Glenwood Springs Moves to 100 Percent Renewable Electricity

Starting June 1, 2019, the historic resort town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, will be powered by 100% renewable energy. The announcement was made at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, the mountaintop theme park overlooking Glenwood Springs, which becomes one of the first amusement parks in the country to be powered by 100% renewable energy.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado, joins an elite group June 1, 2019, as it becomes the second city in Colorado and the seventh in the U.S. to be powered by all renewable energy.

Energy buzz

“We are very excited to announce that Glenwood Springs will soon be operated on 100% renewable electricity, making us the second municipality in Colorado to do so. Many cities and towns across the country have set aggressive targets, and we are doing our part today—our future is now,” said Mayor Jonathan Godes.

Members of the community joined local dignitaries, director of the Colorado Tourism Office Cathy Ritter and officials from the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska (MEAN) for the signing of the contract at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. CLEER, Clean Energy Economy for the Region, which implements programs for the City, provided free LED lightbulbs for attendees.

This contract makes Glenwood Springs Electric 100% renewable electricity; MEAN is bringing the equivalent wind power onto its grid to provide for all of the electricity in Glenwood Springs. As other communities follow in Glenwood’s path, MEAN will increase the total renewables on the grid, benefiting all the members.

Clean energy makes a difference

Long a leader in sustainable energy, Glenwood Springs has been offering and promoting energy efficiency with residents and businesses by offering rebates since 2009. Glenwood Springs has been 35% renewable on the electric grid since 2013. According to MEAN, switching to 100% wind saves the environment 77,156 tons of CO2 emission that the City of Glenwood Springs would have “created” using MEAN fossil fuel plants to generate power.

Adventure Park guided by sustainable ideals

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, well-known for its cave tours and over-the-top extreme thrill rides, was one the first businesses in Glenwood Springs to take advantage of Garfield Clean Energy and City of Glenwood efficiency rebates and install LED lighting within the cave. In addition to cost effectiveness and sustainability, the LED bulbs put off less heat, which makes it easier to keep the 54 unique species residing in the cave alive.

The City’s switch to all renewable makes Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park one of the first amusement parks in the nation to use 100% renewable electricity, a move that makes owner Steve Beckley proud.

“Our business is centered on nature-based adventure, so protecting the environment and natural resources has been our primary goal since we gave our first cave tour in May 1999,” explained Steve Beckley, who owns Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park with his wife Jeanne. “We are really pleased to be one of the first theme parks in the U.S. to have all of its electricity provided from renewable sources. Sustainable tourism is an important issue these days, and this move is a huge step in the right direction for Glenwood Springs as a whole.”

Eco-friendly practices help protect Glenwood’s future

Glenwood Springs has been a wellness destination since the 1880s, with travelers from around the world visiting to soak in the healing benefits of its mineral hot springs. Prior to that, Nomadic Ute Indian tribes inhabited the area and frequently bathed and soaked in the hot mineral waters. Today, visitors also come to fish, raft and kayak the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers; hike, bike and ride the trails; camp and hunt in the White River National Forest; and ski, ride, snowshoe and snowmobile at Sunlight Mountain Resort. Providing clean energy to protect the area’s natural resources is a major accomplishment.

Angie Anderson, president and CEO of the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association, said, “We are thrilled that Glenwood Springs is on the cutting-edge utilizing 100 percent renewable energy. Our community has proven that clean energy is an important part of our local economy. This commitment to sustainability makes our community shine in a positive way.”

Learn more and plan your visit to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park today.

Top off your Adventure Park Visit with Special Events

In addition to thrill rides and caves tours, pile on fun and entertainment by planning your visit to coincide with one of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park’s upcoming special events.

Caves & Karst Day.  Though National Caves & Karst Day is officially June 6, we’re celebrating this special event on Saturday, June 8 to give everyone a chance to join us for a day of cave-centric fun.  Highlights include giving away free National Caves Association posters while supplies last, a hands-on, educational and interactive cave display in the shade building next to the Soaring Eagle Zip ride and a squeeze box where kids can test their caving skills. To make learning about caves and karst extra fun, we’ll be giving away Junior Cave Scientist booklets. Kay Cochran, our very own cave tour guide and coloring book creator, will also be available to sign her book “Cave Critters.” The first 20 youngsters who complete their cave science booklet will receive a complimentary signed “Cave Critters” book!

Two for Tuesdays. The BOGO goes big at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. On Tuesdays starting June 11 through August 6, after 4 p.m., guests get a buy-one-get-one special on Glenwood Gondola rides, draft beer for adults and slushie drinks for kids at the Lookout Grille, on homemade fudge at the General Store and on ice cream cones at the Snack Shack! Not only that, but local talent extraordinaire—Rodrigo—plays for mountaintop guests weekly Monday through Thursdays.

One of our favorite special events, the 2019 season kickoff concert takes place on Saturday, June 15 at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park—America’s only mountaintop theme park. The series opener features musical favorite the Missing Link Band and the acrobatic fire and dance show performed by Dance of the Sacred Fire. The series continues on Saturdays and some Sundays through Sept 21. Guests can ride the gondola for free with the donation of a canned food item for the Lift-Up community food pantry starting at 4 p.m. Shows run from 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday gondola-for-a-can begins at 2 p.m., with shows from 4 to 8 p.m.

June 29—The Missing Link Band

July 6—The Goodman Band

July 13—A Band Called Alexis

July 20—Poser

July 27—Emotional Rescue

Aug. 3—Whiskey Stomp

Aug. 10—Fifty50

Aug. 17—The Mixx

Aug. 18—BJ the DJ

Sept. 7—Johnny O Band

Sept 8—The Kings Loyal

Sept. 14—Painters Stage

Sept. 21—The Missing Link Band

Friday Afternoon Club. For a smaller, more intimate entertainment setting at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park for special events, meet at the Lookout Grille for the best end-of-the-workweek music, delicious food, and drink specials, from 5 to 8:30 p.m., Friday, June 14 to Aug. 9.

June 14—Chasing Avalon

June 21—Gerry Goodman

June 28—Suzzanne Paris

July 5—The Leonard Curry Band

July 12—Charley Wagner

July 19—Natalie & Lizzy

July 26—Frank Martin

Aug. 2 —Guilty Pleasure

Aug. 9—Feeding Giants

Strawberry Days

This annual event is a Glenwood Springs tradition and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is proud to be an event sponsor. This year marks the122nd Annual Strawberry Days festival which takes place June 21-23 at Sayre (Strawberry) Park in Glenwood Springs. The event features an arts and crafts fair; food booths; live music and entertainment and a FamilyFest area with interactive, entertaining and creative experiences for the whole family.  The traditional parade down Grand Avenue Saturday morning is followed by free strawberries and ice cream at Sayre Park. Enjoy all the festival activities and remember to save some time for a visit to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park—America’s only mountaintop theme park.

Learn more about Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and make your summer plans to visit today!

Summer’s Here! It’s Time to Buy Your Annual Thrill Pass

Ride the Glenwood Canyon Flyer
Ride the Glenwood Canyon Flyer

For Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park annual pass holders, the season ahead is filled with thrilling rides, cave tours and a full schedule of musical entertainment! Even though passes are valid for one year, make the most of your annual pass by purchasing now—in time to make the most of upcoming summer fun!

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is getting ready to kick high-flying fun up a notch for summer. We recently launched our new Glenwood Gondola, celebrated the 20th anniversary of opening the caves to tours, hosted a Prince tribute band and we’re just getting started! In addition to the all the thrill rides and attractions you’ve come to love, we’ve got a big summer planned. Music on the Mountain kicks off on Saturday, June 15; Friday Afternoon Club makes its weekly reappearance beginning on June 14. Scattered throughout the year are special events that include Cave & Karst Day on June 9, Octoberfest in the fall and later in the year—Winter on the Mountain. An Annual Thrill Pass in your pocket means you never have to pass up the fun!

Unlimited Admission on Thrill Rides & Attractions

With your 2019 Annual Thrill Pass, you can hop aboard the new Glenwood Gondola and all your favorite Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park thrill rides as often as you like including the Giant Canyon Swing, the Alpine Coaster, the Cliffhanger Roller Coaster, the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride and the Canyon Flyer. Your thrill pass also gains you admission to both cave tours and attractions like the park’s 4-D movies and laser tag arena.

No Black-out Dates

Your pass is valid anytime the park is open. Come for special events like the Friday Afternoon Club, Music on the Mountain, Harmony Sisters sing-along and the new Two for Tuesdays with buy-one-get-one specials after 4 p.m. It doesn’t matter if it happens to be spring break, the Christmas holiday or the height of summer, your Annual Thrill Pass gives you access to entertainment and adventures that span the seasons.

An Outstanding Value

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park Annual Thrill Pass is a crazy good deal. Consider that a one-time Funday Pass costs $58 for adults (13 and older) and $53 for children (3-12), while a Thrill Pass runs $128 and $116 respectively. In just a little over two visits, your pass pays for itself!

Bonus Discounts

Your Annual Thrill Pass also entitles you to discounts at any of the park’s restaurants and in the gift shop. Save ten percent on whatever tickles your taste buds. It could be a meal at the Lookout Grille, a slice of pizza at the Snack Shack or sweet treats at the Popcorn Wagon. Take home souvenirs or shop for gifts at the General Store, all while trimming a cool ten percent off the top just by showing your Thrill Pass.

A Gondola-only Option

If you’d prefer to skip the rides and just come to the park to enjoy the views, the music, or a meal out, consider purchasing the Glenwood Gondola Annual Pass. Like the Annual Thrill Pass, it’s valid for one year, and at just $38, it’s a bargain.

Give the Most Thrilling Gift

An Annual Thrill Pass makes a great gift for just about anyone in your life. Give a gift of smiles, wonder and lasting memories to all the special people in your life. An Annual Thrill Pass is just the thing for kids on summer break; it makes an ideal present for high school and college graduates; and is also perfect for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.

Purchase Your Thrill Pass Today

Annual Thrill Passes are just $128 for adults (13 and older) and $116 for children (3 – 12) and are available for purchase at www.glenwoodcaverns or by calling 970-945-4228. If you already have a Glenwood Gondola Local’s Pass, you can upgrade to an Annual Thrill Pass and the cost of your Local’s Pass will be pro-rated and deducted from the cost of your Annual Thrill Pass.

Party Like it’s 1999 at Park 20th Anniversary Party

Glenwood Caverns gave its first cave tour in May 1999, more than 82 years after the Fairy Caves closed to the public during World War I. The mountaintop Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is throwing a Party Like it’s 1999 celebration on Saturday, May 18, 2019. 

A Dream Realized

Twenty years ago, Steve and Jeanne Beckley were putting the final touches on the substantial improvement projects that made it possible to open the Glenwood Caverns and the Historic Fairy Caves to the public for the first time in 82 years. They’d spent the previous months working with volunteers to grade and gravel a road to the cave entrance, clear debris that had collected for decades, rewire and install lighting, carve a new tunnel into the mountain and install two airtight doors to form an airlock that protects the temperature and humidity inside the cave. Their first tour was during Memorial Weekend in 1999, the realization of dream 18 years in the making.

A Look Back at Glenwood Caverns’ Beginnings

Steve Beckley, a petroleum engineer and graduate of the Colorado School of Mines, read about the Fairy Caves in 1982 in an out-of-print book about Colorado caves. He wrote to Pete Prebble, the owner at that time, and expressed his interest in visiting the closed cave for 11 years before he and then-girlfriend Jeanne were allowed in. It was such a remarkable experience that they spent the next six years persuading him to lease the property and then, after quitting their jobs in Denver and moving to Glenwood Springs with their newborn son, spent a year preparing to open.

“I remember telling Jeanne at the time that we’d give cave tours during the summer and then relax, ski and play the rest of the year,” Steve Beckley, who co-owns Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park with his wife Jeanne, explains. “Well, that’s not exactly how it went. Jeanne knows ‘I have an idea’ is probably my favorite phrase and that I say it a lot.”

Glenwood Caverns Becomes America’s Only Mountain-top Theme Park

More than 33,000 people toured the caved in five months that year. The company had to close during the rest of the year due to the winding road that was impassible in the winter and spring months. Steve began working on a new transportation system to keep the tours open year-round; in 2003 the Iron Mountain Tramway opened, and the company changed its name to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Since then, it has grown to include thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, live music, shopping, dining and, as of this year, the new high-speed Glenwood Gondola that can transport 1,000 people per hour up and down the mountain.

“We never imagined that 20 years later that we’d be operating the only mountaintop theme park in America, with roller coasters and a giant swing and concerts under the stars,” co-owner Jeanne Beckley said. “It’s been such an incredible process. Our boys have grown up here, and the park has become this special place where families can have fun, learn about nature, experience this spectacular cave and create memories together.”

Premier Prince Tribute Band to Highlight 20th Anniversary Celebration

To celebrate this 20th anniversary, the Adventure Park is throwing a Party Like It’s 1999 celebration on Saturday, May 18, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Paizley Park, a costumed and choreographed Prince tribute act, will rock the stage from 7 – 9 p.m. The audience will fall under the purple spell of Phillip Lamar Jordan as Prince during this high-energy show featuring the music of Prince, Vanity 6, Apollonia 6, Sheila E. and more. Guests who wear purple to the event can get a free drink at the Lookout Grille, a purple Icee for kids and a special “Purple Rain” adult beverage. The Airi Photo Booth will be set up to the right of the stage with props to help guests create free souvenir photos to take home as well.

Learn About Spelunking and Formations in Cave Simulator

CaveSim, a crawl-through electronic cave simulator with 60 feet of passage to explore, will be at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s decorated with artful reproductions of real cave formations. Each formation is electronically sensed to count the number of times it gets hit by cavers. This information is saved in a central computer, and cavers can compare their scores and times.

Education was a primary goal of the Beckleys when they first opened the cave in 1999. According to Steve, “We were, and still are, so overwhelmed by the beauty of this world beneath our feet that we wanted to share it with as many people as possible while still protecting the natural resource. Teaching our guests about the history and geology of the area, the life forms within the cave and the importance of conservation has always been at the forefront of our business.”

Since that first tour, more than a million people have toured Glenwood Caverns and the Historic Fairy Caves. The park offers affordable field trips for thousands of students every year, providing the opportunity to share the science and experience of exploring to even more young people, many of whom might not have the chance to do so otherwise.

Steve and Jeanne Beckley at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Event Admission Details

Regular admission rates apply for this event. A ride on the Glenwood Gondola costs $19 for adults and $14 for kids 3 to 12. The Gondola/Cave Tour combination is $32 for adults and $27 for kids. An inclusive Funday Pass is $58 for adults, $53 for kids, and includes the gondola ride, two walking cave tours and unlimited access to all rides. Annual Gondola and Thrill Pass holders can attend free. Those who have vouchers for the Locals’ Gondola Pass from earlier this year are encouraged to redeem them prior to this event, preferably on weekdays prior to 4:30 p.m.

Grand Opening of the Glenwood Gondola

Gondola Giving begins Nov. 19
Gondola Giving begins Nov. 19

There’s a new gondola in the Roaring Fork Valley, and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is ready to celebrate its completion. The Glenwood Gondola, which replaces the park’s former Iron Mountain Tramway, has been under construction since October 29, 2018. On Saturday, April 20, the mountaintop theme park in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is rolling out the red carpet to introduce its newest attraction.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony kicks off the festivities at 10 a.m. on April 20

Paying homage to the grand opening of the Iron Mountain Tramway in 2003, owners Steve and Jeanne Beckley have invited two of the people who played important roles in that ceremony to come back for repeat performances. KMTS news and sports director Ron Milhorn will once again be the emcee for the event. Melissa Miller Matis will sing the same two songs she sang in 2003, when she was 15, “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “A Moment Like This.”

After the Beckleys take the first ride, the Glenwood Gondola opens for the public. The park saved tram cabin number one, which is located at the base for photo opportunities. Cake will be served on the stage in the plaza area beginning at 11 a.m. Silk’s Saloon Olde Tyme Photos will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as well.

“Everyone at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is really looking forward to the grand opening,” park general manager Nancy Heard explained. “Even though the park has been open for a few weeks with 17 gondola cabins, this is really the big kick-off for us. We have a lot of great things planned for this summer, so this is just the first of many fun events coming up, including our 20th anniversary celebration on May 18 and 15 Music on the Mountain concerts through the summer.”

Giving thanks to a supportive community

To thank the community for its patience while the park was closed, free annual gondola passes were offered to residents from Basalt to Glenwood and from Eagle to Parachute. More than 17,000 people signed up, a much larger number than anticipated.

Heard added, “Wow, the response was just incredible! We had to make a special order of the plastic cards used for the passes to accommodate so many people. We continue to be humbled by the loyalty and enthusiastic support of our community.”

At $38 per annual gondola pass, that’s a $650,000 goodwill gesture to encourage locals to come up and see what’s new and to bring back those who may have stopped attending the Music on the Mountain concerts because of the lines to get up and down the mountain.

The Glenwood Gondola improves the park experience for visitors

With the increased capacity of the Glenwood Gondola, that should no longer be an issue. In the past, the majority of customer complaints were related to getting up and down the mountain. The new gondola is designed to be much more customer-friendly. It features 44 detachable cabins that move continuously, so the ride is faster and smoother than the former Iron Mountain Tramway. It’s also less susceptible to weather-related closures.

“When you combine the gondola, the capital improvements made throughout the park and compensation to keep our year-round, full-time employees on the payroll during the closure, this multi-million-dollar investment in the park is the largest since its inception,” Steve Beckley said. “Jeanne and I are really pleased with the dedication our managers and staff members have shown to improving our customer experience. We can’t wait to hear what our guests have to say.”

The season ahead at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

The park’s year-round attractions are open—the Alpine Coaster, both walking cave tours, the laser tag arena and 4D Motion Theater. An inclusive Funday Pass costs $47 for adults and $42 for kids 3 to 13 until May 10, when all attractions will be open. A ride on the Glenwood Gondola is $19 for adults and $14 for kids, and the Gondola/Cave Tour combo is $32 for adults and $27 for kids. Annual Gondola Pass Holders can upgrade to a Funday Pass for $28 or to an Annual Thrill Pass for $90 per adult and $78 per child.

The Lookout Grille is open with a variety of new options on the menu, including a line of Panini Sandwiches and more vegetarian choices. The General Store gift shop is open and also has a lot of new items, including locally made cave-themed chocolates, handmade artisan soaps and lotions, and fresh designs on t-shirts and hoodies, with more on the way.

Starting Thursday, April 11, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Longer hours for summer will begin in late May. More information about the park can be found at GlenwoodCaverns.com and on Facebook.

Top Trend:Theme Park Weddings

For a fairytale wedding, a head start on the ups and downs of life or a hope of living happily ever after, some couples choose amusement parks for their destination nuptials with the promise of fun for family and friends.

Spectacular Settings

Many parks are already set up to host group events, and some promote the added value of private marriage ceremonies and receptions. Disney offers an elaborate set of services, including professional and online planning, with options for travel to Florida, California, Hawaii, or an ocean cruise far from the roller coaster of life. Or you can tie the knot in the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel that has three ballrooms, a gazebo and event planners on staff. Couples get use of a reception room, a wedding cake and a champagne toast.

Outstanding Service

Some Six Flags locations highlight their service. Six Flags St. Louis hosts ceremonies and receptions for groups of at least one hundred. Six Flags Great Escape offers its Mohican Lodge for a country-style banquet hall that holds up to 275 people as well as a courtyard for outdoor ceremonies. The happy couple gets a free bridal suite for the night.

A Special Day to Remember Forever

At Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, couples looking for a fresh, casual event can wed in a beautiful mountaintop setting on our covered restaurant patio or viewing deck or find deep commitment in the caves. Caverns wedding packages include the tram and meal and, if desired, upgrades to the attractions.

Shop Your Way to the Top of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park!

You can get a free tram ride to visit the park by supporting Glenwood Springs businesses during the Grand Avenue Bridge detour! Simply bring in a receipt from any merchant located downtown between Cooper and Colorado, from 6th to 10th streets, or in the Glenwood Meadows.  The value of the receipt must be at least $16 for one FREE round-trip tram ride to the Adventure Park.  A $32 receipt is good for two tram rides, $48 for three tram rides and $64 for a maximum of four tram rides.

There’s a lot going on at the Park this fall that’s included with that tram ride!

Octoberfest is now in progress and continues through Oct. 29, with daily activities such as a pumpkin patch and panoramic, mountaintop views of the fall colors. On Saturdays, tractor-pulled hayrides, face painting, pumpkin decorating and family-friendly games are included as well. The pumpkins may be purchased for just $3 each. German oompah band Alpine Echo will entertain guests Sat., Oct. 14, and Sat., Oct. 21, from noon to 4 p.m., with crowd-pleasing tunes like the chicken dance, polkas, waltzes, Bavarian pub songs and “Edelweiss,” everyone’s favorite from the “Sound of Music.”

Winter on the Mountain, with its display of a half million lights, a giant Christmas tree with a lightshow that’s choreographed to music and firepits for warming up, begins Fri., Nov. 10. Santa Claus will make a guest appearance at the kick-off party on Sat., Nov. 18. The winter celebration continues through Feb. 25, 2018.

Shop, dine or play in town, then enjoy a free tram ride to America’s only mountaintop theme park. Receipts must be dated between Oct. 6 and the day that the bridge reopens. Passes must be redeemed by Dec. 17, 2017.

Turkey Tram-a-Ganza and Winter on the Mountain

Looking for something fun to do next weekend? Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park has you covered! We’ve got a lot coming up with both the third annual Turkey Tram-a-Ganza and the kickoff of Winter on the Mountain happening on Saturday, Nov. 19. Join us in Glenwood Springs, Colorado for all the festivities!

The Turkey Tram-a-Ganza event, a benefit for LIFT-UP’s local food pantries, collects Thanksgiving food items for area families in need. Drop off a turkey at the tram base and receive up to four free tram passes! By donating a turkey, you’ll also be entered into a drawing for an Annual Thrill Pass or two day passes to the Iron Mountain Hot Springs (four winners will be selected). Guests can also donate cans of food or other non-perishable items and receive one free tram pass per person.

Bring a turkey to the base of the tram and get up to four free tram rides to the top!

Alpine Coaster at Winter on the Mountain #getuphere

The Alpine Coaster is lit up at night during Winter on the Mountain!

KSNO’s Jim Williams will broadcast live from the Iron Mountain Tramway during the Turkey Tram-a-Ganza, which runs from noon until 4 p.m.

The free tram rides are valid for Saturday Nov. 19 only, and can be used to attend the kick-off party for Winter on the Mountain, which starts at 5 p.m. It will be a festive event to start the winter season! With the park covered in twinkling lights (including lighted rides and caves), a giant musical Christmas tree lighting at 7 p.m., live music and a visit from Santa Claus, Winter on the Mountain is dazzling fun for the whole family.

By donating a turkey, you’ll be eligible to receive a discounted Winter Funday Pass. For just $25, you can enjoy both walking cave tours and unlimited access to the Alpine Coaster, Soaring Eagle Zip Ride, laser tag arena and 4D Motion Theater.

For more information, visit our Park Info page. We hope to see you at the Park on Saturday, Nov. 19!

Two More Weeks of Mountain Fall Festival!

Have you made it up to the Mountain Fall Festival? If not, no worries! There’s plenty of time to head up Iron Mountain to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, where autumn fun awaits!
The park is still alive with fall colors, and there are lots of great photo opportunities all over the park. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy your fall day.

Every day of the week, we have autumn decorations, a pumpkin patch, and Oktoberfest food and drink specials, including brats & kraut, seasonal beer and a Bloody Mary bar. We’ve also got spiked cider, hot chocolate and other cozy fall drinks. On Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., we ramp up the festivities with hayrides, kids games (with prizes!), face painting and pumpkin decorating. Kids can also participate in a sticker scavenger hunt! Watch our Fall Festival video to see what the festival is all about.

As always, you can enjoy our thrill rides and attractions. Get a spectacular view of the valley on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line and the Glenwood Canyon Flyer, or watch your little one’s face light up on the Wild West Express kid’s coaster. Zoom down through beautiful fall foliage on the Alpine Coaster, and then experience the magic and wonder waiting underground on one of our Cave Tours. Buy a Funday Pass for a whole day of fun at a great value.

Saturday, October 22 brings the band Alpine Echo up to the mountaintop, where they will play Octoberfest tunes all day long. Founding member Gerhard Rill is originally from Bavaria, Germany. He came to Colorado and started making music, and soon partnered with Bill Rill (also from Bavaria) and John Pataky (from Hungary). Together, the trio formed Alpine Echo. Joe Pologar of Leadville, Colorado later came on board to round out the band’s sound. The foursome performs festive, lively tunes that are a treat for the ears!

To celebrate the band, we’re bringing back Can-for-a-Tram: On October 22, bring at least one can of food to donate for a free tram ride to the top. Can-for-a-Tram benefits Lift-Up, a non-proft organization that provides humanitarian aid to struggling families and individuals in our community.

Fall-tree-252x300
Mardi Gras at Glenwood Caverns is a family friendly event

For more information, visit the Fall Festival page. The festival runs until October 30, and there are still two Saturdays left. We hope to see you soon!

Race for the kids!

Looking for something fun to do on the weekend, that also happens to be for a great cause? Look no further! Youth Zone Ascent and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park are partnering to host the First Annual 5K Race on Saturday, October 8. Participants are invited to run, hike, bike or segway from Two Rivers Park up to Glenwood Caverns, where they can enjoy a full day of fun. Of course, other modes of transport are also welcome. For example, if any children have one of the best selling stunt scooters, they are more than welcome to participate in this race too. As this race is in support of Youth Zone Ascent, everyone is welcome to join in, no matter how they want to take part. Participators are welcome to come and have fun for a great deal with a 50% off Funday Pass!

If you are biking or riding a Segway, meet at Two Rivers at 9:00 am. If you are hiking or running, the start time is 9:30 am. You can also take the Scenic Tram if you feel like a more relaxed ride up; it’s all just about having fun! The entry fee is $25 if you register online before the race or $30 on race day. All proceeds go to supporting Youth Zone Ascent. You’ll get a t-shirt and a breakfast burrito to start your day off right as part of your entry fee.

YouthZone Ascent has been around since the 1970s and is an important organization in our community. They are focused on providing services to youths ages 6 to 18 years, and provide services to more than 1,000 young people a year. Originally founded by a group of parents concerned about drug use among youths, YouthZone Ascent provides recreational activities as well as information and education about the dangers of drug use, as well as teaching them about drug testing, different test types such as a urine test and more. They focus on three areas of assistance: prevention, intervention, and volunteerism. YouthZone Ascent is committed to the health and well-being of our young people, and the 5K race is a great way to support them while also getting some exercise and getting some thrills at the park!

For more information or to register, visit Youth Zone Ascent. For information on all cave tours, rides and attractions available with the Funday Pass, head to our homepage. We hope to see you on Saturday for 5K and a day worth of good times for a good cause!