In the winter Sunlight Mountain Resort is the perfect destination for family fun. With nearly 700 skiable acres and a 2,000 vertical foot drop, Sunlight offers big skiing at a family-friendly price. About 75% of Sunlight's terrain is rated as beginner or intermediate, making it the perfect place for families. In addition to downhill skiing you can also explore snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. 

On the Water in Glenwood Springs

Two rivers, the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River, converge in Glenwood Springs. Both are used extensively for recreation by locals, visitors and commercial outfitters. The waters of the Roaring Fork are "Gold Medal" fishing waters. The two raftable rivers make the experience fun for any skill level. The Roaring Fork River provides a tame float trip with very few Class 2 rapids. The Colorado River trip starting at Grizzley Creek is also a tame Class 2 float trip that is fun for anyone. Running the Colorado from the Shoshone put-in provides an amazing experience for thrill seekers with its upper Class 3 rapids. It is perfect for any adrenaline junkie. Glenwood Springs is proud to offer the first man-made whitewater park on the entire length of the Colorado River. Also known as the "G-Wave" it is located on the west side of Glenwood Springs and provides year-round enjoyment for river enthusiasts. On a hot day join locals on the Roaring Fork for an inner tube float – it's a great way to cool off.

On Land in Glenwood Springs

There are quite a few noted mountain bike trails in the Roaring Fork Valley, all requiring fitness and stamina. The favored routes for locals are the Forest Hollow Trail that winds along the rim above Glenwood Canyon and the Scout Trail, an extreme drop from the canyon rim into downtown Glenwood. Red Mountain, also known as the Jeanne Golay Trail, is a dirt trail up Red Mountain that locals use for training and exercise.

The 16-mile long recreation trail through Glenwood Canyon is sandwiched between the canyon walls and the Colorado River. It is suitable for families and recreational riders, with several access points and rest areas along the way. Bike rentals and shuttles are available from several outfitters in town. There is a paved loop along the Roaring Fork River that runs from one end of town to the other and back again. The Rio Grande trail runs roughly 41 miles from Glenwood Springs to Aspen along the railroad tracks of the former Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad.

Hanging Lake is a geologic wonder and is popular with visitors for its awe-inspiring beauty. Suspended on the edge of Glenwood Canyon's cliffs, the clear turquoise lake and the waterfalls that spill into it, are a breathtaking sight after the rigorous uphill climb. Hanging Lake is located in Glenwood Canyon about 7 miles east of Glenwood Springs. The lake is reached via a trailhead located off I-70 in the bottom of the canyon. 

Glenwood is located in a valley surrounded by mountains, this unique geography provides hundreds of miles of off-road jeeping and dirt bike trails minutes from downtown Glenwood Springs. The most popular trail near Glenwood Springs is called Transfer Trail. This trail starts on the base of Iron Mountain and travels on the Flattops going near many pristine mountain lakes and hidden caves.

Glenwood Springs has a rich history that can be explored. The Frontier Historical Society and Museum showcases what life was like for residents and visitors. Wander through a replica of a typical pioneer household. They offer guided and self-guided tours. Be sure to hike to Linwood "Pioneer" Cemetery where outlaws "Doc" Holiday and Harvey "Kid Curry" are both buried. The train station is home to Glenwood Springs Railroad Museum and showcases railroad artifacts.

For a look at local artists check out Artists Mercantile and Gallery, CMC ArtShare Gallery, Cooper Corner Gallery, Glenwood Springs Center for the Arts and Art on 8th which supports a community of individuals with developmental disabilities.

In the summer the Tuesday night farmer's market features local produce, food and music. Two Rivers Park is located at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers. It features 22 acres, restrooms, picnic area, playground and is the home to free Wednesday night summer concerts in the amphitheater. Bring a blanket, a picnic and enjoy the music. On Friday nights Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park hosts Music on the Mountain.