Cardiff Coke Ovens

About

The Cardiff Coke Ovens in Glenwood Springs are a historic industrial site featuring 19th-century beehive-shaped structures used to process coal into coke for regional steel and sugar production. Located near the Glenwood Springs Airport at 1131-1175 Airport Rd, the site is accessible via a moderate trail that connects to the Cardiff Trail. The hike typically takes about two hours round trip and involves a steady climb with rocky terrain suitable for walking, hiking, and mountain biking. Parking is available at the trailhead, though it consists of a dirt pull-off with limited capacity and no signage. The site is open year-round and allows dogs. Visitors should expect a primitive experience with some graffiti inside the ovens, overgrown vegetation affecting access in places, and nearby construction. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.