Private tour hiking to Saint Mary’s Glacier, Red Rock and Hot Springs

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Colorado’s most iconic sights without the hassle of big group tours or crowded attractions, this private tour from Denver might just be what you need. It offers a nice balance of sightseeing, outdoor adventure, and relaxation — all tailored to your group. While it’s not a cheap experience, the personalized approach and the variety of stops make it worth considering, especially if you want a flexible, insider-guided day in the mountains.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized attention and storytelling from a local guide and the mix of active and relaxing experiences, from hiking to soaking in hot springs. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour requires a moderate level of physical activity — so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a super leisurely day or have mobility concerns. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and are comfortable with a 7-hour day on their feet, exploring outdoors.

Overall, if you’re someone who loves combining scenic drives, hiking, and soaking in thermal waters, and prefers a more exclusive experience, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially good for travelers who want to learn about Colorado’s landmarks from a knowledgeable guide while avoiding the crowds.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience tailored to your group’s pace and interests.
• Includes iconic stops like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Saint Mary’s Glacier, and Indian Hot Springs.
• Offers outdoor adventure with a hike to a glacier and mountain lake.
• Flexibility for winter activities such as sledding and skiing if visiting during colder months.
• Cultural and historical insights provided by your guide, making the experience richer.
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury SUV for up to six people.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to combine Colorado’s natural wonders with a touch of history and local flavor. It’s a full-day experience (around 7 hours), with pickup from Denver’s Union Station, making it easy to start your adventure without extra planning. The tour is private, so it’s just your group and your guide, which means you can customize the experience a bit if needed.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Your day begins with a drive to Morrison, where you’ll step into the world-famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. The reddish, towering stone formations are truly striking and have become a symbol of Colorado’s natural beauty. Your guide will share stories about the bands and events that have made this place legendary—think of it as a walk through music history carved into the landscape.

Expect about 45 minutes here, giving you enough time to soak in the views, snap some photos, and learn about the amphitheater’s role in the music scene. Admission to Red Rocks is included, so no extra fees to worry about.

Hiking to Saint Mary’s Glacier

Next, it’s time to head up into the mountains toward Idaho Springs, a charming old gold rush town. From there, you’ll start a hike to Saint Mary’s Glacier, a stunning, semi-permanent snowfield and lake. This part of the tour is the highlight for outdoor lovers — expect a manageable but invigorating walk that takes you into the mountains.

We love that the tour includes an actual hike with a visit to the glacier and lake area, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to breathe in mountain air. Depending on the season, winter visitors can enjoy sledding or skiing here — the guide usually brings a sled along if you’re interested in that. Once at the lake, you’ll have time to relax, take pictures, and perhaps explore some higher ground for more views.

The hike takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, and both the parking lot and the glacier admission are included. The scenery here is jaw-dropping, with icy blue waters contrasting against the rugged mountain backdrop.

Classic Colorado Lunch in Idaho Springs

After the hike, it’s time for a hearty, cowboy-style lunch in Idaho Springs. The guide recommends a cowboy lunch spot, but if you’re craving a signature Colorado pizza, Beau Jo’s deep-dish pizza is always a hit. This is a good chance to relax, share stories, and refuel before the next leg of your adventure.

The lunch stop is about an hour, and it’s a free choice — you can stick with the suggested place or explore other local eateries. This downtime helps balance out the outdoor activity with some simple indulgence.

Relaxing at Indian Hot Springs

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Indian Hot Springs, a popular spot for relaxing muscles and unwinding after a day of hiking. The hot springs offer a thermal pool and natural caves, which will give you a soothing end to your active day.

The hot springs experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, and admission is included in the tour price. Whether you prefer a gentle soak or exploring the caves, this segment adds a calming dimension to your mountain adventure.

The Logistics and Value

The tour is priced at $475 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider it covers private transportation in a luxury SUV, all the entry fees, and the personalized guiding, it starts to make sense. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and the flexibility of a private experience often justify the cost, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or couple.

The tour is scheduled for about 7 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to six people, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. This small size is perfect for those who prefer to avoid big crowds and want a guide who can tailor the day to your interests.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

While there aren’t any formal reviews yet, the description and structure of this private tour suggest a well-thought-out experience. The inclusion of local stories and the guide’s background as a history buff hints at a richer, more engaging visit than a typical sightseeing bus tour. The fact that the stops are carefully chosen — from the iconic Red Rocks to the serene glacier and the relaxing hot springs — shows a good understanding of what travelers want from a day in Colorado.

The flexibility for winter activities like sledding also adds an element of fun for those visiting during colder months. Plus, the tour’s private nature means you can customize or skip certain parts if needed, making it more accommodating for your group’s preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a blend of outdoor adventure with cultural and natural highlights, all delivered in a comfortable, private setting. It’s perfect if you enjoy hiking and scenic drives but also want a bit of time to relax in hot springs afterward.

Since the tour involves some walking and hiking, you’ll want to be comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s great for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone looking for a personalized day out in Colorado’s mountains.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a flexible, private way to see Colorado’s highlights, this tour offers a good mix of sights, stories, and relaxation. The drive up to Saint Mary’s Glacier and the stop at Red Rocks are truly memorable, and ending the day in soothing hot springs makes for a well-rounded adventure. While it’s not the cheapest option, the personalized service and varied activities make it a worthwhile splurge for those who want an exclusive, guided experience.

For anyone craving a day of mountain scenery, mountain history, and a little pampering afterward, it’s worth considering. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes and be ready for some outdoor walking — the views and stories make it all worthwhile.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
This tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity since it includes hiking and outdoor exploration. Kids who enjoy outdoor adventures and are okay with walking should be fine, but check with the provider if you have younger children.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, lunch, and relaxing in the hot springs.

What’s included in the price?
Entry fees to Red Rocks, Saint Mary’s Glacier, and Indian Hot Springs are covered. The tour also provides transportation in a luxury SUV and the guide’s storytelling.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss your preferences with your guide, including possibly changing the order or skipping some stops if you wish.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to enjoy the outdoor activities and hiking. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense. The guide suggests a cowboy lunch in Idaho Springs or deep-dish pizza at Beau Jo’s.

Do I need to be physically fit?
A moderate fitness level is recommended, as the tour involves hiking and walking on uneven terrain, especially at Saint Mary’s Glacier.

If you’re craving a personalized day out in Colorado with a mix of natural wonders, history, and relaxation, this private tour hits a lot of marks. It’s a flexible, intimate way to experience some of the best sights and activities around Denver — perfect if you’re up for a little adventure with plenty of comfort.