Traveling through the Rocky Mountains offers breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and a rich tapestry of historical landmarks—but few places are as steeped in mystique and legend as the famed Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs. Nestled between snowcapped peaks and historic hot springs, this 19th-century resort hotel isn’t just a haven for luxury seekers and history buffs—it’s also one of Colorado’s most haunted destinations.
Whether you’re an amateur historian, a seasoned ghost hunter, or just someone intrigued by haunted hotels, Hotel Colorado offers a unique blend of elegance, eerie charm, and classic Western Americana. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the hotel’s fascinating past, uncover the legends that keep paranormal investigators coming back, and share why this historic hotel should be your next travel destination.
The History
From Gilded-Age Grandeur to Historic Landmark
Hotel Colorado was opened in 1893 by silver magnate Walter Devereux, who envisioned a lavish mountain resort that could rival the great hotels of Europe. Constructed at a cost of nearly $850,000 (a staggering figure at the time), the hotel featured Italian-style architecture, imported furnishings, large courtyards, and a grand fountain centerpiece measuring 14 feet tall—earning it the nickname “The Grand Dame of the Rockies.”
Situated next to the soothing Glenwood Hot Springs, Hotel Colorado quickly became a favorite recreation spot for the elite. Among its most famous guests were President Theodore Roosevelt, who used the hotel as a base for hunting expeditions, and President William Howard Taft. Roosevelt was so enamored with the location that he nicknamed it the “Little White House of the West.”
The War Years: A New Chapter
With the onset of World War II, the hotel’s luxurious corridors took a far grittier turn. Between 1943 and 1946, Hotel Colorado served as a U.S. Naval Hospital. Over 6,500 patients were treated here, and part of the hotel was renovated to include surgical wings and medical recovery rooms. Some say the spirits of those soldiers have never quite checked out—not to mention the nurses and doctors who worked tirelessly within its historic walls.
A Place for the Stars
Through the decades, the hotel’s guest list reads like a who’s who of American history and Hollywood royalty. Notables including Molly Brown, Doc Holliday, and even notorious gangster Al Capone are said to have walked its luxurious halls. During the early 20th century, many silent film stars visited while on vacation or filming in Colorado.
Preservation and Modern Appeal
In 1973, Hotel Colorado was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Though it’s undergone several renovations over the years to preserve its turn-of-the-century charm, the vibes walking through this iconic building remain as powerfully haunting as ever. The building’s brick facade, towering turrets, and opulent interiors still reflect the grand vision Devereux had more than a century ago.
The Haunt
A Hotel Steeped in Spirits
If you’re a ghost hunter—or just a fan of all things spooky—you’ll be delighted (and possibly terrified) to know that Hotel Colorado is considered one of the most haunted hotels in Colorado. Stories of paranormal activity here have persisted for decades, with both guests and staff reporting strange experiences that defy explanation.
The Lady in White
One of the most frequently spotted apparitions is the Lady in White. This ghostly figure is often seen gliding silently through the halls dressed in a flowing white gown. She’s usually reported near the grand staircase or peeking out from Room 325—one of the hotel’s most notorious rooms. Paranormal investigators speculate she may have been a former guest or a nurse who worked during the Naval Hospital years.
Disembodied Voices and Phantom Footsteps
Staff members often report hearing voices and footsteps in empty hallways. Doors open and close on their own, lights flicker without cause, and the hotel phones have been known to ring in the middle of the night—only to reveal silence on the other end. Several employees have shared chilling accounts of hearing their names whispered when no one else was around.
The Elevator Entity
Then there’s the phantom elevator-rider. Guests and employees have reported seeing the elevator operate by itself, doors opening on empty floors or suddenly being pulled to different levels even though no buttons were pressed. Some believe this spirit may be linked to a former bellhop—or possibly a curious soldier’s ghost who still patrols the building’s corridors.
The Smell of Roses
Another curious phenomenon involves the unexplained scent of roses that often fills certain parts of the hotel. One story involves a guest waking to find the strong fragrance surrounding her room with no source in sight. Historically, the rose scent has been associated with spiritual presence or even a sign of a benevolent spirit nearby.
Room 661 and Other Haunted Hotspots
If you’re feeling particularly brave, request to stay in Room 661. Guests have reported waking up during the night feeling watched, hearing tapping on walls, and even seeing ghostly figures hovering at the end of the bed. Temperature drops and cold spots are common, especially near Room 661 and the basement area—another locale believed to be active due to its time as a medical ward during the war.
Ghost Tours & Paranormal Investigations
The hotel occasionally offers guided ghost tours and welcomes paranormal investigators to explore the premises. Whether you book a private tour or go exploring on your own, be sure to bring your EMF reader and infrared camera—you never know what you might capture.
Conclusion: An Inviting Mystery for Every Ghost Hunter
Hotel Colorado isn’t just a destination for history enthusiasts—it’s a goldmine for paranormal adventurers. With its rich Gilded Age glamour, its wartime past, and centuries of ghostly lore echoing through its ornate halls, it creates the perfect backdrop for a supernatural experience.
If you’re a ghost hunter searching for your next investigation site, or simply someone intrigued by the spirit world, pack your bags and head to Glenwood Springs. Spend a night in a reportedly haunted room, sip wine by the roaring fireplace, and open your senses to the mysterious energies that permeate this historic gem.
So go on—book your stay at Hotel Colorado and discover for yourself what still lingers in this haunted Rocky Mountain haven. Whether you experience something unexplainable or just relish the rich history and Victorian charm, you’ll leave with a story to tell… and perhaps a few goosebumps along the way.