A Celebration of community, wellness and legacy at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Twice each year, something special happens at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.
“Bring a Friend” isn’t just a perk, it’s a tradition rooted in community, connection and gratitude. On April 23 and 25, 2026, in appreciation of our annual pool pass holders and Athletic Club members, they are invited to share the resort experience by bringing a guest to soak for free.
But this event goes deeper than a day at the pool.
Honoring the Legacy Behind the Waters
This spring, Bring a Friend also pays tribute to a defining moment in Glenwood’s history. On May 30, 1956, 22 local business leaders came together to purchase Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, ensuring it would remain a cornerstone of the community for generations to come.
At the time, the resort, which originally opened with grand celebration on July 4, 1888, was already a beloved destination. But its future was uncertain. That changed when the following visionaries stepped in, combining resources, belief and local pride to protect what many considered the heart of Glenwood Springs.
Visionaries & Community Leaders
The following men pooled their resources and expertise so that future generations could continue to cherish Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.
- Frank Kistler – Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
- M. C. “Mike” Bosco – Hotel Denver
- Henry Bosco – Hotel Denver
- J. J. Huntley – Troy Laundry
- Jess E. Weaver – Glenwood Creamery
- C. B. (Pat) Bell – Rocky Mountain Savings & Loan
- Dr. C. W. McFadden – Chiropractor
- Cran B. Rader Sr. – Silver Spruce Motel
- Jerry Fitch – KGLN Radio
- Tom Dever – Dever Jewelry
- P. J. Gallagher – Gallagher’s Restaurant
- Allyn Cole – Attorney
- Charles Stewart – Attorney
- Willis Parkison – Attorney
- Wesley Tenbrook – Tenbrook Garage
- Jack Mitchell – Glenwood Creamery
- Enoch Dahl – Kenrose Motel
- Francis Christiansen – Buffalo Valley Restaurant
- Ed Lake – Lake Texaco
- J. R. “Jack” Farnum – Farnum Mortuary
- W. H. “Bill” Farnum Jr. – Farnum Mortuary
- Robert McKee – Friend of Frank Kistler
Frank Kistler, who retained a share in the business, said it best:
“The sale of this beautiful resort property to the business leaders of Glenwood Springs will assure continuation of the traditions of hospitality … which has made this naturally heated pool one of the great tourist attractions of the United States.”
Today, their legacy lives on through their families who continue to own and invest in the resort—honoring the past while thoughtfully building for the future.
Built on Vision, Sustained by Community
The original group represented a wide cross-section of Glenwood Springs from hospitality and healthcare to law, dining and small business. Their shared belief was simple: this place mattered. That same spirit continues today.
Since 2019, a multi-year investment plan has introduced meaningful upgrades and experiences across the property. Guests now enjoy highlights like the Sopris Splash Zone, the reimagined Therapy Pool, refreshed changing facilities, renovation of all 107 guest rooms and suites at the Lodge at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, the addition of Yampah Mineral Baths, and the debut of Hotel 1888 inside the historic Stone Bath House.
These enhancements ensure the resort remains not only relevant but exceptional, all while still honoring its heritage as a cornerstone of the 800-mile Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop.
Bring a Friend: What to Know
Bring a Friend Days are designed to be easy, flexible, and welcoming and are an expression of appreciation for the resort’s annual pool pass holders and Athletic Club members. On April 23 and 25:
- Active annual pool pass holders and Athletic Club members may bring one guest each day
- No reservations are required
- Guests can enjoy full access from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Entry is through the main pool lobby for members, pass holders and their guests
Whether it’s a first visit or a return trip for guests, it’s a chance to share something meaningful: relaxation and the simple joy of soaking together.
A Simple Way to Invest in Your Well-Being
There’s a reason people come back again and again. The mineral-rich waters from the on-site Yampah Source Spring—a name used by the Ute tribe to mean “Big Medicine”—contain 15 naturally occurring minerals long associated with relaxation and wellness. Whether you’re swimming laps in the Grand Pool, unwinding in the Therapy Pool, or exploring hot-and-cold contrast therapy in the Yampah Mineral Baths, each visit offers a reset for both body and mind.
And for those who make it part of their routine, the value becomes clear.
An annual pool pass is ideal for guests planning regular visits throughout the year, offering flexibility across seasons and pass types. Athletic Club memberships go even further, combining unlimited pool access with a full-service fitness experience, including group classes, modern equipment, racquetball/handball courts, and dedicated wellness spaces including a sauna, steam room and hot tub.
Both options include access to Bring a Friend Days twice a year, making it easy to share the experience with someone else.
Celebrate the Past and Salute the Present.
Bring a Friend Days are about more than access, they’re about appreciation for the people who have preserved and improved this important Glenwood Springs and Colorado attraction. They also are a nod to the valued pool pass holders and athletic club members who continue to embrace the resort that is 138 years strong.
Make plans to join Glenwood Hot Springs Resort on April 23 and 25. Bring a friend or family member along for the experience because places like this are meant to be shared and some traditions are worth continuing.
