Attractions and Places To See in Garfield County - Top 20

Garfield County is rich in natural beauty. Don't miss the stunning Hanging Lake Trail, a National Natural Landmark known for its picturesque lake and waterfalls. You can also explore Rifle Falls, Colorado's only 80-foot triple waterfall, or hike to the impressive Rifle Arch, a natural sandstone formation. The vast White River National Forest and the scenic Glenwood Canyon also offer breathtaking views and numerous outdoor opportunities.

Yes, Garfield County boasts several beautiful waterfalls. Rifle Falls is a must-see, featuring a unique triple waterfall where you can even picnic nearby. Just above Hanging Lake, you'll find Spouting Rock Waterfall, which is notable because you can walk behind it. The Riparian Area in Rifle Falls State Park also offers charming cascades and waterways.

Garfield County is renowned for its geothermal hot springs, primarily located in Glenwood Springs. You can visit the historic Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, considered the world's largest mineral hot springs pool, or explore the unique Yampah Hot Springs Vapor Caves. Iron Mountain Hot Springs is another popular choice. A bit further south, near Carbondale, you'll find Avalanche Ranch and Penny Hot Springs for additional soaking opportunities.

History enthusiasts will find several interesting sites. The Pioneer Cemetery/Doc Holliday Grave in Glenwood Springs marks the resting place of the infamous Wild West figure. The historic Hotel Colorado, built in 1893, is a famous landmark that once hosted President Theodore Roosevelt. You can also learn about the region's past at the Glenwood Springs Hydroelectric Plant, one of the oldest in the U.S., or visit the Kewclaw Archaeological Site in Battlement Mesa, home to a well-preserved Archaic period structure.

Absolutely! Rifle Falls State Park is excellent for families, offering easy walks to the waterfalls and plenty of space for picnics. The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park provides cave exploration and amusement park rides. For a unique experience, visit the Sopris Alpaca Farm in Silt, where you can feed alpacas. The Carbondale Skatepark is also considered one of the best in the U.S. for active families.

Garfield County is an outdoor paradise. The White River National Forest offers extensive opportunities for camping, ATV riding, fishing, skiing, and rock climbing. The Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers are perfect for rafting, kayaking, and fly-fishing. You'll also find numerous biking trails, including the Rio Grande, Glenwood Canyon, and Crystal River Trails, and a wide array of hiking options for all skill levels.

Yes, Garfield County offers a variety of hiking trails. For challenging hikes, consider the Hanging Lake Trail or Devils Causeway. If you're looking for easier options, there are many trails suitable for families and beginners. You can find more details and routes in our guide to Easy hikes in Garfield County or explore general Hiking in Garfield County.

Yes, permits are required year-round for all visitors to Hanging Lake. This system is in place to manage visitor numbers and protect this sensitive National Natural Landmark. You can obtain permits and find more information on the official site: visitglenwood.com/hanginglake/.

Beyond the popular spots, Garfield County has some unique hidden gems. The Sopris Alpaca Farm in Silt offers a charming experience with alpacas. The Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area near De Beque is home to mustang herds descended from Spanish explorers. For history buffs, the Kewclaw Archaeological Site in Battlement Mesa contains a remarkably preserved Archaic period structure dating back to 1095 BCE.

Garfield County offers attractions year-round. Summer and early fall (June to October) are ideal for hiking, biking, and water activities, with pleasant temperatures. Late fall brings beautiful foliage. Winter (November to March) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding at Sunlight Mountain Resort or exploring the snow-covered landscapes. Spring (April to May) sees wildflowers blooming and rivers swelling, though some higher elevation trails may still be snow-covered.

While many natural trails in Garfield County can be rugged, some areas offer more accessible options. The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, a paved trail alongside the Colorado River, is suitable for walking, biking, or rollerblading. Many of the hot springs facilities also offer accessible features. It's always recommended to check specific attraction websites or call ahead for the most current accessibility information.

Garfield County is a fantastic destination for biking. The Rio Grande Trail is a popular 44-mile paved multi-use path connecting Aspen to Glenwood Springs. The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path offers a scenic ride alongside the Colorado River. Additionally, New Castle boasts 42 miles of mostly intermediate singletrack trails, and the Crystal River Bike Trail provides more options for cyclists.