On a family vacation a few summers ago we found this adventure park which is located an hour outside of Vail at the top of a mountain in Glenwood Springs, Colorado called Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

After parking your vehicle you take the tram (gondola) up the mountain.  It’s about a 10 minute ride both ways.  The views are fantastic.

The park in itself isn’t very big compare to other parks, but I don’t think anything can top the Giant Canyon Swing ride.  I’m not sure what is more thrilling (or terrifying if that is the case), looking down 1300 feet below as you hang from your seat over side of the mountain, or when you swing the other way and reach the point where your body is still going up but the swing is heading down. It’s definitely a wild ride.  Scary and thrilling! Don’t miss it!

Some of the other Thrill Rides include:

The Cliffhanger Roller Coaster, at the very top of the mountain (and the highest elevation roller coaster in America at 7100 feet elevation), is pretty fast and fun.

Alpine Coaster  is by far one of the favorite rides with the kids because you’re in charge of your speed, through a hand brake.  Whipping along 3400 feet down until you’re at essentially ground level made this ride a winner.

Soaring Eagle Zip Line it’s another great ride if you enjoy zip lining down the mountain.

Apart from all the rides the park has to offer, they also have a two caverns 40 minute cave tours that you don’t want to miss.  Both caves (The Historic Fairy Cave and Kings Row), we just named one of the ‘Top 10 Caves in the Country’ by USA Today. The Kings Row caves requires walking down 150 feet and up a steep staircase, so not for the weak. However, even those of us who are in shape did okay, but with some minor heavy breathing. There were some incredible formations, stalactites and stalagmites to see.  The cool 52 degree temperature is exhilarating and comfortable.

The park is an experience you don’t want to miss!   Depending on the month you go, make sure you dress warm.  It can get much cooler at the top of the mountain, and in the caves.   We had hoodies and it helped.  The Funday pass is $45 (children 3-12) $50 (adults).  Make sure you check the website before you go for updates on the rides.   Some of the rides will close if the weather is bad or it’s too windy.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Rd, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 Local 970-945-4228 or Call 1-800-530-1635