you’ll find Marlene in the fresh air. “Hiking is my favorite thing to do,” she said. “In winter, I love both alpine and cross-country skiing. Honestly, I don’t want to live anywhere that I can’t just go hike or ski on a random Wednesday if my meetings are canceled.”

Her favorite social setting? The hot springs, of course. “Nothing’s better than catching up with a friend in the hot springs,” Marlene said. “It’s where I do some of my best thinking—and some of my best networking.”

A Chosen Home

For Marlene, Glenwood Springs represents the best of both worlds: the calm of small-town living paired with the vibrancy of culture and community. “I grew up in Vienna, so I expect lots of offerings—restaurants, shows, concerts, festivals, activities,” she said. “A lot of small towns would be too quiet. But here, it’s perfect. It has everything without the overwhelm.”

Marlene Neidert may have arrived in Glenwood Springs as an international transplant and tourism professional, but she’s stayed—and returned—as a believer in what makes this place so special. Creativity, community, connection, and a shared love for the outdoors have shaped both her personal journey and her professional path.

The ultimate charm of the Roaring Fork Valley, of course, comes down to the people.  “It’s such a friendly, welcoming community,” Marlene said. “Thank you for welcoming me with such warmth. This valley is truly my chosen home.”

Glenwood Springs knows how to throw a party. From generational festivals to seasonal concerts, this mountain town has a vibrant calendar of annual events and cause for pomp, circumstance and celebration.

Mark your calendars: there’s always something to look forward to in this mountain town.

Strawberry Days

Each June, Glenwood Springs hosts Strawberry Days, Colorado’s longest-running civic festival, dating back to 1898. Held at Two Rivers Park, this summer staple features a downtown parade, local vendors, live music and, of course, free strawberries and ice cream.

It’s the perfect kickoff to summer and a beloved generational tradition.

Summer of Music

Throughout summer, Summer of Music brings free live music to Two Rivers Park on Wednesday evenings. Listeners gather as the sun sets over the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers, with genres ranging from bluegrass to funk.

Rallye Glenwood Springs

Every June, auto enthusiasts from across the country rev up for the Annual MG Car Club Rallye. First held in 1953, the event kicks off in the Denver area and concludes in Glenwood Springs, where participants showcase their vintage cars and share stories from the open road.

Fourth of July Celebrations

Independence Day in Glenwood Springs is a star-spangled affair. Festivities typically include free live music, vendors and activities and a laser show at Two Rivers Park, making for a family-friendly, patriotic affair.

Downtown Market and Farmers Market

From June through September, the Downtown Market transforms Glenwood’s 7th Street into an open-air festival every Tuesday evening, featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts and live music.

Oktoberfest

To celebrate Oktoberfest with a bit of Bavarian flair, head to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park for their seasonal celebration on Saturdays in September and October. There’s live polka music, dancing, food, games and competitions and of course, specialty German beer on tap. Prost!

Ghost Walk

Each October, the Glenwood Springs Historical Society hosts the hauntingly popular Ghost Walk at Linwood Cemetery. Lantern-lit tours lead guests up the hillside to meet costumed actors portraying colorful figures from Glenwood’s past—gunslingers, pioneers and early settlers. The half-mile trek offers history, atmosphere and a touch of the supernatural.

Hotel Colorado Christmas Lighting Ceremony

Hotel Colorado kicks off the holiday season on Black Friday each year with decorations inside and out. The historic hotel glows with thousands of lights, while live entertainment, hot cocoa and fireworks ignite seasonal cheer.

New Year’s Eve at the Pool

There’s no better way to ring in the New Year than with a moon-lit soak. The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool hosts a festive NYE celebration complete with live music and fireworks.

Ski Spree

In February, Glenwood Springs celebrates winter with Ski Spree, a spirited weekend of snowy fun at Sunlight Mountain Resort and around town. The festival features family activities, a lively chili cook-off and a fireworks show over the slopes.

Throughout the year, Glenwood Springs offers a reason to celebrate in every season. These festivals, events and concerts remind everyone that Glenwood’s greatest tradition is community itself.

For many, the concept of Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley might conjure images of jet-setters, five-star ski lodges and champagne après-ski scenes. But there’s another side to the RFV: a seasonally savvy, locally loved and surprisingly affordable one.

Between shoulder-season specials, Colorado resident discounts and year-round value stays, luxury can be surprisingly attainable in the Roaring Fork Valley. Whether you’re craving a fall foliage retreat, a spa escape or a cozy winter staycation, here’s how to “high roll” without breaking the bank.

Limelight Hotels (Aspen & Snowmass)

At the Limelight Aspen and Limelight Snowmass, Colorado residents can save up to 30% off on select room types, with complimentary parking included—a perk that’s especially appreciated downtown. Rates start around $250–$350 per night, depending on the property and season.

For late-summer or early-fall travelers, the Golden Hour package offers even more savings: 30% off stays of three nights or longer, a welcome gift, daily breakfast and a $100 food and beverage credit—perfect for lingering over a mountain-view brunch or an après-ski cocktail.

Don’t skip The Lounge Happy Hour—in Aspen, that means $15 house cocktails and $6 Limelight Lagers from 3–6 p.m., while in Snowmass, locals sip $10 margaritas and $6 craft beers between 4–6 p.m. It’s a rare chance to enjoy a five-star atmosphere with a local’s tab.

The Gant Aspen

A favorite among returning visitors, The Gant proves that Aspen’s luxury doesn’t always have to come at a luxury price. With its Guaranteed Getaway offer (30% lodging discount) and Season Pass Holders Special (25% off specific dates for ski pass holders, including Aspen Snowmass, Mountain Collective or IKON), guests can access prime lodging for less.

Another perk is the Gant Crafted Experiences—locally led workshops, tastings and guided adventures designed to connect guests to Aspen’s creative spirit. This year’s highlight, Rolling Canvas: Art in Motion, transforms the resort’s fleet of vans into moving works of art by four local artists.

Aspen Meadows Resort

A modernist haven tucked into Aspen’s quiet West End, Aspen Meadows Resort brings high design and holistic wellness into an accessible package. Colorado residents receive 20–25% off select dates; with the discount, rates during the off-season are from $319/night.

The on-site restaurant, West End Social, turns après hour into an art form. During shoulder season, the Après Menu shines with deals like $14 wines by the glass, $12 martinis on Mondays and “Bottle and Boards” Wednesdays—pairing wine with charcuterie at a steal.

Wellness seekers will appreciate new barrel saunas and recovery programming, which can best be taken advantage of in the offseason, plus free in-room Three Sages programming (yoga and breathwork). Complimentary Hyperice recovery kits and Hydrow workout equipment allow guests to curate a personal spa experience from their suite.

There are also pickleball, padel and tennis courts, which are much easier to use during slower times. And the resort always has a fleet of bikes for guest usage, perfect for zipping into town or along the Rio Grande Trail.

Aspen Square Condominium Hotel

Sometimes value means simplicity. At Aspen Square Condominium Hotel, the hotel skips the seasonal promo codes in favor of consistently reasonable pricing, especially midweek in the off-season. With full kitchens, fireplaces and a prime location in the heart of town, it’s one of Aspen’s quietest value wins.

W Aspen

For those who crave a high-energy stay, W Aspen delivers with modern flair and mountain views—often at prices far below peak-season norms. Off-season rates start around $399 per night, with an additional 20% discount for stays of four or more nights. For the best available staycation rates (keep an eye out!), guests are encouraged to check out the latest offers online.

Locals are rewarded, too: from October through late November, Roaring Fork Valley locals (Aspen through Parachute) enjoy 20% off all food and beverages with a local ID.

When ski season begins, W Aspen’s “Ski and Stay” package bundles lift tickets and lodging for one-stop winter luxury.

MOLLIE Aspen

MOLLIE brings boutique style and minimalist beauty to Aspen’s lodging scene, offering a more design-forward but approachable experience. Fall nightly rates start at $224 in September, with two popular promos: Colorado Residents Rate (promo code COLO at time of booking) and Weekday Wanderlust (promo code MOLLIE), both offering up to 30% off on Sunday–Wednesday stays.

While the hotel’s restaurant transitions this winter to become Petit Trois’ newest outpost, guests can enjoy the serene Scandinavian-inspired interiors and thoughtful amenities that make MOLLIE a chic yet practical stay.

St. Regis Aspen

In Aspen, a standout luxury parent of the valley is The St. Regis Aspen Resort, located at the base of Aspen Mountain. This resort delivers mountain elegance with signature St. Regis rituals—from the daily champagne sabering to the Afternoon Tea in its refined lounge spaces.

While peak-season nightly rates can be steep, savvy visitors can find better value in the shoulder seasons —for example, booking a mid-week stay in October or May, when deals tend to surface.

For a more budget-conscious stay, travelers can still enjoy standout amenities such as the Remède Spa (complete with steam caves, hot tubs and alpine treatments) and the heated outdoor pool with a fire-pit terrace.

Viceroy Snowmass

At Viceroy Snowmass, Thanksgiving rates hover around $380 per night, dropping further for locals with a 20% discount, remaining one of the valley’s most beloved for its balance of sophistication and slopeside convenience.

Timberline Condominiums

For travelers seeking slopeside comfort with a homey twist, Timberline Condominiums offers ski-in/ski-out access and early season pricing starting at $256 per night between November 27 – December 12, making it an excellent option for an early season staycation to take advantage of early season lift ticket rates.

At the on-site Edge Restaurant, the daily Après Ski runs from 4–5 p.m., featuring discounted drinks and a rotating special cocktail.

The Villas at Snowmass Club

If your dream escape includes mountain views and resort amenities, The Villas at Snowmass Club delivers a sweet spot between comfort and luxury. Fall rates (through mid-December) start around $343 per night, heavily discounted from the winter rates that start at $940 per night.  

The Hoffmann Hotel Basalt, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

New to the valley’s hospitality scene, The Hoffmann Hotel in Basalt offers some of the most wallet-friendly rates around—$149 per night during off-season windows (mid-October to early December, and again from mid-April to June 1).

Add in a stellar happy hour, half off “apps and taps”—appetizers, beer, and wine from 4–6 p.m.—and you’ve got one of the best deals in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Avalanche Ranch Cabins & Hot Springs

Down the road in Carbondale, Avalanche Ranch remains a local favorite for its rustic beauty and unbeatable soaking experience. Day passes to the scenic hot springs are $34 for a four-hour soak, while overnight stays in cozy wagons start at $140 per night—a rate that includes full hot springs access from check-in to check-out.

Wellness fans can take advantage of the Massage and Soak Package year-round: $162 for a 50-minute massage and a four-hour hot springs session.

Hotel Colorado

Grand, historic and ideally situated, Hotel Colorado remains a cornerstone of Glenwood Springs’ staycation scene. Weekday nights (Sunday–Thursday) offer the lowest rates, allowing guests to enjoy elegant accommodations without the weekend crowds.

The on-site Baron’s Restaurant features a beautiful dining room with an indoor waterfall, and the cozy Polo Lounge offers a full bar and comfortable seating. Guests can enjoy an array of signature breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes from Executive Chef Terry Allen. He and his team offer an elevated dining experience from local and regional seasonal offerings in a family-friendly environment.

Legends Coffee Shop, located in the lobby, offers a more budget-friendly option in the morning with barista-prepared hot and cold drinks and a nice selection of pastries. At lunchtime, two people can each order a cup of the soup du jour and split one of the hearty sandwiches for a quick and more affordable meal. The Polo Lounge at Hotel Colorado offers a daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m., with rotating food and drink specials.

Hotel 1888

In Glenwood Springs, a stylish new boutique lodging option recently debuted: the Hotel 1888 at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, located within the historic Stone Bath House.

With just 16 guest rooms, Hotel 1888 brings an intimate, design-forward feel to a landmark hot-springs destination. Guests enjoy unlimited access to the resort’s seven mineral-rich pools, complimentary breakfast in the 1888 Bistro and access to the on-site Athletic Club.

Making the Most of the Off-Season

Between leaf-peeping season and early ski openings, fall and spring offer some of the Roaring Fork Valley’s best-kept secrets. Travelers can book upscale accommodations at a fraction of peak prices, while locals can enjoy their favorite properties crowd-free.

From Aspen’s cosmopolitan corners to Glenwood’s historic heart, high rolling on a budget is well within reach.

Glenwood Springs is surrounded by natural beauty waiting to be explored. Canyons, mountain passes, valleys and scenic byways line the pathways in, out and beyond, providing panoramic vistas and incredible drives.

Whether it’s summer’s wildflowers or autumn’s golden aspens, these nearby routes offer unbeatable views and plenty of reasons to pull over and soak it all in.

Glenwood Canyon

Just east of town, Interstate 70 winds through Glenwood Canyon—a stunning blend of engineering and nature. Towering sandstone cliffs frame the Colorado River, with plenty of pull-offs to explore on foot.

Independence Pass

Heading south on Highway 82, this seasonal route climbs to 12,095 feet, connecting Twin Lakes and Aspen. Sweeping views and alpine meadows make it an unforgettable high-country experience. The road is narrow and winding, but the payoff—especially in late September—is unmatched.

McClure Pass

Take Highway 133 from Carbondale through the Crystal River Valley, Redstone and the marble quarries of Marble before cresting McClure Pass. In autumn, this is one of the most spectacular aspen drives in the Rockies. Pull off at the summit overlook for a sweeping panorama of Mount Sopris and the Elk Mountains.

Cottonwood Pass

For a peaceful, lesser-known route, follow County Road 113 from El Jebel to Gypsum. This partially paved backroad climbs gently through ranchland, aspen groves and mountain vistas—a perfect slow-paced escape for those seeking solitude.

Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway

For adventurous travelers, the Flat Tops Trail between Meeker and Yampa covers 82 miles of rugged backcountry. Accessible via Rifle or Meeker, it features shimmering lakes, rolling tundra and abundant wildlife. Prepare for limited cell service; this is pure, peek Colorado wilderness.

Fryingpan Road

Starting in Basalt, Fryingpan Road follows the Fryingpan River through a narrow canyon lined with cottonwoods before climbing toward Ruedi Reservoir. Great for fishing stops, photo ops and tranquil forest views, this is a relaxed and rewarding drive.

Sunlight to Powderhorn Trail

Accessible from Glenwood Springs, this remote gravel route connects Sunlight Mountain Resort to the Grand Mesa region. Expect forest roads, open meadows and sweeping panoramas—best enjoyed in late summer when wildflowers blanket the high country.

West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

This 205-mile route travels through Carbondale, Paonia, Gunnison, and Crested Butte, looping through a diverse mix of canyons, farms and mountain passes. Perfect for a weekend road trip, this byway showcases the heart of Colorado’s agricultural and artistic communities, framed by stunning mountain scenery.

New Castle to Buford Road

From New Castle, follow County Road 245 (Buford Road) into the White River National Forest. The route climbs steadily into the Flat Tops region, winding through ponderosa pine and aspen groves. In summer, the meadows explode with wildflowers; in fall, it’s a hidden gem for golden foliage, free of crowds.

No matter which direction, the drives around Glenwood Springs promise the kind of beauty that highlights the best of Colorado’s high alpine scenery. Roll the windows down, take your time and let the landscape do the talking.