Things to Do in Glenwood Springs

Enjoy a relaxing float on the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon. Perfect for families, this trip offers scenic views and opportunities to dip in the river.

Looking for a river trip that hits the sweet spot between adventure and relaxation? Welcome to the Roaring Fork River, where mountain beauty, clear water, and splashy rapids combine for a truly unforgettable float. This stretch — from Carbondale to Glenwood Springs — is a local’s favorite, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Flowing clear and cold from the high country near Aspen, it winds through picturesque valleys, historic towns, and red rock canyons — and offers just enough splash to keep everyone grinning. As you float the Roaring Fork, you’re paddling through more than just water — you’re traveling through history, geology, and culture. Named for its lively current and “roaring” runoff, this river has carved its way through volcanic cliffs, cottonwood groves, and sandstone outcrops for thousands of years. Ideal for families, first-timers, and anyone looking to unplug and experience the quieter side of Colorado rafting with less crowds then on the Colorado River.

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Shoshone Rapids in Glenwood Canyon. Navigate Class III rapids and enjoy a scenic float through the canyon.

Raft through the heart of Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River, where dramatic canyon walls, playful Class II–III rapids, and calm scenic sections come together for a well-rounded on-water experience. Located just minutes from Glenwood Springs and an easy drive from Vail and Beaver Creek, this half-day trip blends excitement with incredible scenery. It’s our most popular option for a reason—offering just the right mix of splashy fun and relaxed floating, making it a great fit for all ages and experience levels.

Experience thrilling Class III rapids and scenic floats in Glenwood Canyon, Colorado. Enjoy an exciting rafting experience and stop to swim at various points along the way.

Looking for a trip but have kids under age 5 or under 50 pounds? Our Short & Mild Rafting Trip is great for anyone seeking a milder experience or trying rafting for the first time. This fun, scenic float with our experienced guides will keep everyone happy and safe. Easy class II rapids are a great introduction for young children or those who just want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the river without getting soaked! This trip is open to families with children as young as 2 years old. For families with children age 5 and older we recommend the Half Day Rafting Trip.

The classic Shoshone Rapids run twice, coupled with a float through the best of Glenwood Canyon into the town of Glenwood Springs. A guide favorite with limited availability and smaller rafts.

Feel free to leave the worries at home. This trip has just enough splash to remind you that you’re on a river but leaves out the intensity of the Shoshone rapids. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to kick-back and take in all that Glenwood Canyon has to offer. Hop out and do some swimming or even dip your toes in the hot springs that make their way into the Colorado River as you approach Glenwood Springs.

Explore the rugged Colorado backcountry on an off-road adventure at Historical Bair Ranch. Drive a 3-Seat or 6-Seat Can-Am Defender side-by-side through meadows, aspen groves, and desert ridges.

Craving an extra dose of adrenaline? Brace yourself for a thrilling experience on our Double Shoshone Rapids rafting excursion, tailor-made for thrill-seekers and seasoned adventurers searching for pure whitewater. With two heart-pounding runs through the Shoshone Rapids- bookended by a six-mile laid-back float through lower Glenwood Canyon to Glenwood Springs- come see why this trip is a favorite among our guides!

Embark on a 5-day e-bike journey from Aspen to Moab. Cycle through the Roaring Fork Valley, explore Glenwood Springs, ride through Palisade's Fruit & Wine Byway, and discover Moab Utah.

Experience the best of Glenwood Springs! This 3-hour rafting trip heads up river about 9 miles to the Shoshone Rapids in Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River. You'll get off to an exciting start as your guide navigates the class III-IV rapids including The Wall, Tombstone, Man Eater, Superstition and many more.

Embark on a 4-day e-bike journey from Aspen to Palisade. Ride through the Roaring Fork Valley, soak in Glenwood Springs, and explore the Fruit & Wine Byway.

Say ‘yes’ to a perfect day on the Colorado River! This ‘Half-Day Adventure’ offers a scenic, whitewater experience which is a must for water enthusiasts of all ages. Get on board with the professional guides to enjoy all the adventure of the class III ‘Shoshone Rapids,’ then slow it down and soak in the scenery of stunning Glenwood Springs Canyon as you play and paddle your way through class I-II whitewater. Each trip is about 3 - 3.5 hours long (total trip time) and departs and returns from 152 W 6th Street, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

Explore Colorado on a 7-day tour from Denver. Visit Rocky Mountain National Park, the Colorado National Monument, and the Glenwood Springs Hot Springs.

Ride across a private, working cattle ranch tucked into Glenwood Canyon, just a short drive from Glenwood Springs, Vail, and Beaver Creek. This is authentic Colorado ranch country—wide-open landscapes, peaceful trails, and a naturally unhurried pace, not a staged experience. Follow routes that wind through open pastures, shaded forest, and elevated ridgelines with sweeping canyon views. With limited groups and plenty of room to roam, the atmosphere feels quiet, personal, and connected to the land. Designed to be easygoing and accessible, the ride is well-suited for everyone from first-time riders to seasoned guests.

Looking for a rafting trip the whole family can enjoy? Set in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, this Glenwood Springs Family Float is a relaxed, scenic two-hour adventure designed with all ages in mind—from young kids to grandparents. The route follows a calm stretch of river with easy Class II and mild Class III rapids, featuring gentle waves, light splashes, and plenty of opportunities to laugh and play along the way. Guests can paddle, relax in the sun, or even hop in for a refreshing swim, creating a flexible experience that feels both fun and easygoing. Along the way, kids stay engaged helping paddle, spotting wildlife, and splashing through small rapids, while guides keep the trip safe, interactive, and enjoyable for everyone. With a laid-back pace and just the right amount of excitement, it’s a memorable way to spend time on the water together.

Shift into adventure mode on a guided UTV side-by-side tour at historic Bair Ranch, a private 6,000-acre working ranch set in the heart of Glenwood Canyon, just minutes from Glenwood Springs and about a 30-minute drive from Vail and Beaver Creek. You’ll follow your guide in a comfortable Polaris Ranger, a stable side-by-side, as you explore terrain far beyond what typical rentals or public trail systems offer. This exclusive experience provides access to rugged backcountry landscapes and sweeping views that most visitors never see. The tour includes approximately 2.5 hours on the trail, beginning with a safety briefing and orientation before heading out. From there, the route climbs through a diverse mix of terrain, including open meadows, aspen groves, high desert ridgelines, and wildlife-rich areas, gaining elevation from around 5,500 to nearly 9,000 feet. It’s more than just a ride—it’s an immersive journey through Colorado’s varied and scenic backcountry.

Save on per-person costs with a special rate. Enjoy your own private rafting guide and raft. It's a great way to ensure you can create and share your rafting experience with the people you choose. Enjoy undivided attention from one of Defiance Rafting Company's professional, locally-based river guides. Elect to swim, soak, and bring a cooler. Either way, plan on a beautiful, relaxing couple of hours on the Colorado River as you work your way through lower Glenwood Canyon and Glenwood Springs.

Book your private Departure transfer from Glenwood Springs Thermal Resorts to Denver International Airport (DEN). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. Our transfers will provide you with such services: meeting with a nameplate, door-to-door delivery, no hidden fees, clean cars, and professional drivers, which will make your trip more comfortable and safe. We guarantee the quality of the services provided.

Book your private Departure transfer from Glenwood Springs Thermal Resorts to Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers