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BUENA VISTA & SALIDA, COLORADO
From the towering 14ers of the Sawatch Range to the wild Arkansas River, this is where Colorado’s spirit comes alive. Hike, bike, raft, fish, or simply relax in our hot springs. Explore the welcoming towns of Buena Vista, Salida, Poncha Springs, where adventure, charm, and community meet. Let your next unforgettable memory begin here.
HIKING & BACKPACKING
Rimmed by the mighty Sawatch, Mosquito, and Sangre de Cristo mountains, Chaffee County is a breathtaking place to get outdoors. Running some 100 miles, from south of Salida to north of Leadville, 15 of Colorado’s 58 14,000-foot peaks rise in the Sawatch.
WHITEWATER RAFTING
Welcome to the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area! This is one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The area also offers a world-class trout fishery and abundant opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking, wildlife watching, horseback riding, mountain biking, OHV travel, and sightseeing within the Upper Arkansas River Valley.
Buena Vista
Buena Vista, known as “BV” by locals, is a hidden gem cradled by the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River. With breathtaking 14,000-foot peaks as your backdrop, BV offers a myriad of recreational opportunities. Explore world-class whitewater rafting, hike scenic trails, and unwind in the rejuvenating hot springs. Wander through a vibrant downtown with unique shops and eateries, all while enjoying the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Buena Vista is known for.
Salida
Salida, often called the “Heart of the Rockies,” is where outdoor adventure meets artistic flair. Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Salida is an art lover’s paradise with numerous galleries, studios, and cultural festivals. Embrace the spirit of the Arkansas River, where kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding beckon. Stroll along historic streets of Colorado’s largest National historic district lined with boutique shops and savor farm-to-table cuisine at local restaurants.
Poncha Springs
Poncha Springs is widely known as “The Crossroads of the Rockies,” a nickname earned for its strategic location at the junction of several major highways traversing the Rocky Mountains. Set in the scenic Arkansas River Valley and framed by towering mountain peaks, Poncha Springs invites visitors to explore the outdoors, browse distinctive local shops, sample craft beer and wine, settle into comfortable lodging, and enjoy satisfying dining options.
Winter
Summer
Outdoor
Family Vacation
Explore the historic small towns and the wild outdoors of this enchanting area – together! We’ve put together some plans so you don’t…
