COME TO LIFE | Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, Basalt, Snowmass, Aspen Roaring Fork Valley Escape to Nature in the Iron Mountain Hot Springs Day 1 Book stays in Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, Basalt, Snowmass and Aspen — the Roaring Fork River flows through a valley that has always been a favored playscape in these mountain towns. Start the day with a mountain-bike ride in the Red Mountain’s trail system for sweet views, climbs and downhill action minutes from the walkable downtown of Glenwood Springs (there’s also a free bus in town). Hikers head to many trails that leave right from town. Hanging Lake, a National Natural Landmark, is in Glenwood Canyon. The Hanging Lake Trail hike requires a reservation year-round. Find more information at visitglenwood.com/hanginglake. Next, wash aches away in the Colorado River-side Iron Mountain Hot Springs’ soaking pools, Yampah Spa’s steam baths and Glenwood Hot Springs, home to the world’s largest hot-springs pool and several new water features. Get your bearings from Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park’s gondola, which lifts you off the valley floor to the top of Iron Mountain. The caverns’ new Defiance Coaster and more provide maximum thrills. For a blast 118 1-800-COLORADO of another sort, hook up with a rafting outfitter for a Colorado River ride through Glenwood Canyon. Then dine alfresco along Seventh Avenue, browse downtown’s shops and stay the night. Day 2 In the bike-and walkable Certified Colorado Creative District of Carbondale, great restaurants, arts events, galleries and workshops can be had all over town. Travel along the Rio Grande ARTway for more art, gardens and Mount Sopris views. The (free!) Powers Art Center focuses on contemporary and pop art. It’s also recognized as an age-friendly community by AARP. One of “The Top 10 Adventure Towns in the U.S.,” outdoor pursuits include biking (hit the trails at Prince Creek and Red Continued on page 120. IRON MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS.
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2023: Page 118
