The Colorado landscape is beautiful in the summer, but blankets everything in crisp, sparkling snow during the winter to become an entirely new world. Glenwood Springs winter season is cozy, lovely, and has much to offer visitors and locals alike.
Located on the western slope of Colorado at 5,761 feet above sea level, Glenwood Springs is home to natural mineral Hot Springs, a ski resort and a historic downtown. Visitors who don’t want to drive snowy mountain passes in the winter can arrive via train. The Colorado River cuts through the valley offering river views from local hot springs and adventure parks open year round.
5 Fun Thing to Do in Glenwood Springs in Winter
Check Out the Lights
Take a chilly stroll down Grand Ave, which is the main street through downtown Glenwood Springs. Trees and storefronts are decorated with colorful lights for Christmas time. Need a break? Lots of coffee shops and gift shops are open along the street so you can warm up as needed.
For a true spectacle of lights, stop by the Hotel Colorado. If you happen to be in town just after Thanksgiving, be sure to stop by for their free annual ceremony complete with dancers, singers, fireworks, and a visit from Santa himself!
Even if you miss the ceremony, more than one million lights remain on display throughout the Christmas season. You’ll find incredible displays on the grounds as well as in the hotel lobby and halls.
Go Hiking with the Family
Red Mountain has an easy trail, even in snow, and will give you beautiful views of Glenwood Springs. If you want to try a night hike, the Red Mountain Cross will be lit up and you’ll be able to see the whole town sparkling with snow below.
For more of a challenge, don’t forget spikes for your shoes. Hanging Lake Trail can be slippery in the winter and the trail is steep, but short. The view at the end is worth the trek, though. The trail will be closed winter 2021-2022 due to mudslides the previous summer, hopefully opening for summer 2022.
Check Out the Hot Springs
With multiple hot spring locations in the area, you have plenty of options for enjoying the unique experience of swimming or soaking outside in the cold winter months.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs is a great option that has something for everyone. They offer 16 different hot spring options, ranging in temperature from a family pool to a “quiet zone” for those who need some extra relaxation. Overlooking the Colorado River with a fantastic view of snow capped mountains, enjoy a hot soak and order refreshments and drinks from water to mixed drinks.
The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is the largest hot springs pool in the world. It is over 100 years old and is filled by a naturally hot mineral waters from a spring located just feet away. With plenty of space and water it is ideal for both soaking and swimming.
Ski at Sunlight Mountain Resort
With 67 trails to ski or snowboard, your family will not run out of fun things to try. All the trails lead back to the resort where you can meet some friends, stow your gear, and get something hot to eat.
Sunlight Mountain Resort is definitely worth skiing while visiting Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Whether you want to take lessons, enjoy a snowmobile trip, or explore on your own, you can reserve any gear you need ahead of time and get right to the fun!
Winter on the Mountain
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park hosts Winter on the Mountain annually. You’ll enjoy a giant musical Christmas tree, thousands of light displays, and even a visit from Santa! Several of the rides remain open year round making it a fun place to visit any time of the year.
During the winter bring the whole family and bundle up for a fun adventure filled with Christmas cheer!
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