Construction is expected to begin in January on a makeover that will add additional water features to the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.

Located at the west end of the resort, the attraction will replace water slides and a miniature golf course with a tube ride, miniature water slides and other features. The project is scheduled for completion in July.

“We are always seeking ways to elevate the guest experience,” said Kjell Mitchell, president and chief executive officer of the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. “This latest renovation will provide yet another opportunity for guests to have fun, smile and create lasting memories at the resort. By moving all kid-related activities to the west, our plan is to create delineated active and passive areas. As we develop future phases, the east end will specialize in an adult-oriented environment that appeals to relaxation and rejuvenation.”

What’s billed as an adventure river tube ride will offer the experience of floating down a mountain creek in Colorado, complete with landscaping, cascading tiers and boulders. The area also will include mini water slides, other interactive water features and a shallow play area for children.

“This addition serves a key niche to offer an expanded experience for those wanting extensive play opportunities beyond the current 1978 vintage kiddie pool,” said John Bosco, vice president and chief operating officer of the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. “Included in the plans is a water feature that acts as a kid-friendly splash pad by day. After the children’s area closes for the night, it becomes a lighted fountain that can be seen by pool-goers and Glenwood Springs visitors strolling across the pedestrian bridge.”

Although it’s a multi-million-dollar expansion, the final price tag is yet to be determined as terms are negotiated with contractors, Bosco said.

The planning and design process for the new aquatic park and associated features has been in the works for two years. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has worked with two firms specializing in hot springs and aquatic park design: DHM Design in Carbondale and Cloward H2O based in Provo, Utah.

The project constitutes the latest significant renovation for the historic hot springs since 2008, when Spa of the Rockies opened.

In terms of plans for the remainder of the resort, Bosco said the company is working on design concepts and it would be premature to elaborate on them at this time.