Wander Wild, Stay Cozy: Year-Round Adventures Await in White River National Forest with Hotel Colorado as Your Basecamp
Glenwood Springs is more than just a charming mountain town – it’s surrounded by one of the most spectacular natural playgrounds in the country. The White River National Forest offers a kaleidoscope of outdoor adventures in every season. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, pedaling through golden aspens, or carving fresh powder, this forest delivers the kind of nature-loving fun that will leave you grinning from trailhead to tailgate. Unfold your trail maps and make the historic Hotel Colorado your Exploration Headquarters!
America’s Most Popular National Forest
Spanning 2.3 million acres in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, it’s no wonder White River National Forest welcomes over 12 million outdoor enthusiasts every year – it’s the state’s largest and arguably the most beloved in the country. Established in 1896, it boasts eight wilderness areas, 11 major ski resorts like Vail and Aspen, and hundreds of miles of trails that welcome hikers, bikers, and snow sports enthusiasts year-round. Popular spots like Hanging Lake, Glenwood Canyon, and Trappers Lake draw wanderers from around the world.
Glenwood Canyon: Ride, Raft, and Revel
Let’s start with the showstopper – Glenwood Canyon. This dramatic corridor carved by the Colorado River is a feast for the senses. The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path winds alongside the river, offering a smooth, scenic ride for cyclists of all levels. Rent a bike in town and cruise past towering cliffs, whispering cottonwoods, and the occasional bighorn sheep posing like a local celebrity.
For thrill-seekers, rafting the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon is a must. Outfitters offer everything from mellow scenic floats to splashy whitewater runs through the legendary Shoshone Rapids. It’s the perfect blend of adrenaline and awe, with canyon walls rising 1,300 feet above you and bald eagles soaring overhead.
Hanging Lake: A Hike to Heaven
Just off the recreation path lies one of Colorado’s crown jewels – Hanging Lake. This short but steep hike leads you up Dead Horse Creek Canyon to a turquoise lake that seems to defy gravity. Formed by a geological fault and framed by travertine deposits, the lake glows with an otherworldly hue thanks to mineral-rich waters cascading from Bridal Veil Falls.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Just a few hundred feet beyond the lake, you’ll find Spouting Rock, a waterfall that bursts straight through a cliff face. Yes, you can walk behind it. Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds.
Permits are required to protect this fragile ecosystem, so plan ahead – and bring your camera. Hanging Lake is a National Natural Landmark for good reason.
Off-Road Adventures: Jeeping & ATV Fun
If your idea of a good time involves mud, motors, and mountain views, the White River National Forest has you covered. The Transfer Trail OHV route and nearby Fourmile Park offer miles of rugged terrain for ATV and Jeeping. Wind your way through alpine meadows, climb rocky ridges, and discover hidden lakes – all just a short drive from Hotel Colorado.
Fall Colors: A Golden Glow
Autumn in the White River National Forest is a vibrant symphony of color. Aspen groves shimmer with brilliant hues, cottonwoods blaze in fiery oranges, and the crisp mountain air adds a refreshing zing to every hike. Cruise up Four Mile Road or wander the trails near Sunlight Mountain Resort for some of Colorado’s finest fall foliage. Don’t forget your flannel – it’s practically a local uniform.
Winter Wonderland: Snow Sports Galore
When the snow flies, the forest transforms into a powdery paradise. Sunlight Mountain Resort, just 12 miles from Hotel Colorado, offers affordable skiing and snowboarding with stunning views of Mount Sopris. Prefer a quieter pace? Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing through the forest’s groomed trails. And if you’re feeling adventurous, snowmobiling through the backcountry is an unforgettable way to explore winter’s wild side.
Hotel Colorado: Your Basecamp for Adventure
After a day of exploring, return to the historic Hotel Colorado, your cozy homebase in Glenwood Springs. Warm up by the fire, soak in the nearby hot springs, and relive the day’s adventures over a hearty meal. With its elegant charm and unbeatable location, Hotel Colorado is the perfect launchpad for your White River National Forest experience. So pack your boots, channel your sense of wonder, and come see why the White River National Forest is truly the best in the country.