If you can't relax in Glenwood Springs, you're really not trying. Home to the world's largest improved hot springs pool, this town revolves around water. You can swim, soak in one of the pools or ride a water slide at hot spring spas. You can even steam yourself in the adjacent Yampah Vapor Caves. They've been rejuvenating visitors for more than 100 years.

Actually, the caves were prized by Ute Indians long before. Yampah is Ute for “big medicine.” It is said that when the first explorers encountered the springs in the 1860s, the Utes showed them how to use the water's healing powers to help an injured member of their party.

It didn't take long for word to catch on. The springs, claimed by settlers and developed as a tourist destination, became a hot spot for visitors in the 1880s.

Some of those famous visitors stayed. Up the hill, north of town is an old cemetery with some fascinating headstones - including gunslinger Doc Holliday's. He and many other famous folks spent time at a nearby Hotel Colorado, which is said to be haunted (and now offers ghost tours). It's one of two grand historic hotels in town, the other being the Hotel Denver by the railroad depot (Amtrak still rolls through there daily). A great little town museum will tell you all you want or need to know about local history.

The Colorado River makes its way out of spectacular Glenwood Canyon and roars right through town. It's popular for rafting, but walking or biking alongside it is also a treat. If you're into challenges, seek out the steep but worth-it hike up the Hanging Lake trail. At the top, you'll see how the lake got its name.

Also visit the Glenwood Caverns and Fairy Cave, with a wide array of wonderful cave formations - from cave bacon and popcorn to the better-known stalactites and stalagmites. Die-hard adventurers can sign up for one of their spelunking tours for a subterranean experience.

After all that, you'll be ready again for the hot springs.

Community Resources:
Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association
970-945-6589

Colorado Vacation Directory
Glenwood Springs, CO
Phone: 303-499-9343
Toll Free: 888-222-4641