The ski traffic was already backing up as I merged onto the highway going west. It was Friday morning of a three-day weekend, so I knew I needed to get on the road before bumper-to-bumper creeping set in. I live in the Rocky Mountains, not far from ski resorts, so those driving up from Denver must have left the metro area very early. Once I topped the Continental Divide, the skiers exiting for their favorite downhill runs here and there, it was a pleasant drive. I could settle in, listen to a book on cd and enjoy the scenery.
The impetus for this road trip was an invitation from a childhood friend. I had posted on Facebook that it was “0 degrees F” with a photo of a fire burning in my wood stove. My friend commented that it was 70 degrees at her place in southern California and her guest house was empty. An invitation I couldn’t resist! So, after a few texts to find dates that would work for both of us, I planned some stops along the way, packed a range of clothes from snow boots to shorts, and hit the road.

My first stop was a favorite one, often a destination in itself, Glenwood Springs. The route, although a major highway, winds through Glenwood Canyon, so narrow that the east and westbound lanes are stacked and tunnels slip through the dramatically steep red rock walls. The westbound lane is on the upper level so the view is unimpeded.

Glenwood Springs was a hangout for wild western figures, most notably Doc Holliday and Wild Bill Hickok, back in the frontier days. Doc Holliday died of tuberculosis in Glenwood Springs, in bed, ironically. He is buried high on a hillside overlooking the town; I hiked up there once. (Hickok was shot during a poker game in Deadwood, South Dakota. In his hand were aces and eights, now known as the dead man’s hand.) Vestiges of the western cowboy theme define the town.





It’s also known for frequent visitor Teddy Roosevelt, during annual hunting trips, who stayed at the elegant Hotel Colorado. The hotel staff made him the first “Teddy” bear, now iconic.
There’s a newer hot springs spot in town I have visited a few times. Tiny round pools of varying temperatures provide a little solitude or a place for an intimate conversation. Slipping into the warmth with the cool mountain air in my hair, looking out at the snow-covered hills… heavenly. An afternoon soak mellowed me out. I would be well-rested and ready for the first of my all-day drives the following morning.

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Now, that’s the Old West Ruth. Thanks for sharing. Allan
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Thanks for coming along, Allan!
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The quickest way to reach any destination is by plane, but taking a scenic road trip is far more memorable and exciting. This is especially true when embarking on a Colorado to California road trip. Can’t wait to read all about it 🙂 Aiva
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It’s been many years since I’ve done a road trip, and has been fun choosing the stops. Thank you for coming along, Aiva!
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Glenwood Springs may be unassuming, but it packs a lot of notable history! From Doc Holliday to Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, a lot of famous, historic characters have come and gone, all the while made their mark along the way. Definitely a noteworthy stop, and I hope the rest of your journey to southern California was a smooth one: welcome to my home state!
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Thank you, Rebecca! Enjoying the sun and relaxation in your beautiful state. Leaving California tomorrow to make some other stops during the week. It will take me weeks to catch up on the blog.
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It sounds like you had a great rod trip!
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Thank you, Christie! This was just day one. More to come…
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I’ve never actually stopped in Glenwood Springs despite driving through multiple times. It sounds like there is a lot of history there and many things to do. Perhaps later this year, once ski traffic dies down, I’ll check it out.
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It’s has been a favorite place to escape for a few nights for me for decades, Diana. Not too far, not too crowded. Look for Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
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There are few pleasures as delightful as a scenic road trip.
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Thanks for coming along, Jay.
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Glad to hear that the timing worked out well and that you’re able to take a road trip to your friend’s place in southern California. So far it looks like a scenic drive.
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This was just day one. I’ve had fun choosing some interesting stops along the way. Thanks!
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I love a road trip and this looks like a great stop with the hot springs to unwind in and those beautiful mountain views!
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Thanks, Sarah! Glenwood has always been one of my favorite stops.
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Glenwood Springs is one of our main destinations this summer. Can’t wait – we plan to soak in all the area’s hot springs (as well as hike and cycle).
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Yes! Iron Mountain Hot Springs should be on your list. Enjoy!
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As another blogger mentioned, there’s a wonderful bike route through the canyon. I’m sure that will be on your list!
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I’m glad to know about that – thank you!
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Love that wood burning stove! The moon is so perfect about the cliffs.
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Thanks, Kerry!
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Oh it’s beautiful, looks like a lovely road trip 🙂
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Thanks, Hannah! More to come…
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Oh what a wonderful road trip! I love all the Wild West history, so the Glenwood Springs stuff would be right up my street. Your mountain-moon shot that bookends this piece is a keeper.
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Thanks, Leighton! Glad you enjoyed the old west references. That mountain view never gets old.
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This sounds like a great road trip, and that you’re off to a good start.
Alison
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Thanks for your visit, Allison. More to come…
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Glenwood is one of those places with more to do than its size would suggest. Biking along I-70 is the best way to see the canyon (or maybe by train? Never done it). Hanging Lake is a beautiful hike. The cemetery is worth the climb up above the town, with several famous names buried there. And rafting on the river is a must. Despite all that, Glenwood has a really laid-back throw-back feel, which only adds to its appeal IMHO. Every time we pass through the canyon I am in awe of the engineering of the highway. I can’t imagine whatever less-convenient route you had to drive before I-70 made it all the way through the Rockies.
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I’m not a rafter these days, but I’ve biked and rode the train through the canyon more than once. I can see it’s a favorite of yours as well!
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