Stay + Play In Glenwood Springs: Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Photos courtesy of Iron Mountain Hot Springs

From ancient times to the present day, people around the world have recognized the therapeutic benefits of soaking in Earth’s geothermal wonders (better known as hot springs). Western Colorado is adorned with some of the nation’s most recognized mineral waters; there’s even an 800-mile Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop that passes by 23 natural hot springs. Among them is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which as a seasoned soaker, I was especially intrigued to check out. After visiting, I can now say I’ve experienced the healing composition of the Dead Sea in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Who knew?

It’s no secret that Glenwood Springs is filled with year-round outdoor adventure. In true Colorado sprit, my favorite way to bookend an activity-filled day is in the hot springs — and Iron Mountain checks all the boxes. Inspired by the most famous hot springs on the planet, the newly opened WorldSprings offers 11 unique world pools (plus a freshwater pool with a waterfall and a cold plunge) in an adults-only area. Expect to see mineral pools that take the form of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland all the way to Hokkaido in Japan and Soda Springs in New Zealand.

“We designed WorldSprings as a way to bring some of the world’s most famous hot springs recipes to one location, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the healing properties of these springs without having to make quite the trek,” says Aaron McCallister, general manager of WorldSprings at Iron Mountain Hot Springs. “With our close proximity to Western Colorado, this elevated, adults-only experience is bound to be a hit with residents throughout the region for a date night, quick weekend trip or even just a quick, few hours away to soak and rejuvenate.”

The natural warmth of hot springs can help relax muscles, alleviate joint pain and improve blood circulation; the minerals present in hot springs — such as sulfur, silica and magnesium — are believed to promote skin health and even reduce stress levels. At Iron Mountain Hot Springs, it felt extra decadent to massage my feet into the stones located at the bottom of the pools while taking in the mountain views. Whether you reserve a three-hour slot or an all-day soak pass, the global soaking adventure offers a memorable experience for hot springs enthusiasts and newbies alike. Take it from my fiancé who never thought he’d enjoy a spa-like day so much!

Located alongside the Colorado River, Iron Mountain Hot Springs is open from 9 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. WorldSprings access tickets start at $55 and include locker and towel rentals. The Sandbar Café offers food and drink options exclusive to the adults-only area, while the general access area is home to 32 pools for all ages.

TIP: I didn’t bring a robe, but when I saw fellow visitors slipping on a fuzzy one in between soaks, I was jealous and now recommend packing one for yourself.

IF YOU GO

Book your overnight stay at Best Western Antlers, less than a five-minute drive from Iron Mountain Hot Springs. The accommodations are pet-friendly and include a continental breakfast — perfect for the no-frill traveler. Rooms start at $109 depending on the season. bestwestern.com

Grab a casual bite at Slope & Hatch, which serves crowd-favorite tacos. Or, reserve a table at The Pullman, celebrated for its innovative twists on American cuisine. After, it’s only practical to have dessert at Sundae Ice Cream.

Originally published in the Spring 2024 issue of Spoke+Blossom.