Colorado is full of outdoor recreation, hot springs, and cool mountain towns. Below are five reasons you should visit Buena Vista, Colorado and make it your next family vacation destination.
1. Rafting, Kayaking, and Stand Up Paddle Boarding
The Arkansas River
Colorado’s Upper Arkansas River is known for world-class whitewater, but you don’t have to be hardcore to enjoy this beautiful stretch of river. There is something for nearly all ages and abilities, starting with a scenic float on the Milk Run all the way up to advanced rafting trips in the Royal Gorge. Additional river trips include stand up paddle boarding, inflatable kayaking, and river tubing. Choose from half day, full day and overnight tours, but be sure to go with a commercial river outfitter if you don’t have whitewater experience.
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2. Off Roading
Side-by-side ATV tours in Buena Vista and at the Royal Gorge
Designated off-road trails are up and down the Arkansas River Valley. The Adventure Hub in Buena Vista has guided tours in the San Isabel National Forest, which is just minutes from town. Drive or ride along in a 2017 Polaris RZR 4 900 side-by-side in the Fourmile Recreation Area. Challenge rocky terrain, berms, and rollers with views of Browns Canyon. Off-road tours also depart daily from River Runners at the Royal Gorge, which is only one hour from Colorado Springs.
3. Hot Springs
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
The best way to cap off a day of activity is to relax in natural geothermic hot springs. The Upper Arkansas River Valley is known for its healing waters. Check out Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. Day passes and lodging packages are available, but be sure to book in advance as space is limited. Add a day soaking pass to any River Runners tour.
4. Ghost Tours
Dark Side of Salida and Ghost Tour
Explore Salida, home to Colorado’s largest National Historic District. Your guide will tell stories of wild west shootouts, violent lynchings, ghosts, and spirits. These fascinating and true stories have it all. Return to the 1880s and explore the colorful, but often violent, past. You must check out these ghost and history tours in Salida and Buena Vista, Colorado with our friends at Salida Walking Tours and Buena Vista Walking Tours. Learn more about these recommended experiences below.
5. Mountain Culture
Buena Vista, Salida and Cañon City, Colorado
The Arkansas River Basin is full of awesome mountain towns. You will find art galleries, shops, restaurants, breweries, festivals and much more in Buena Vista, Salida and Cañon City, Colorado. Book your lodging in advance, because the word is out on these up and coming destinations.