Here are our top 10 must-do activities before you soak in one of the many hot springs in the area.
1. Shred 100% natural snow at Monarch Mountain
Monarch Mountain offers skiers and snowboarders an affordable ski resort experience. With 100% natural snow the snow is just better! This resort is one of the highest in the country located along the Continental Divide at an elevation of 11, 952 feet above sea level. Off the beaten path of the traffic jams of Interstate 70 this place is laid back and all natural. If you are just learning to ski this place is very affordable to try this new experience. Call ahead and rent your equipment on the mountain or at one of the many ski shops in the area. If you are an experienced skier try a day on the snow cat with over 1,000 acres of terrain where you and eleven others are challenged to track it all up.
2. Go dog sledding
Explore the Rocky Mountains pulled by dogs. These dog sled tours run daily throughout the winter. This is a great family activity or romantic getaway. Be sure to play with the puppies and book your reservation early.
3. Go snowmobiling
Snowmobiling in Salida, Colorado is great because there are two snowmobile clubs that groom over 400 miles of trails. With two long-established snowmobile clubs and several enthusiastic outfitters at either end of Chaffee County, snowmobiling is a blast in the Upper Arkansas Valley. Buena Vista’s Snow Drifters groom 130 sublime miles of trails. Popular riding destinations include Cottonwood Lake, Cottonwood Pass over to Taylor Park, and the ghost mining towns of Tincup and Hancock out of St. Elmo.
4. Take a winter horseback ride
A great variety of rides await visitors looking for a truly Western experience. Horseback outfitters provide a choice of rides for those who haven’t ridden as well as for those experienced equestrians. Those with horses who wish to visit the region can pick from a wide variety of trails and terrain. Stables are available and several Bed & Breakfasts will also board your horse during your stay.
5. Try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing
Snowshoe and cross country ski on the many trails near Salida, Colorado. Easily a dozen cross-country ski and snowshoe trails are sprinkled throughout the Valley. A great trail for snowshoeing in a protected winter wonderland is Waterdog Lakes Trail off US 50 west of Garfield. Stands of pine along this popular trail insulate snowshoers against the wind. The trail ends in a beautiful high alpine basin and it feels like another world. Suitable for all levels.
6. Break off a winter bike ride
Sailida, Colorado is a biking town. The mild winter climate makes it the ultimate winter biking destination. Ride right from your hotel room to access amazing mountain bike trails that are typically open and dry all year round. If you are looking to ride on some snow on a new fat bike it is not far away. If you are a road biker the roads are great to ride in the winter. Train in this high altitude on the same routes the pros ride on the USA Pro Challenge.
7. Catch a fish in the winter
Fishing in the Upper Arkansas Valley is a superb blend of river and big country. Mild winter days in the 40s and 50s make angling on the Arkansas River a year-round experience. With 102 miles of Gold Medal water, the longest contiguous stretch in Colorado, the Arkansas flows through a diverse landscape.
8. Enjoy the nightlife in Salida, Colorado
After a day of action on the slopes, river or trails, the fun continues into the evening and night. Start with a casual dinner at any of a variety of restaurants. Choices include traditional steaks to sushi, from Mexican to Chinese to Italian, from light fare soup and salad to full five-course dinners to satisfy every appetite.
9. Visit the historic downtown of Salida, Colorado
Salida boasts Colorado’s largest National Historic District. Visitors to Salida will find a great mix of stores, art galleries and shops, to meet vacation needs. The vast majority of businesses are locally owned, which means the guy or gal checking you out at the register or answering your questions is the owner. From workshops to galleries to public art to events and live entertainment, the Upper Arkansas Valley celebrates the arts. Take a stroll through The Creative Arts District in the historic downtown. Purchase a local creation to commemorate your romantic getaway.
10. Tour the breweries, distilleries and wineries
Salida, Colorado is home to three breweries, two distilleries and a couple of wineries to tempt your taste buds. Tour these libation locations for the perfect end to your romantic adventure.
Finish your day by soaking in the hot springs!
