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Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park: Thrills on Top of the World

Experience thrilling rides and captivating cave tours at America's only mountaintop theme park, high above Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

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Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, perched atop Iron Mountain in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is America's only mountaintop theme park. It blends thrilling rides with stunning natural beauty, offering cave tours and panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.

A brief summary to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

  • Friday 10 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the mountain weather can be unpredictable; bring a light jacket, as the caves maintain a cool 52 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season; consider walking, biking, or taking public transportation to minimize parking congestion.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money; also, review height requirements for rides to avoid disappointment.
  • Take advantage of combo tickets for discounts if you plan to visit other local attractions like the Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the park, as there are some steep pathways and gravel areas.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various points in Glenwood Springs, utilize the Ride Glenwood Springs (RGS) public bus service or the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA). RGS operates daily with buses running every 30 minutes. Check the RFTA website for schedules and routes. A one-day unlimited pass on Ride Glenwood On-Demand costs $1. RFTA fares vary depending on the route. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to the Glenwood Gondola.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in Glenwood Springs, consider walking to the Glenwood Gondola. From downtown, follow the signs towards the Two Rivers Plaza Road. The base of the gondola is located at 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road. Be aware that the walk may involve some inclines.

  • Driving

    From I-70, take exit 116 in Glenwood Springs. Turn north toward the stop light and move into the left-turn lane. Turn left at the stop light and travel a short distance along the hotels. Watch for the overhead gondola and the park's sign on the left-hand side of the road. Turn left on Devereux Road and take the next right into the parking area access road. Parking at the Glenwood Gondola base costs $5-$10, depending on the season. Free parking is available at Lot B, a short distance away; a free parking ticket is issued at the cashier window for exit. Limited paid event parking may be available at Centennial St. & Devereux Rd for $20.

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Discover more about Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers a unique blend of natural wonders and adrenaline-pumping thrills. Originally opened as the Fairy Caves in the late 1890s, the site was rediscovered and revitalized in 1999 by Steve and Jeanne Beckley, who transformed it into a multifaceted attraction. The park's history is rooted in the discovery of a cave system on Iron Mountain by Charles W. Darrow in the late 1800s. Darrow opened the Fairy Caves to the public in 1895, even installing electric lights in 1897, making it one of the first caves to do so. After being closed in 1917, the caves were reopened in 1999 by the Beckleys, who added the Iron Mountain Tramway (now the Glenwood Gondola) in 2003 to improve access. Today, visitors can explore the Glenwood Caverns and the Historic Fairy Caves, with guided tours showcasing stunning cave formations. Above ground, the park features a variety of thrill rides, including the Cliffhanger Roller Coaster, the highest elevation full-sized roller coaster in North America, and the Giant Canyon Swing. Family-friendly attractions include the Alpine Coaster and the Mine Wheel. The park's elevation, sitting at 7,100 feet, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park continues to evolve, offering seasonal events, dining options, and a unique mountaintop experience for all ages. In December 2023, the park was designated a National Natural Landmark, solidifying its significance as a natural and recreational destination.

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