Glenwood Springs sits at the confluence of the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork River, surrounded by some of the best outdoor country in the Rocky Mountains. The two rivers bring gold-medal fly fishing, world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking right through town.
The town grew up in the late 1800s around its hot springs — the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, fed by the Yampah Spring, is one of the largest in the world and still the main attraction. The Iron Mountain Hot Springs on the riverbank offer a quieter soak. Doc Holliday came here for the mineral waters in 1887 and is buried in the cemetery on the hill above town.
The surrounding wilderness is enormous. The Flattops Wilderness to the north is one of Colorado's largest wild areas, with endless high-country exploring. Grand Mesa rises to the west. Hanging Lake, a turquoise travertine lake perched in Deadhorse Canyon, is the area's most photographed hike. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, high above the valley, combines cave tours with thrill rides and mountain views.
Aspen is 60 minutes south and brings world-class skiing and a cultural scene that Glenwood Springs residents happily commute to. Vail is 70 minutes east on I-70. Grand Junction, with its wine country, is 80 minutes west. All three have airports, but Glenwood Springs itself is easily reached by Amtrak or car.