Glenwood Springs
Located at the intersection of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers, Glenwood Springs is known for its connection to water and is said to host the world’s largest natural medicinal hot sulfur springs pool. Constructed in 1890, Glenwood became known as the “Spa in the Rockies”, and attracted the likes of Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft, infamous gangster Al Capone and world famous “Doc” Holiday.
RUSH THE RAPIDS WITH AVA
Glenwood Springs is also close to the starting point of many popular hiking trails like Hanging Lake and Grizzly Creek. The areas colorful history and scenic beauty lure millions of travelers from all over the world each year. The town also hosts the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue and the Riviera Supper Club & Piano Bar, which provide opportunities for comedy and entertainment alongside stellar restaurants and breweries.
Explore Glenwood Springs
Top Trips
Enjoy white water rafting right in Glenwood Springs on Shoshone Rapids. The Arkansas River, about two hours away from Glenwood Springs, and which can be easily accessed from our Buena Vista outpost, provides a variety of Whitewater Rafting opportunities for all ages and skill levels. From this outpost location, we also offer exciting Zipline, Via Ferrata, and Horseback Riding experiences, allowing guests to explore the best of Colorado from the water and the trees! The Upper Colorado River and our Kremmling, Colorado outpost are also a close one and a half hour trip from Glenwood Springs. This scenic location provides opportunities for mellow float trips, Stand up Paddleboarding, and Inflatable Kayaking.
Browns Canyon 1/2 Day
Get ready to experience the best of Colorado on our Brown’s Canyon half-day trip. This family-friendly adventure rushes you down the Arkansas River and [...]
Browns Canyon Half Day + Zipline Package
This multi-adventure package will keep you energized and smiling the entire day, as you fly through the trees on our Mountaintop Zipline course and [...]
Shoshone
Shoshone Rapids half day takes you through Colorado’s amazing Glenwood Canyon, which is just outside of Glenwood Springs. A must-see destination for any Colorado [...]
Lower Eagle
The Eagle River whitewater rafting experience offers a variety of paddling for all levels of boating, and the Lower Eagle is the perfect Colorado [...]
Dowd Chute
The Eagle River, just minutes from Vail and Beaver Creek, is the home of Dowd Chute, which offers some of the most thrilling and [...]
Explore Glenwood Springs Adventures
Upper Colorado 4 Hour Fly Fishing Trip
Join AVA for a scenic fly-fishing excursion on the Upper Colorado River. Our 4- hour float trips are perfect for both novice and experienced [...]
Blue River Express White Water Rafting Trip
Join AVA on the Blue River on this 1/3-day family-friendly rafting trip! Splash through class III rapids and marvel at the scenery around you [...]
Rock Climb Half Day
Take in the Rocky Mountain scenery while our guides cover the basics of belaying, rappelling, and setting anchors. Whether you’re looking to learn more [...]
Dolores River 3 Day
This 47-mile run is full of intermediate Class III rapids with one easily scouted Class IV+ rapid thrown in to keep everyone on their [...]
Full Day Bike Rental
A full day exploring Breckenridge by bike, whether via the thrill of single track or cruising the many rec paths both in town and [...]
Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day
Try the newest, most fun activity on the river – Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)! On this half-day trip, you’ll SUP 5 miles down the [...]
Scenic Float Full Day
Experience the natural beauty of the Colorado River on our Full Day Upper Colorado Full Day Scenic Float trip! You’ll paddle a gently flowing [...]
Inflatable Kayaks Half Day
Looking to take charge of the river? On AVA’s Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak ½ Day trip you can do just that! Whether you want [...]
Your AVA Glenwood Springs Adventure
Glenwood Springs Rafting
The closest rafting to Glenwood Springs is on the Shoshone rapids, just outside of town. This milder class III whitewater rafting trip has a minimum age of 5 and takes you through the magnificent Glenwood Canyon. Visitors will experience stunning scenery, rapids such as the Man Eater, The Wall, and Tombstone, with plenty of time to relax and maybe even spot mountain goats!
Rafting the ARKANSAS RIVER
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Collegiate Peak Mountain Range within the Sawatch Range, as you embark on an unforgettable white-water rafting journey along the Arkansas River. Our Buena Vista outpost, 2 hours away from Glenwood Springs, provides access to this exciting waterway!
Arkansas River Trips
Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring scenery of one of Colorado’s most remarkable locations. Join our Browns Canyon 1/2 Day trip and paddle through the Browns Canyon National Monument, navigating intermediate class III rapids. Marvel at the stunning granite canyon, soak in the panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley, and maybe even encounter wildlife that call this area home. To elevate your adventure, choose our full-day Browns Canyon Sizzler or our 24 Hours in Browns trip–a unique adventure where you will camp under the starlit sky, waking up to the sounds of the river.
For those seeking an exhilarating experience amidst picturesque surroundings, our Numbers 1/2 day trip is the ultimate choice. Brace yourself for the most continuous section of white-water rafting on the Arkansas River, featuring thrilling class IV rapids that will get your adrenaline pumping. And if you’re up for the ultimate adrenaline rush, don’t miss our Rappel into the Gauntlet excursion. Begin your day with a thrilling 75-foot rappel to a waiting raft and conquer the heart-pounding class V rapids of the Arkansas River’s steepest section. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, our Arkansas River trips offer the perfect blend of excitement and stunning scenery!
THE COLORADO RIVER
The Colorado River, which spans across seven states and flows through the majestic Grand Canyon, is an iconic North American waterway. From the Continental Divide to the Gulf of California in Mexico, it represents a vital water source for millions of people, AVA is honored to provide access to this magnificent river from our convenient Kremmling outpost, located one and a half hours from Glenwood Springs.
Colorado River Trips
Explore The Colorado River with our scenic half-day and full-day float trips, and even choose from a variety of options including rafts, Inflatable Kayaks or Stand up Paddleboards. Drift along the river as it winds through the stunning Gore Range, encountering gentle rapids that create a soothing and enjoyable journey. Our float trips offer abundant opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and unwind amidst the tranquility of the river.
To experience the best of Colorado’s outdoors, day and night, embark on our overnight 24 Hours on the Upper Colorado trip. Fishing enthusiasts will also enjoy our range of Fly-Fishing opportunities, including Walk and Wade, Float, and Overnight trips. Experience the serenity of the river while honing your fishing skills and learning the best fishing spots on one of Colorado’s most renowned rivers!
Discover Glenwood Springs
THE CLOSEST RIVER TO Glenwood Springs
The closest river to Glenwood Springs is the Colorado River, 1.5 hours away in Kremmling, Colorado. The iconic Arkansas River is also only 2 hours away from Glenwood Springs.
THE CLOSEST OUTPOST TO Glenwood Springs
AVA’s closest outpost to Glenwood Springs is our Kremmling location, offering Colorado River activities along with exciting UTV rentals. We also recommend visiting our Buena Vista outpost, 2 hours away, for rafting, ziplining, Via Ferrata, rock climbing, fly-fishing, and horseback riding experiences.
Family-Friendly
Our half day float trip from our Kremmling outpost provides a great opportunity for families, with ages 2 and up able to raft! Spend time relaxing, paddling, swimming, and sunbathing on the Upper Colorado River
Thrill Seekers
For those looking for an adrenaline rush, we recommend our Gauntlet trip for the most intense Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River. Paddle through class III through V rapids, experiencing the thrill of continuous whitewater!
Aerial Adventures
The closest Ziplining is at our Buena Vista outpost, located 2 hours from Glenwood Springs. Here, visitors can fly through the trees and over the stunning Arkansas River Valley across 7 lines on our exciting Mountaintop Zipline course! We additionally offer a thrilling Granite Via Ferrata course at our Buena Vista outpost. Climb high into the cliffside, traverse across iron rungs and cables, and even swing on several lines of our zipline course
Glenwood Hot Springs
Relax and unwind in the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world. The pool’s natural mineral waters are rich in healthful minerals, offering therapeutic benefits and a soothing experience for visitors. Whether you’re looking to soak in the warm waters, swim laps, or enjoy the water slides and splash zones, the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool provides a refreshing escape.
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
Embark on an adventure at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, an amusement park perched atop Iron Mountain overlooking Glenwood Springs. Ride the thrilling Glenwood Canyon Flyer swing ride, soar above the canyon on the Cliffhanger roller coaster, or explore the stunning caverns on a guided cave tour.
Hanging Lake
Hike to the breathtaking Hanging Lake, a stunning turquoise-colored lake nestled in Glenwood Canyon. The trail to Hanging Lake is approximately 2.8 miles round-trip and features a series of switchbacks and bridges, offering panoramic views of the canyon and waterfalls along the way. Once at Hanging Lake, marvel at the crystal-clear waters and unique geological formations, and take in the serene beauty of this natural wonder.
Glenwood Springs Location
Glenwood Springs, in Garfield County, is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in western Colorado, situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by towering peaks and scenic canyons. Its central location in the state makes it easily accessible from major cities such as Denver and Grand Junction, as well as popular mountain destinations like Aspen and Vail.
Glenwood Springs History
Glenwood Springs has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century when it was founded as a resort town centered around its natural hot springs. The area’s therapeutic waters attracted early settlers and tourists seeking health and relaxation, leading to the development of hotels, bathhouses, and recreational facilities
Best Time to Raft
The best time to raft the Colorado River is May through October, with the Arkansas offering optimal conditions May through September.
Glenwood Springs Activities
The Glenwood Springs area offers access to numerous activities including rafting, ziplining, Via Ferrata, rock-climbing, and more, with options for ages 2 and up! We offer 1/2 day, full-day, and multi-day adventure options.
