My family moved to Rifle in 1976 and I always remember mom and dad would take me and my sister to the Hot Springs Pool every other Friday. I remember dad would launch me and my sister off his knee and send us flying back into the pool. And of course I will always remember the Copper Tone clock. I wonder what happened to that clock?
After swimming we’d always go to Los Desperados’ for Mexican food. My favorite was the gringo burger. I remember how much mom and dad loved their margaritas. Dad was able to get the recipe at the time and we still enjoy them today. Who would think you’d put ice cream in a margarita?
Another great memory was a 5th grade field trip riding in the dome car on the California Zephyr. The whole class took the train from Rifle to Glenwood (with our sack lunches) and then ended up at the Hot Springs Pool afterwards. What a wonderful day. The school also offered a ski/swim day every Wednesday. We always looked forward to going to Sunlight and then the Hot Springs after a day in the snow.
My favorite spot in the pool is hanging out at the deep end and listening to the traffic on I-70 and the bridge. It’s a huge bonus when a train comes by and hearing the whistle echo through the canyon. I have many fond memories here and continue to make it to the pool at least 4 times a year.