Located on the banks of the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs, the Iron Mountain Hot Spring is an international sanctuary of geothermal healing. It features 16 soaking pools filled with natural mineral water, a freshwater family pool, and a jetted spa offering a therapeutic experience, attracting generations of wellness seekers. But a natural mineral hot spring is not just any pool; it requires special preparation, unlike a conventional chlorinated hotel pool.
The team of Spur Experiences has put together a complete packing list to make your visit as smooth and refreshing as possible. Here is everything you should bring to make the most of the Iron Mountain Hot Spring, create the best memories, and enjoy your experience to the fullest.
- The Swimwear Strategy (Color Matters)!
The Iron Mountain waters are known to be highly concentrated in 14 other minerals, including iron, sulfate, chloride, and calcium. Although these minerals are amazing for relieving tired-muscle pain and cleansing the skin, they can be very irritating on sensitive skin.
- The Ironic Factor: Due to the presence of iron (as the name implies), water can, over time, leave a very slight reddish-brown tint on light-colored fabrics.
- Pro Tip: It is highly advisable to wear dark-colored swimwear (black, navy, deep charcoal). Avoid your favorite white bikini or light-blue swim trunks. Also, avoid suits with too many metal fixings, since the minerals can occasionally cause tarnishing.
- Post-Soak Care: Immediately after your soak, go to the locker room showers and thoroughly rinse your suit in fresh water to take off any remaining mineral deposits.
- Hydration: Your Non-Negotiable Companion.
You can lose track of the fact that, even when you are soaking in water at 100F to 108F, your body is still striving to maintain a normal temperature. You will be sweating considerably, although you may not sense it in the water. The most frequent cause of the “post-soak slump” or headache is dehydration.
Carry a non-glass and reusable water bottle. The detoxification process involves hydration, which will help you spend more time in the water without feeling lightheaded. The Sopris Café on-site is good, but it serves delicious beverages and smoothies; it is better to have your own bottle of water at your poolside lounge chair. Remark: Glass should not be allowed on the pool deck to protect the safety of all guests. If a glass bottle is broken near a pool, the pool should be emptied and cleaned.
- Footwear for the “Pool Hopping” Experience
The diversity of the temperatures in the 16 pools is one of the most outstanding characteristics of Iron Mountain Hot Spring. You will have to be a pool hopper to find the temperature that suits you best.
- Surface Safety: The walks separating the pools are well maintained, though during the summer they may get very hot in the Colorado sun, and during the winter they may be slippery or icy.
- The Answer: Pack a pair of waterproof slides or flip-flops. These keep your feet dry in the weather and keep the pool clean; they prevent grass, sand, or debris from sticking to your feet and carrying it into the pool.
- Take Care of Your Skin and Eyes
The elevation of Iron Mountain is about 5,700 feet. The UV rays from the sun are much stronger at this altitude than at sea level.
- Sunscreen: Although you may be here during winter (which is an incredible experience), the sun reflecting off the water and the snow around it can still cause excruciating burns. Apply a reef-safe, waterproof sunscreen.
- Eye Protection: The glare can be intense off the pools. Carry two pairs of polarized sunglasses to shield your eyes and to see the Lookout Mountain and the Colorado River.
- Post-Soak Moisturizer: The minerals are good; however, heat and salt may leave certain skin types feeling a little dry when you get out. Prepare a good body lotion or oil to use after your last shower.
- Managing the “Wet Gear” Transition
The last thing you desire after a day of happiness is a wet car seat or a wet gym bag. Although there are great swimsuit dryers (centrifugal spinners) in the locker rooms at Iron Mountain Hot Springs, your suit will still have some moisture.
- The Wet Bag: Carry a wet bag or silicone pouch with your swimsuits to keep them dry. This will keep the rest of your stuff dry and will not smell like a damp pool when on your luggage.
- What You Can Safely Leave at Home
To make your bag light, keep in mind that Iron Mountain is a luxury place that offers numerous necessities:
- Towels: Each guest will receive two fluffy towels upon arrival.
- Security: You do not require a padlock. The facility uses a state-of-the-art RFID wristband system for their lockers, which also acts as your “digital wallet” for the café.
- Toiletries: The shower stalls are well equipped with quality shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, hence there is no need to carry your own unless you have any medical needs.
Pro Timing Tip
To make the most of the relaxation, we advise bringing a book or a waterproof e-reader. The springs have a so-called Quiet Zone that is simply the pools being out of the main family area, the best place to switch off your phone and be back to yourself. Smart packing means that during your experience at Iron Mountain Hot Spring, there will be nothing more than the sound of the flowing river and the heat of the land.
​The whole preparation makes the experience perfect. With the comfortable swimwear, easy slip-on footwear, a reusable water bottle, and a few personal care items, you can focus less on planning and preparing for everything and more on soaking in the moment.
Whether you’re there to unwind, enjoy the scenic surroundings, or simply take a break from routine, being well-prepared ensures you make the most of every minute. Pack smart, travel light, and let the calming waters do the rest.
