Glenwood Hot Springs
About three hours directly west of Denver is a mountain town with Old West feel (yes, another one); Glenwood Springs.
One of the most popular destinations is Glenwood Hot Springs. Located just off of Interstate 70, in the heart of Glenwood Springs.
Essentially, Glenwood Hot Springs consists of one large pool but with two slightly different sections (one end is warmer than the other). The place is popular and therefore can be quite crowded at times. However, it can be a relaxing experience especially if you go in the evening.
(View from one end of pool to the other.)
Pros: Convenient. Historic. Close to the highway and downtown. Lodging available.
Cons: Can be crowded. Slightly expensive if staying only a short time.
TIPS: 1) Next door is Yampah Vapor Caves. For more of a private setting you can soak in your own private tub and enjoy a sauna.
2) If you are the adventurous type...and the Colorado River is running low...you can find your own private soak on the actual bank of the river. Explore at your own risk. :) 3) There is another commercial hot spring business that just opened nearby called Iron Mountain Hot Springs. I have not been here yet so I can't say pros or cons. But if anyone checks it out feel free to leave a comment. I hope to check it out soon.
Hotel Colorado
There are many hotels, motels, and inn's around downtown Glenwood Springs. Some are definitely better than others. The last time I visited, my Dad and I stayed at the Hotel Colorado. It is in walking distance to the hot springs and several restaurants.
The front desk worker, whose name escapes me but whose spirit I will never forget, was very friendly and helpful.
The building itself is on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1893, it remains one of Colorado's oldest hotels.
Rumor has it that Theodore Roosevelt's nickname of "Teddy Bear" began during his stay here in 1905. According to the story, a hotel maid handcrafted a stuffed bear for him....Thus, the Teddy Bear was created.
Our friendly hotel representative posed for a photo.
Pros: Central location. Historic. Nice patio dining experience.
Cons: The hotel is old and they have not installed central air. So, it felt a bit stuffy when we stayed. Also, the walls are thin and we heard kids running up and down the hall above us.
A Short Hike Full of History
Just a few minutes from Glenwood Hot Springs, near Highway 82 and 12th St., is the Linwood Cemetery (also known as the Pioneer Cemetery). Because of how the Old West was spun, the fascination with violent gun slingers still persists...and I admit....as a fan of history I wanted to see some of these "famous" individuals final resting places....so I made the short hike up the hill to the Pioneer Cemetery. Here, Kid Curry and John Henry Holliday (better known as "Doc") are buried.
Although...there is only a marker for Doc. It is left to question whether this really is where he was finally buried. But...it is where the historical marker currently resides.
View from the Pioneer Cemetery, overlooking Glenwood Springs.
Another Kind of Suds
Speaking of Doc Holliday, after my Dad and I freshened up from our hot spring soak and hike, we headed to the Doc Holliday Tavern (adjacent to the Springs Downtown Bar and Grill) on Grand Ave. This was a cool, historic saloon with a neon light atmosphere. Decent place. Memorable space.
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