Are you planning for your cross-country skiing trip for this winter? Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort, the closest to Glenwood Springs, offers about 18 miles of cross-country trails. It’s located less than a half-hour from downtown Glenwood Springs, a picturesque town known for its natural hot springs and rich history. Whether you have an extra day, poor weather, or time to spare, check out these awesome local spots while cross-country skiing in Glenwood Springs.
If you’re a cross country skier, you’re no stranger to the soreness that sets in afterward. What better way to soothe those muscle aches than to soak them in natural hot springs? Iron Mountain Hot Springs is located in Glenwood Springs and about a half-hour from the Sunlight Mountain ski resort. It offers therapeutic thermal pools with water that’s naturally chock-full of minerals (not to mention totally Instagrammable views). Get ready for pure relaxation – just make sure you reserve your spot beforehand.
Sweet Coloradough is a coffee and doughnut shop that has made a name for itself (literally!) for its mouth-watering doughnuts. It opens at 6 a.m. – perfect for those looking for an early start. If you don’t have time for coffee before you hit the trails, they’ve also got beer, wine, cocktails, and sandwiches, so you can make your visit later in the day. With over 1,000 Google reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it’s a must-try.
If you’re traveling far and wide to cross-country ski in Glenwood Springs, take advantage of Colorado’s legal recreational marijuana policy (for those over 21) at Kind Castle Dispensary, one of the most unique dispensaries in Colorado. Locals won’t want to miss out on this spot either – it’s designed with an immersive castle theme, complete with a drawbridge you’ll walk through to enter. Inside, you’ll get to shop everything, from pre-rolls to edibles. It’s known for having the best cannabis flower selection in West Colorado and it runs frequent specials, giving you and your friends the chance to try something new.
To check out the products available at Kind Castle’s dispensary before you visit, visit their website. You can even order online ahead of time!
After a day of cross-country skiing, grab a drink and a bite to eat downtown at Native Son. Not only do they offer a relaxed bar atmosphere and a vegan-friendly menu, but they also have fare for the more adventurous. Almost all their meals can be made with elk, popular hunting game in Colorado that’s comparable to beef. Try their elk tacos, sliders, or mac and cheese, or stick to more traditional or Impossible meat options.
Looking for something a little fancier? Class it up at the Riviera Supper Club & Piano Bar. Located right in downtown Glenwood Springs, it’s a great spot for a nice dinner or cocktails and conversation. Better yet, it’s got a bit of fame tied to it – owner Jonathan Gorst was the Musical Director/Principal Conductor of the Phantom of the Opera tour.
If you have extra time at the beginning or end of your trip, consider tackling a different type of challenge with your group: work together to find clues and solve puzzles at Glenwood Escape Room. Each of its three rooms has different themes creepy enough to keep your team on its toes to try to escape in time – although only 45% of players do.
For those skiing in a group where not everyone knows each other, an escape room is a great way to kick off your trip and break the ice. This is also a fun alternative activity if the weather’s against you.
Glenwood Springs has a rich history, from its original Ute Indian inhabitants to the railroad boom. At the Frontier Museum, check out a replica of a pioneer’s house, and discover the town’s ranching and mining history, Ute influence, and status as an elite, resort-style town because of its hot springs. This is a great option for the non-skiers or the unplanned rainy day.
A trip isn’t complete until you realize you forgot something at home. Fortunately, the best ski shop in the area is close to Sunlight Mountain and has everything you might need while cross-country skiing. Sunlight Ski & Bike, voted local’s favorite ski shop, offers winter sport clothing, gear, accessories, and tune-ups.
They also offer cross-country ski rentals.
