Eclectic Kim Review: Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Iron Mountain Hot Springs, with its natural mineral-rich hot springs and stunning views, offers a rejuvenating experience in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

I discovered Iron Mountain Hot Springs on a whim. This is when social media marketing actually worked. I opened my Instagram and was hit with a fun advertisement suggesting a visit to Glenwood Spring’s beautiful mineral spa area.

So, I booked some time to relax and meander – opting for the World Springs 21+ access. After all, I thought this was the best investment of my time before driving a few hours on I-70 to check in to The Dove Inn in Golden.

Introduction + Check In

I greatly appreciated the three hour time limit of Iron Mountain. It honestly was the perfect amount of time to enjoy the area – without wasting time. Arriving at 9am, finding Iron Mountain was easy. But, I will admit that – at first – I was a bit taken aback from the outside appearance of the facility.

A few of us gathered in the entryway before the Hot Springs officially opened. The whole look of the space was well appointed, modern rustic aesthetic.

Once the clock officially stuck 9am, we were all let in and awaited service in line. Once I got up to check in, it was a breeze. I showed my reservation and was given wrist band for World Springs access. I was instructed on where to get my two towels, where the changing / locker areas were and the layout of the mineral pools. It was comprehensive and excited me for what was to come.

Hot Springs + World Springs

After a quick change in the locker room, I was out and on my way to explore. I picked up my first towel from the towel station and stopped to look around and survey the area. I was pleasantly surprised. The grounds were beautiful, well maintained and luscious. I thought I would hear I-70 louder than I did. Nope. The freeway was mere background noise. I loved how close the mineral pools were to the Colorado River. It just felt – lovely.

I immediately made my way over to the World Springs gate, waived my wrist at the entrance gate, and entered. Here was the quiet sanctuary that I desired.

I appreciated the themed pools, fashioned from different mineral springs from around the world. Pools have different saline and mineral content – along with different temperatures. Everything felt extremely well maintained and curated. I adored my morning soaks in the different pools. Did I feel a difference? Honestly, a little. But really, it was incredible sitting in the pools, relaxing and gazing over the Colorado River.

Even more interesting? The small marmots that I noticed, grazing on the strip of grass between the pools and the river.

I enjoyed trying the different pools and avoiding other people’s annoying excessive small talk. I wasn’t there to play social hierarchy dynamics. I was there to relax. And that – I certainly did.

The springs feature a variety of pools at different temperatures, providing a relaxing retreat for visitors year-round. It was easy to see the pool temperature signs next to the pools.

Snacks at The Sandbar Cafe

At a certain point, I realized that I needed to eat. So, I ordered the BURNT END NACHOS (tortilla chips, queso, spicy barbecue pork burnt ends topped with pickled onion & jalapeno slaw). This was simple and pleasant.

As the river got more active with kayakers as the morning turned into the afternoon, I was greatly pleased. As my time expired at Iron Mountain Hot Springs, I appreciated the investment I made in myself to relax and enjoy the peace of the space.