Fourty or so road miles northwest of Aspen on Highway 70 towards Grand Junction, is one of Colorado's true Rocky Mountain jewels. The very picturesque town of Glenwood Springs sits at the confluence of the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork River. This small town is not altogether unfamiliar with the notoriety and glamour of the world's beautiful people. Yet somewhat separated from its more famous neighbors, Glenwood Springs is easily accessible to Aspen, Vail and other Summit County resorts.

Glenwood Springs' geothermal hot springs and nearby vapor caves give rise to the growing popularity of the area, but have been rejuvenating visitors for centuries. The Ute Indians had come to this valley in pursuit of the huge herds of deer and elk that found comfort at the springs. The Utes summered at the place they called Yampa. Yampa means Big Medicine, since the vapors and sulfur of the springs and caves were thought to be a curative for whatever ailed the body.

Early settlers found similar comfort in the waters in the 1860s. The Utes showed them how to use the water's healing powers to help an injured member of their party. It didn't take long for word to quickly spread of this natural wonder. Almost immediately, people from far and wide began making the arduous journey here to find relief from their ailments.

Today, many visitors come to Glenwood Springs to explore its rich history and geothermal features throughout the year. The area also offers extensive outdoor recreational opportunities in the surrounding White River National Forest and Sunlight Mountain Resort. Getting around is easy and great restaurants, historic hotels and friendly service compliment the area.