Our Employee of the Month for February is Cindy Frale.  Cindy is an Aerobics Instructor at the Glenwood Hot Springs Athletic Club and has been here since February, 1993!  Cindy is a super power when it comes to sharing positive energy and having a great attitude.  She has an amazing work ethic and is a prime example of a team player.  Our guests and members are greeted with a smile and they never leave disappointed after taking one of Cindy’s classes.   

Club Manager, Mark Volf, says, “First and foremost, I would like to thank Cindy for her 31 years of committed service to Glenwood Hot Springs Resort! Cindy’s behavior demonstrates examples of bringing our purpose of providing a destination of fun and well-being through our water by creating lasting memories, loyalty and personal connections to life.  Through her classes, Cindy offers committed experiences to all who participate and she is a community ambassador for the resort.  Thanks again for being on our team!”   

Cindy has this to share, “I am so humbled and honored to have received Employee of the Month! I started as a lifeguard in 1981 and over 30 years ago joined the amazing Athletic Club Team as an Instructor. This amazing place has been such a big part of my life. I have taught just about every type of class and I can honestly say I LOVE what I do and every person I have been blessed to have met along the way. I thank all of you for this award. My heart is full!” 

Thank you Cindy, for your service and commitment to this company and the community.  We couldn’t be more proud to recognize you as our February Employee of the Month! 

At Glenwood Hot Springs Resort in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, the water isn’t just water. The naturally heated, geothermal goodness comes from the on-site source spring known as Yampah Spring, which generates an impressive 3.5 million gallons of water daily.

This unique water that flows into the world’s largest hot springs pool is distilled deep within the ground and features more than 15 different minerals, each with their own unique benefits to humans. The source for Yampah Spring is south of the Colorado River in the Lookout Mountain and Grand Hogback areas. The healing hot springs water percolates through fractures in the bedrock formation into the Leadville aquifer. As this occurs, the water is heated by the geothermal gradient in the area.

There is history in this water

Long ago, the Ute people of what is now western Colorado named the spring Yampah, meaning big medicine. They considered hot springs sacred, incorporating soaking as part of their tribal rituals, and understood the power of hot springs long before scientists discovered the nuances of cellular biology and biochemistry. It was not uncommon for the Utes to bathe themselves and their horses in the hot springs in preparation for battle.

In Glenwood Springs’ early days, Walter Devereux opened Glenwood Hot Springs Pool on July 4, 1888, launching the community as one of Colorado’s earliest tourist destinations. Devereux would surely be surprised knowing there is now a Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop featuring 23 hot springs attractions in western Colorado alone, including Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.

Understanding the science

Science shows that even though skin is a formidable barrier, it’s also permeable and porous, allowing trace amounts of minerals to pass through when people soak in natural hot springs water. Each of the 15 minerals found in the Rocky Mountain water at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort—boron, calcium, chloride, fluoride, iron, lithium, magnesium, manganese, nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, silica, sodium, sulfate and zinc—possess unique qualities. Together they deliver a small, safe and healthful dose while soaking.

By simply relaxing in the pool at Glenwood Hot Spring Resort, the minerals are passively absorbed in the skin and have been known to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, asthma, skin disorders, depression and more. In addition, soaking in warm water also has been known to relieve aches and pain, plus increases in body temperature can help naturally eliminate toxins, increase circulation and reduce blood pressure.

The resort also has a drinking spring for sipping Yampah Spring water that will reopen early this summer after renovations.

To find out more about the science of hot springs water and the overall topic of balneotherapy, go to the Global Wellness Institute’s website. The institute defines balneotherapy as “using natural thermal and mineral waters as a healing approach, which is studied medically as balneotherapy and has a history of over 4,000 years and is used all over the world as part of traditional therapies.” In addition, balneotherapy “refers to the use of thermal water and waters with minerals, salts, sulfur, and other organic elements as an approach for treating conditions ranging from pain to stress.”

How to indulge in the hot springs

The water from Yampah Spring is approximately 122°F (51°C), so it is cooled down for human enjoyment at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. While the recently redesigned Therapy Pool is kept at a warmer 104°F (40°C), the Grand Pool is 90° to 93°F (32° to 34°C) for lounging, playing, swimming laps and going off the diving board.

The opportunity to benefit from the science of hot springs water and savor the beautiful mountain surroundings is about to get even grander as Glenwood Hot Springs Resort opens the pool’s new east end early this summer. As part of a multiyear plan to continue thoughtful stewardship and add amenities for guests, the expansion is adding five new pools of varying temperatures and configurations (including waterfalls and natural stone grottos) that will be filled with the nourishing Yampah Spring water. In fact, the mother spring is located on the east end and will be more of a visual focus at the resort with new landscaping and signage.

The east end expansion will give guests even more room to spread out, enjoy the geothermal water, and find your own space for relaxation and contemplation. The east end was created with adults in mind while Sopris Splash Zone on the west end is ideal for families and the historic Grand Pool and Therapy Pool in the center appeal to all ages.

Take a water break at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and drink in the magic of soothing your mind, body and spirit in warm water while surrounded by mountain vistas accompanied by rising steam and perhaps beautiful sunshine, snowflakes gently falling or stars twinkling overhead. The science of hot springs water, gorgeous setting and convenient location are sure to keep you coming back for more.

Congratulations X’Zandra! Our Employee of the Month for January is X’Zandra Coulsby.  X’Zandra works as a Lodge House Person and has been with the Resort since July 2022. X’Zandra is a superstar! She is ALWAYS willing to help others, and the words “That’s not my job” do not exist in her vocabulary. Countless times, she has stepped up to make our guests happy, and when short-staffed, she will always help clean rooms and do laundry, all while completing her own tasks. Lodge Assistant Manager Chris Whelpton says, “X’Zandra is an excellent employee and an asset to our company. I am consistently impressed with her attitude and productivity. She is self-motivated and needs no supervision to complete her responsibilities. She treats our guests with the highest level of hospitality, which allows our guests to focus on enjoying themselves while at our property.”   
Thank you, X’Zandra, for your excellent service and commitment to this company. We couldn’t be more proud to recognize X’Zandra Coulsby as our January Employee of the Month!  

For the 4th year, the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort invited its guests to submit “love letters” as part of its Valentine's celebrations. Visitors from all over submitted their stories through our mailboxes in the lobby of the pool and club or through our website via QR code. 

This year boasts one of the best for the quantity and quality of entries, making the judging process one of the most difficult, with 172 entries. Thirteen lucky winners were selected. Below are some of the winning entries; more will be featured on our Facebook page over the next few days as well. We hope their stories move you as much as they did all the judges.

Kimberly Marcum, Resort Sales Manager, says, "Thank you to everyone who participated in our "Love Letter" contest. Your stories have painted vivid portraits of laughter-filled summers, tranquil evenings under starlit skies, and cherished moments with loved ones against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains."

Grand Prize Winner: EJ Dilley

Dearest Glenwood Hot Springs,

As the chill of winter settles in, my heart warms at the thought of our annual trip to your relaxing waters. Each year, as we gather with our extended family, it feels like stepping into a memory, where laughter echoes, and joy dances in every ripple.

In our visit, the generations intertwine, as the young ones lead us with their boundless energy, and the adults rediscover the magic of carefree play. Despite the distances that separate us throughout the year, it is here, that we find a joyful reunion.

Your waters nourish the bonds of family love that span across time and distance. For that, we are forever grateful. You are more than just a destination; you are the keeper of cherished memories, and the silent witness to our joys.

With heartfelt gratitude, 

The Martins, Dilleys, Bongas, Rapoports

Winning Runners-Up Letters

Colleen Pennington

You always calm me when I’m stressed, let me float in your healing waters, bring me & my loved ones closer, and remind me how lucky I am to live in the best place on earth. I LOVE YOU GLENWOOD HOT SPRINGS, & I’ll always come back to you after being away <3

 Jashine Wise

Growing up in the valley, The Hot Springs Pool has always been one of those places you looked forward to visiting, but probably took a little for granted because it's right in your back yard. Funny how that works...the things we see every day, but forget how truly special they really are. 

My love of the pool started in elementary school on a class field trip. Flying down the old slide was the highlight of the day!! I visited on many school trips through the years, and each one as fun as the last. 

When I began training with the Roaring Fork Women’s Triathlon Team and found myself swimming circles the length of the entire pool, it sparked a new love and respect for the water. Now, my young family and I visit the pool almost weekly. Of course, the kids’ favorite features are the diving board, Splash Zone and Shoshone Chutes!! How incredibly lucky I am to be able to re-live some of my favorite childhood memories now with my children. 

The Hot Springs Pool is truly a gift to this valley. And until now, as I sit here reminiscing, I'm not sure I every fully understand just how special it really is!

Staff Favorite Winners

Michael Armbruster

Glenwood Springs is family. For the last 15 years we have met in Glenwood Springs every end of July for my father‘s birthday and for a family reunion. We love meeting there, we love swimming, the people are always friendly, and we love the ice cream cones! Last year on dad‘s birthday - his 99th - people all over the pool sang happy birthday to him. He was so excited that hundreds of people were singing, happy birthday! What a friendly place.! Family flies in from all over the country for this reunion. 

Thank you, Glenwood Springs, for so many years of good hospitality and good swimming!

Paul Jacobi

A Hot Springs Haiku

Snow falls, steam rises

They dance in morning sunlight

My world is complete

 Mac Turner

I love the staff and the lifeguards. When I swim, I feel like I can fly. Jumping off the diving board is one of my favorite things to do in the WORLD. Thank you for sharing the pool with our community!

ADDITIONAL WINNERS WILL BE FEATURED ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

Joan Adler

Brooke Harper

Rebecca Lundin

Roan Marshall

Karen Matel

Megan Neri

Maureen O'Brien

One of Colorado’s best-known historic attractions keeps getting better with time. Located on the site of the prolific Yampah Spring that produces 3.5 million gallons of pure mineral springs water a day, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is moving toward completion of five spacious new pools and other sweet amenities on the east end of the world’s largest hot springs pool.

Due to open in early summer 2024, East End Expansion Project is the third phase of a multiyear plan that introduces new features, implements improvements, and continues good stewardship of Glenwood Hot Springs Resort that originally opened in Glenwood Springs on July 4, 1888.

East End Expansion
The east end is an entirely new swimming area designed for adults with five additional pools featuring varying water temperatures, a shade pergola, and an outdoor lounging area with a hearth. Pools of varying temperatures are part of the innovative design as well as two pools with waterfalls, including one that provides a natural stone grotto experience. As with the historic Grand Pool and Therapy Pool, the geothermal heated water for the new pools comes directly from Yampah Spring and features 15 naturally occurring minerals that soothe mind, body and spirit. There is no extra cost for guests to access this new area.

As part of the project, the area around the source spring is being landscaped, the historic drinking spring reopened, and signage installed to tell the story of this Glenwood Springs heritage property. The Ute people were some of the earliest discoverers of the therapeutic hot springs that flowed along the banks of the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon and named them Yampah, which means “big medicine.”

“We’re bringing some of the best thinking in pool design to construct this completely new area at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort that expands and enhances what we offer our guests. Sopris Splash Zone on the west end is ideal for families, the historic Grand Pool and Therapy Pool in the center appeal to all ages, and the east end was created with adults in mind,” says Kevin Flohr, president, CEO and COO. “There will be even more room to spread out and find a peaceful space, enjoy the health benefits of our geothermal waters, and savor the surrounding mountain scenery of the world’s largest hot springs pool.”

The existing pools remain unaffected by the east end construction and are open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round. As always, no reservations are needed, and guests can come and go as they please, all day during business hours.

Resort Upgrades & Features
The first phase of Glenwood Hot Springs Resort’s multiyear improvement plan, Sopris Splash Zone, opened in 2019. Phase two wrapped up in 2022 and included major upgrades to the Therapy Pool and all changing rooms. The fourth phase will be announced later this year.

When pulling a crew together—whether it’s family, friends or business colleagues—the place selected makes a big difference. In fact, locations have been known to make or break attendance for reunions, celebrations and corporate gatherings. That’s why booking hot springs destinations is so attractive.

The iconic Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and Glenwood Springs, Colorado, are bucket-list places for travelers and appealing to various ages, interests and budgets. In fact, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has been soothing locals, visitors and groups with mineral hot springs soaking since 1888.

To assist planners, we’ve put together a list of four reasons to meet at hot springs.

A Place to Relax 

Mineral hot springs are a natural place to kick back, relax and connect with each other. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, the world’s largest hot springs pool, has something for everyone. The Therapy Pool is a cozy 104°F (40°C) while the Grand Pool is 90° to 93°F (32° to 34°C), perfect for swimming laps, lounging and playing.

Sopris Splash Zone on the west end is a big draw for families with Shoshone Chutes river tube ride; a children’s play area with three small slides, waterfalls, interactive water features and shallow play areas; and a splash pad that turns into the colorfully lighted Grand Fountain at night. Sopris Splash Zone is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day as well as fall weekends and during spring break in March as weather and staffing allows.

By late spring or early summer this year, there will be a new area on the east end that is focused on adults with five smaller natural hot springs pools and many other great features.

For people who like to keep their gym routine intact while traveling, the resort also has a full-service athletic club. Guests of Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge have the option to add discounted athletic club day passes that include the use of equipment, access to classes and the handball/racquetball courts, and use of the wet room featuring a sauna, steam room and whirlpool.
 

Nearby Activities

It’s helpful to have fun activity options near the hot springs, which is often the case when the attraction is in the heart of town. For example, Yampah Caves & Spa, Glenwood Springs Community Art Center, and a trailhead for Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path are all within a block of Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. In addition, downtown Glenwood Springs is an easy walk over the pedestrian bridge and is filled with unique shops, restaurants, breweries, a distillery and nightlife. 

Make sure to check a community’s schedule for events like Glenwood Springs’ Strawberry Festival, outdoor concerts and Market on 7th in the summer. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Sunlight Mountain Resort, and a museum devoted to Doc Holliday on the lower level of Bullock's western store also are great places to check out. Don’t miss playing a round of golf, fishing on local rivers and lakes, traversing the Colorado River on a whitewater rafting excursion, and hitting the trails for hiking, biking and snowshoeing.

Lodging, Spaces & Services for Groups

In the early stages of planning, make sure your chosen hot springs resort is set up to seamlessly host groups. For example, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has a sales team available to assist planners with all the details, including catering, room blocks, and meeting space reservations.

“We spent four days here with 46 of us, and they did such a great job accommodating our large group,” notes Lisa E. in a recent Google review. “They were fabulous to work with, and the staff was great. I would definitely recommend!”

Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge, located across from the pool, features 107 guest rooms and two conference rooms with a pre-function area, making the property an ideal location for groups of up to 50 guests. The Iron Mountain Room can be organized in a variety of seating configurations, holding a maximum of 50 theatre-style. The Ute Mountain Room is set up as a board room and holds up to 16. Both conference rooms are available for full- or half-day rentals and have high-speed wireless and hard-wired internet access, LCD projectors and smart boards.

The poolside Grill (after hours of operation) and the movement studio at the athletic club are also available for private events.

All overnight lodge guests receive complimentary made-to-order hot breakfast at the poolside Grill and unlimited access to the hot springs during business hours, which are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in summer and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. the rest of the year. If someone forgets a swimsuit or other essentials, the shop located in the pool lobby has a selection of clothing, souvenirs and other items.  

Easy Access & Parking 

A key item on any planner’s checklist is making sure people can get to the destination. While some hot springs are off the beaten path, others are simple to access like Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, located just off Interstate 70.

The closest airports to Glenwood Springs are Eagle County Regional Airport in Gypsum and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. Another option is taking the train. Amtrak’s California Zephyr runs from Chicago to the San Francisco Bay area, making a variety of stops in Colorado, including Glenwood Springs. If you fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), take the A Line RTD train from DEN to Denver Union Station downtown and catch Amtrak there. It’s a perfect way to experience both a dynamic city and a beautiful mountain town like Glenwood Springs.

Parking costs can quickly add to a group’s budget and many hot springs don’t charge for parking. Once in Glenwood Springs, it is easy to not do any driving and parking at most places is free. Parking for guests of Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge and Pool is complimentary, and there are electric vehicle charging stations.

Hot springs are sure to inspire some big ideas, and out-of-the-box thinking and provide pure fun for your group. Tap these four reasons to meet at hot springs and get planning today!

 

Voting is live through March 17th in the Glenwood Springs Post Independent Locals' Choice Awards

Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is proud to be nominated by our local fans for 14 categories in the 2024 Locals' Choice Awards. You can vote every day from now through March 17th in the categories below: 

Arts & Entertainment

• Best Attraction
• Best Entertainment Venue
• Best Family Entertainment
• Best Late Night Spot
• Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday
• Best Place for a Romantic Date (non-restaurants)
• Best Winter Festival or Event

Body & Soul

• Best Fitness Class (Both H20 Fit & Yoga)
• Best Gym or Fitness Studio
• Best Yoga Studio

  
Community

• Best Place to take an Out-Of-Town Guest
• Best Place to Work (21+ Employees)
• Best Staycation Location

Services

• Best Hotel
  
   

Congratulations Karen! 

Our Employee of the Month for December is Karen Kinney.  Karen is a Sales Clerk at The Shop at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and has been here since 2018.  Karen is an excellent example of what an employee and team member can be, and she can always be counted on.  She is always friendly with our guests and coworkers.  She works well with others, has a positive attitude and everyone appreciates her teamwork and kindness.  Karen is thorough in her work, even when it takes extra effort, and always greets you with a smile. 

Our Retail Shop Manager Pat Oddan says, “Karen has recently stepped up and gone above and beyond to help cover duties outside of her job description to help the Shop team.  She has been willing to change her schedule and learn new things.  We are very fortunate to work with her.”   

Thank you Karen for your excellent service and commitment to this company.  We couldn’t be more proud to recognize you as our December Employee of the Month! 

Imagine indulging in natural hot springs under a star-filled sky while surrounded by snowcapped peaks and snuggling close to a special someone. The conversation recalls a day of pure relaxation topped off with gourmet dinner or an amazing adventure on the slopes wrapped up with après ski at a local distillery or brewery. It’s easy to plan a romantic Colorado getaway this February with Valentine’s and Ski, Swim & Stay packages at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort in Glenwood Springs. 

Love to Relax

Why limit the expression of love to only Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14? Our popular Valentine’s Package returns from Feb. 1-29, 2024, and is subject to availability.

The package includes 10% off lodging at Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge, unlimited admission to Glenwood Hot Springs Pool from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., complimentary hot breakfast at the poolside Grill, a $75 gift card to The Pullman or The Riviera Scratch Kitchen, one bottle of sparkling wine (or nonalcoholic sparkling cider), and two etched champagne flutes. Prices vary based on room type and timeframe booked, and you must be 21 or older with a valid ID to purchase the Valentine’s Package.

On your first day, take a casual stroll together over the pedestrian bridge that connects Glenwood Hot Springs Resort to downtown and celebrate each other with an amazing meal at The Pullman or The Riviera Scratch Kitchen, two of Glenwood Springs’ finest dining establishments. After dinner, or perhaps before, slip into the comfort of plush robes that are provided for the duration of your stay and relish unlimited soaking in the world’s largest hot springs pool. Conclude the evening with a glass of bubbly.

Begin your next day of leisure with made-to-order breakfast at the Grill and a soak in the glorious mineral hot springs before walking to local coffee houses and shops downtown. For something more active, head out on a snowshoe, walk or Nordic ski on trails that wind through forests dusted in snow, and indulge in another soak to wrap up a day meant for two. 

Passion for the Outdoors

For adventuresome couples, a romantic vacation typically involves plenty of time outdoors surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and perhaps getting whisked to powder stashes for the ultimate in skiing and snowboarding. With the Ski Swim Stay Package, ski or ride all day at the local Sunlight Mountain Resort and then soothe tired but happy muscles at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.  

The package includes overnight accommodations just steps away at the Lodge, complimentary hot breakfast at the poolside Grill, unlimited access to the hot springs pool from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and one lift ticket to Sunlight Mountain Resort per adult. If Valentine’s fun is a family affair, no worries as one child (age 12 and under) per paying adult receives a free lift ticket. A shuttle ride provided by Sunlight also is included for the ultimate in convenience.

One of the best parts about this gem of a ski resort is you won’t stand in line long as it doesn’t get crowded and there are 72 trails to spread out. That means plenty of laps on terrain for all levels and time to stop for lunch at Grizz Grill. There is no need to be pros here, just bring a desire to have fun together.

Celebrate your love all season long as this package is available now through April 1, 2024, with blackout dates on Feb. 16-19 and March 9-24, 2024. 

Heavenly Hot Springs

Stay multiple days at the Lodge and know that you will wake up to a blissful soak after a leisurely breakfast every morning. Water from the on-site Yampah Spring is constantly filling two large pools with geothermal goodness. The recently renovated Therapy Pool is the perfect place to let the healing hot springs water work its magic, soothing both body and mind at around 104°F. The larger hot springs pool is 90 to 93°F, a perfect temperature that is warm, yet refreshing year-round.

There is something special about basking in the Colorado sunshine during the day, but there also is a divine quality to winter nights when steam from the hot springs provides the feeling of being wrapped in a cloud. Take time to float on your back in the mineral-dense water and savor the views.

For a rendezvous to remember, plan a romantic Colorado getaway to Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.