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Glenwood Canyon: A Colorado Masterpiece

Experience the grandeur of Glenwood Canyon: where natural beauty meets engineering innovation in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

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Glenwood Canyon is a stunning 12.5-mile canyon carved by the Colorado River, featuring towering walls, diverse recreational activities, and remarkable engineering. It serves as a vital transportation corridor and a scenic gateway to the Rocky Mountains.

A brief summary to Glenwood Canyon

  • Glenwood Springs, Colorado, US

Local tips

  • Check road conditions and weather forecasts before traveling, as the canyon is subject to closures due to flash flood risk, rock slides, wildfires, or snow.
  • Obtain permits in advance if you plan to hike to Hanging Lake, as they are required and sell out quickly.
  • Bring your bike and explore the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, a scenic paved trail that runs alongside the Colorado River.
  • Stop at the rest areas within the canyon to access hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots.
  • Be aware of wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, and keep a safe distance.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Glenwood Canyon is traversed by Interstate 70 (I-70). If you are approaching from the east or west, follow I-70 to the various exits within the canyon for access to rest areas, trailheads, and attractions. Be aware that there is no westbound exit for Hanging Lake; if traveling west on I-70, take the Grizzly Creek exit #121 and head back east to Hanging Lake exit #125. There are no tolls to drive through the canyon. Parking is available at the rest areas, including Bair Ranch, Grizzly Creek, and No Name. Parking at Hanging Lake requires a permit.

  • Biking

    The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path provides access to the canyon for cyclists. You can access the path from Glenwood Springs or Dotsero, as well as from the rest areas within the canyon. From Glenwood Springs, access is available near the Yampah Vapor Caves. The path is paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. There is no cost to use the path. Parking is available at the various rest areas along the way.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no public transportation directly within Glenwood Canyon, Amtrak's California Zephyr train passes through the canyon, with a stop in Glenwood Springs. From Glenwood Springs, you can access the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path or drive to the various points of interest within the canyon. Amtrak tickets vary depending on the distance and class of service.

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Discover more about Glenwood Canyon

Glenwood Canyon, a rugged and scenic 12.5-mile (20 km) canyon in western Colorado, is a natural and man-made wonder. Carved over millions of years by the Colorado River, the canyon's walls rise as high as 1,300 feet (400 m), showcasing layers of sedimentary rock and geological history. The canyon has served as a crucial passage through the Colorado Rockies for centuries. Originally a Ute Indian trail, it later became the route for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad in the late 19th century, followed by the Taylor State Road, a wagon road completed in 1902. Today, it accommodates Interstate 70, a marvel of engineering that integrates seamlessly with the environment. The construction of I-70 through Glenwood Canyon, completed in 1992, was the last piece of the original US Interstate System. The project involved building numerous bridges, viaducts, and tunnels while preserving the canyon's natural beauty. Visitors can explore the canyon through various recreational activities. The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, a 16.3-mile paved trail, follows the Colorado River, offering opportunities for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing. Rest areas like Bair Ranch, Grizzly Creek, and No Name provide access to hiking trails, picnic spots, and fishing access points. Hanging Lake, a National Natural Landmark, is a popular hiking destination within the canyon, requiring permits for access. Glenwood Canyon is more than just a scenic drive; it's a testament to the power of nature and human ingenuity, offering a unique blend of recreation, history, and geological wonder.

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