Glenwood Springs’s 10 Top Tours & Things To Do

Glenwood Springs is a town that practically screams adventure — but not just because of its famous hot springs. Here, you can find a wide variety of outdoor experiences that cater to all comfort levels and interests. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, the tranquility of a scenic float, or a family-friendly adventure, Glenwood Springs offers something for all.

We especially like the Glenwood Springs Half-Day Rafting Trip because it combines adrenaline with safety, offering a taste of class III-IV rapids on the Colorado River. It’s perfect for those wanting a fun, accessible splash of whitewater adventure without a full-day commitment.

If you prefer a more relaxed day on the water, the Scenic Canyon Half-Day Float is a great choice—especially if you’re traveling with children or simply want to enjoy the scenery without getting soaked. And for families with young children, the Glenwood Springs Short and Mild Rafting Trip offers a gentle ride that introduces kids to the river in a safe setting.

Glenwood Springs’ wide range of tours makes it easy to tailor your visit to your interests, fitness level, and time constraints.

Quick Overview of Glenwood Springs Tours & Things To Do

In this guide, we’ve gathered the best options to help you explore Glenwood Springs. If you’re after whitewater thrills, the Glenwood Springs Half-Day Rafting Trip and the Half Day Roaring Fork Rafting are top picks. For a more relaxed day, the Scenic Canyon Float offers scenic views without the splash.

Families and beginners will appreciate the gentle Glenwood Springs Short and Mild Rafting Trip, while adventure seekers can try the 2-Hour Side by Side ATV Tour or the Horseback Ride. For something truly different, consider the Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt, or for a competitive edge, the Sporting Clay Shooting. Now, let’s explore each activity in detail.

1. Glenwood Springs Half-Day Rafting Trip

At number 1 on our list, the Glenwood Springs Half-Day Rafting Trip offers a classic whitewater adventure along the Colorado River—specifically through Glenwood Canyon. This 3-hour guided tour takes you down Shoshone Rapids, challenging Class III-IV rapids like Baptism, Tuttle’s Tumble, and The Wall.

The trip is suitable for most thrill-seekers, with all necessary equipment (helmet, life jacket) provided, so you don’t need to worry about packing your own gear.

What makes this trip stand out is its balance of excitement and accessibility. Many reviews highlight how helpful and engaging the guides are—“Dillon was a great oarsman,” one reviewer notes—making the experience safe for beginners while still providing plenty of splash and adrenaline. The scenery in Glenwood Canyon is stunning, with towering cliffs and the Colorado River winding through.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a half-day adventure that’s fun but not overly intense. The $78 price is competitive for a guided experience, with the added benefit of being a highly-rated activity (5/5 from almost 600 reviews). The only potential drawback? It’s weather-dependent, and water levels can vary.

Bottom line: If you want a well-organized, exciting introduction to whitewater rafting, this trip hits the mark.

2. Scenic Canyon Half-Day Float

For those who prefer a more mellow way to enjoy Glenwood’s natural beauty, the Scenic Canyon Half-Day Float is a perfect choice. This 2-hour to 2.5-hour float takes you down the Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon, but instead of rapids, you’ll enjoy gentle Class I-II water.

The trip includes all necessary gear—life jackets, helmets, and optional wetsuits and river booties—making it accessible and comfortable.

What makes this tour appealing is its focus on scenery and relaxation, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a peaceful river experience. Family-friendly reviews mention the fun guide Jo, who made the trip enjoyable for all ages, and how the trip highlighted Colorado’s wildlife and geology. Plus, free hotel pickup is available if booked in advance.

During this float, you’ll have the chance to swim, jump in the water, or simply relax and take photos of the surrounding cliffs and lush scenery. The trip’s value lies in the combination of comfort, scenery, and flexibility, with departure times aligned to your schedule.

Bottom line: For a laid-back, scenic outing that’s suitable for all ages, this float is hard to beat.

3. Glenwood Springs Short and Mild Rafting Trip

If you’re traveling with young children or prefer a gentle introduction to river fun, the Glenwood Springs Short and Mild Rafting Trip is a wise pick.

This 2-hour trip takes you on the Colorado River through Class II rapids, with a guide providing helpful instruction and assistance along the way. It’s designed specifically for families with kids aged 2 to 5 years, offering a safe and enjoyable experience.

The reviews praise how well Randi, the guide, relates to kids and makes the trip both fun and educational. The scenery is equally impressive, with views of the Colorado River winding through the mountains. The tour provides all necessary gear, including life jackets and paddles, which makes it a hassle-free outing.

The trip’s short duration makes it easy to include in a busy itinerary, and its affordability ($70) provides good value for a family adventure. The calm rapids and friendly atmosphere make this suitable for first-time rafters and families with small children.

Bottom line: For a safe, gentle introduction to rafting with young kids, this tour offers great value and memorable family fun.

4. Half Day Roaring Fork Rafting

If you’re looking to combine scenic views with some splashy action, the Half Day Roaring Fork Rafting is a solid choice. This 2.5-hour trip takes you along the Crystal River from Carbondale to Glenwood Springs, navigating Class II and III rapids. It’s ideal for beginners and families, offering a manageable yet exciting whitewater experience.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to see Mount Sopris and the surrounding wildlife while floating. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and engaging manner, making it a safe choice for first-timers. The tour includes all necessary equipment and is limited to small groups, which means more individual attention.

Guests mention that, despite some lower water levels, the trip remains fun and lively. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a half-day adventure that balances scenery and excitement at a reasonable $69.

Bottom line: An engaging, scenic float with enough rapids to make it memorable, perfect for those new to whitewater rafting.

5. Half Day Shoshone Rafting in Glenwood Springs

The Half Day Shoshone Rafting offers another compelling option for whitewater enthusiasts. Covering a two-mile stretch of Class III-IV rapids, this trip is designed for those seeking a more intense experience without spending a full day on the river. The trip includes a guide who shares insights into the area’s geology and history, adding an educational layer to the adventure.

What makes this tour stand out is the variety of rapids and the opportunity to take a dip, depending on water levels and weather. Many reviews highlight the fantastic scenery, interesting geology, and the fun of navigating exciting rapids. It’s suited for beginners who want a bit of a challenge or families wanting a lively day on the river.

Costing $74, this tour offers excellent value for the variety of rapids and scenic highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who want a whitewater experience that’s more than just a float but still accessible.

Bottom line: If you’re after a whitewater adventure that’s lively but not overwhelming, this trip is a solid pick.

6. 2-Hours Glenwood Springs Short and Mild Family Raft Trip

The 2-Hour Short and Mild Family Raft Trip is tailored for families wanting to introduce kids to rafting in a safe, relaxed setting. Passing through Class II rapids, the trip offers enough excitement to keep everyone engaged while emphasizing scenic views and wildlife sightings.

Rated highly for its friendly guides like Shane and Maggie, the trip is praised for its educational and personable approach. The roughly 2-hour duration makes it easy to include in a full day of sightseeing. The trip includes all gear, and the reviews mention how even initially hesitant children end up loving it.

This trip costs $65, making it a reasonable option for families wanting to combine adventure with sightseeing. The calm waters and wildlife viewing opportunities make it ideal for first-time rafters of all ages.

Bottom line: A family-friendly, accessible rafting adventure that’s well-organized and fun.

7. 2-Hour Side by Side Adventure

If you’re craving a different kind of thrill, the 2-Hour Side by Side ATV Tour is a fantastic way to explore Glenwood Canyon from a new perspective. Starting with a short tutorial, you’ll set off on a private 6,000-acre ranch, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos of the river, mountains, and wildflowers.

What makes this experience memorable is the personalized small-group approach—your guide, Belle, or Erin, shares local insights and makes sure everyone is comfortable. The tour is suitable for first-timers and experienced riders alike, making it versatile. Tour reviews highlight the breathtaking views and the fun of riding through rugged terrain.

At $330 per group, it’s a good value considering the exclusivity and scenery. It’s perfect for adventure-loving couples or small groups seeking an adrenaline rush combined with scenic vistas.

Bottom line: An exciting off-road experience that’s perfect for those wanting to add some ATV action to their Glenwood trip.

8. 2 Hour Horseback Ride

For a taste of the Old West, the 2-Hour Horseback Ride offers a scenic trek through Colorado’s expansive mountain and meadow landscapes. Starting from the stables, the ride climbs to a natural mesa overlooking Glenwood Canyon, with chances to spot local wildlife like deer and waterfowl.

The tour is praised for its friendly guides and easy pace, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxing ride. The views of the Colorado River and surrounding mountains are spectacular, and the ride takes you through aspen groves and cedar forests.

At $155 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but the experience of riding within such pristine scenery is worth it. Many reviews mention how great the horses are and how the guide helps make the ride enjoyable for all levels.

Bottom line: A peaceful way to enjoy Colorado’s landscape on horseback, ideal for nature lovers and beginners.

9. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Glenwood Springs Hospitality Hunt

Looking for a fun, interactive activity that’s different from the usual tours? The Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt offers a digital adventure through Glenwood Springs. Using your smartphone, you’ll solve clues leading to landmarks like Everett Grocery and McCoy-Armory Building, learning about the town’s history along the way.

Rated at 3/5, this activity is best suited for groups wanting a casual, playful way to explore the town independently. It’s perfect for families, team-building, or even bachelor parties. It costs just $20, making it an affordable way to add some light-hearted fun to your visit.

You can start and pause the activity whenever you want, giving you control over your pace. While it may not appeal to everyone, it offers a unique, engaging perspective of Glenwood Springs’ streets and stories.

Bottom line: An inexpensive, customizable scavenger hunt that adds a modern twist to exploring the town.

10. 2 Hours Sporting Clay Shooting

For those interested in a competitive shooting experience, the Sporting Clay Shooting session provides a safe, fun challenge. Set at Bair Ranch in Glenwood Canyon, the activity caters to all skill levels, from novices to seasoned shooters. BB guns are available for kids, allowing the whole family to participate in a controlled environment.

While there’s no review data, the clear appeal is the challenge of hitting moving targets in a beautiful outdoor setting. The 2-hour session costs $185 per person, reflecting the equipment, instruction, and scenic backdrop. It’s best suited for adventure lovers wanting a unique, active experience that’s different from river trips or horseback rides.

Potential drawbacks include the cost and the need for prior booking, but for a memorable, hands-on activity, it’s well worth it.

Bottom line: A fun, challenging activity for shooting enthusiasts or groups seeking something outside their usual recreation.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and specific interests. If whitewater rafting excites you, the Glenwood Springs Half-Day Rafting Trip offers a fantastic balance of thrill and scenery, especially for newcomers. Families with small children will find the Short and Mild Rafting perfect, while adventure buffs can opt for the Side by Side ATV or horseback rides.

For those interested in a relaxing day exploring at their own pace, the Scenic Float provides scenic views without splashes. Budget travelers might enjoy the Scavenger Hunt, while thrill-seekers should look at the Whitewater Trips or the Shooting Experience.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months when outdoor activities fill up quickly.

Glenwood Springs offers a diverse array of tours and activities to match every traveler’s taste, from adrenaline-pumping whitewater adventures to peaceful riverside floats and scenic horseback rides.

Whether you’re here for a quick thrill or a relaxed exploration, you’ll find plenty to fill your days—and plenty of memories to take home. Pick your adventure, book ahead, and enjoy everything this Colorado town has to offer.