Explore the Unique Benefits of Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Introduction to Hot Springs

Every hot spring in the world boasts its own unique cocktail of minerals. Some are renowned for calming nerves and relieving joint pain, while others are recognized for alleviating skin conditions like psoriasis. Instead of traveling to New Zealand or Turkey, you can experience the healing waters by visiting Glenwood Springs, Colorado. This charming mountain town has long been known for its hot springs, including the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool.

Experience at Iron Mountain Hot Springs

A highlight of Glenwood Springs is the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which features a series of outdoor pools along the banks of the Colorado River. Opened in 2015, Iron Mountain has continued to expand, recently adding 10 new riverfront pools that replicate the mineral formulas of renowned hot springs worldwide, such as Banjar Holy Hot Springs in Bali and the thermal baths of Chianciano in Italy.

The new addition, known as Upriver, which opened on June 30, is unique in Glenwood Springs as it allows guests to enjoy beer, wine, or cocktails from their chosen pool. This area is exclusively for guests aged 21 and over and offers an exciting menu of poolside snacks, including charcuterie, poke bowls, and ceviche.

According to Aaron McCallister, the general manager of Upriver at Iron Mountain Hot Springs, “Guests can quickly feel the difference at Upriver with the opportunity to experience different pools and hot springs recipes from around the world, all within an elevated 21+ setup situated along the Colorado River.”

The 10 Upriver pools are arranged to mimic the waters of famous hot springs from Iceland, France, Japan, Turkey, Romania, Australia, Bali, Italy, New Zealand, and South Korea. McCallister noted that more formulas from around the world will be rotated in the future.

The varied mineral compositions alter the sensation of the water on the skin differently in each pool. Furthermore, both the color and temperature of the water can change, adjusted to accommodate seasonal variations.

‘We carefully select and control the specific temperatures for each pool depending on the time of year. For instance, you can expect higher temperatures in winter compared to summer months,’ McCallister explained.

Additionally, each experience pool features a river pebble floor that provides a complimentary foot massage. When you need relief from the heat, you can relax in two Upriver freshwater pools equipped with waterfalls and lounge chairs. For those wanting to amplify the health benefits of Upriver’s mineral waters, the cold plunge is available—a type of water therapy reported to strengthen immunity and promote other potential health benefits.

Among the hot spring pools is one inspired by the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, which gained fame after a local woman experienced remarkable improvement in her psoriasis, and another that features minerals similar to the Vichy Waters of France, known as the first medically prescribed spa in Europe.

Set against the backdrop of Iron Mountain, Red Mountain, and the twin peaks of Mt. Sopris, the Iron Mountain Hot Springs facility offers an atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Access to the hot springs includes three-hour soaking windows starting at $36, while all-day passes begin at $100. Entry to Upriver is an extra $10, providing access to all 32 pools (13 in Upriver and 19 in the general soaking area).

Where to Stay

When it comes to accommodations, the Hotel Colorado is undoubtedly the premier spot in Glenwood Springs. Constructed in 1893, this historic hotel has hosted numerous presidents and is believed to be the birthplace of “the teddy bear,” named by President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt’s daughter during a bear-hunting trip.

Today, the hotel retains its historic charm alongside a modern aesthetic. Guests can enjoy the grand lobby, beautiful chandeliers, and fully renovated rooms featuring oversized upholstered headboards and white-marble bedside tables. One of its standout features is the open-air bar and restaurant, which offers shaded garden seating and provides easy access to downtown Glenwood Springs via a walking bridge.

Where to Eat

After a day of soaking, a plate of homemade pasta is hard to beat. The Italian Underground has been a local favorite for over 30 years, serving made-from-scratch Italian dishes including customizable pizzas and on-tap wine in Italian-style carafes.

Other excellent dining options include Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse (featuring rooftop seating) and the long-standing Riviera Supper Club and Scratch Kitchen, a Glenwood Springs staple operating since the mid-1940s.