Discover Salida, CO: Nature’s Playground

Adventures and Activities:

• ATV Tour: This is one of the best ATV rentals in the area! Take a ride through the National Forest and learn more about the history of Salida.

• Whitewater Rafting: Suited for all levels, enjoy the thrill of coasting down the river’s rapids while enjoying the scenic views.

• Kayaking Adventure: Rent kayaks and venture down the Arkansas river with a certified instructor.

• Mt. Princeton Hot Springs: Dip your toes into the local hot springs and enjoy some relaxation from the natural thermal waters after a day of adventuring.

• Salida Walking Ghost and History Tours: Listen to chilling ghost stories or the ruthless and thrilling history of Salida while walking its historic streets.

Hiking:

Note: Colorado weather tends to fluctuate, ensure you are prepared with essentials before venturing into the wilderness. I suggest hiking early in the day to avoid afternoon rain showers.

• Marshall Pass Trailhead: If you’re camping at Lake O’Haver (30 min drive from Salida), hike Marshall Pass to straddle the Continental Divide. Note: You can also drive this trail, but use caution and ensure your vehicle has appropriate 4WD and clearance.

• Front Side, Tenderfoot, Little Rattler and Spiral Trail: Moderate, 8-mile hike loop, located on the north side of Salida. Each trail is connected in various ways, so you can enjoy as little or as much as you’d like.

• Race Track Trail: Easy, ~ 3-mile hike, out and back, located on the edge of Salida. Good for hiking and mountain biking. Find a convenient parking lot at the trailhead.

• If you’re feeling adventurous, there are numerous "14er’s" (mountains over 14,000ft) located near Salida to experience as well.

Day Trips:

• Great Sand Dunes National Park: Just an approx. 1.5hr drive from Salida, venture south to dip your toes in the Mendano Creek, sled down the sand dunes or experience the park at night. Fun Fact: Great Sand Dunes National Park is also a certified International Dark Sky Park — visit on a moonless night to see a breathtaking view of the stars!

• The Springs Resort and Spa: About a 2.5hr drive from Salida is another small mountain town called Pagosa Springs — here you can enjoy the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, spreading to multiple pools with various temperatures.

Local Grub:

• Amicas Salida: Located right in the heart of Downtown Salida, enjoy some of the best wood-fired pizza in all of Colorado! I suggest trying the Beehive Honey Wheat beer with the Salsicca pizza.

• Boathouse Cantina: This restaurant is located right on the Arkansas river — sit on the patio to enjoy views of kayakers and tubers, while savoring some great Mexican fare.

• 50 Burger Shakes & Beer: If you like burgers and fries, this place is a must-stop location. Everything is made with fresh local ingredients and it is a certified Green Restaurant.

• Little Red Hen Bakery: Perfect spot to enjoy breakfast or afternoon pastries — all goods are baked from scratch using local ingredients. Try the tart cherry hand pie or the delicious morning bun.

• Chill Salida Ice Cream: After a tasty meal from the Boathouse Cantina, walk behind the building to Chill — they have some of the best slow-churned ice cream. For chocolate lovers, Moose on the Loose is a 10/10 flavor.

Beer + Cocktails:

• Elevation Beer Company: Bring your furry friends and enjoy a crisp Kolsch or barrel-aged imperial stout, while basking in the views of the Pike-San Juan National Forest. Personal Favorites: Tres Amigos and Beauty & Justice (a taproom exclusive)

• Tres Litros Beer Co.: In this open-air taproom, taste the many different flavors of high-altitude beer. They also feature weekly live music. Personal favorites are Blueberry Lemon Diesel Sour, Riverside Pale Ale and Suds.

• SoulCraft Brewing Co.: Enjoy a variety of unique beers (i.e., The Green Chile Ale, made with green chiles and serrano peppers), ciders and wines while playing weekly trivia.

• Woods Distillery: Take a tour of the distillery and drink cocktails that are made with ingredients directly from the San Luis Valley.