Buena Vista, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready for an unforgettable Colorado adventure? Welcome to Buena Vista, a charming town in the mountains. It's between the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River. This place offers a true Colorado experience with lots of outdoor fun, beautiful views, and a relaxed vibe.

You can enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting and hiking in the Collegiate Peaks. Or, relax in natural hot springs and try the local food. Buena Vista has activities for everyone, whether you want excitement or peace.

Key Takeaways

• Buena Vista offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, from whitewater rafting and hiking to mountain biking and winter sports.
• The town's stunning natural scenery, including the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River, provides breathtaking backdrops for your adventures.
• Buena Vista's vibrant dining, shopping, and events scene ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Colorado destination.
• The town's accommodation options range from camping and vacation rentals to boutique properties, catering to a variety of budgets and preferences.
• Buena Vista is known for its thriving outdoor recreation community and its reputation as a hub for adventure enthusiasts.

Explore the Outdoor Adventures in Buena Vista

Buena Vista is a paradise for outdoor lovers, nestled in Colorado's heart. It's surrounded by the stunning Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Here, you can enjoy everything from whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River to peaceful hiking trails through the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. It's perfect for those who love adventure.

Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River

The Arkansas River runs right through Buena Vista, offering top-notch whitewater rafting. It has Class II-IV rapids for all skill levels. Noah's Ark provides guided trips, letting you experience the river's twists and turns. You'll also see the beautiful Brown's Canyon National Monument.

Hiking Trails in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness

The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness around Buena Vista has many trails to discover. You can tackle big 14er peaks like Huron Peak and Mount Elbert, or enjoy easier trails like the Brown Creek Waterfall Trail and Harvard Lakes. These trails offer stunning views, alpine lakes, and a chance to see different plants and animals.

Buena Vista is ideal for an adventure-filled trip with its amazing outdoor recreation options. Whether you want the excitement of whitewater rafting or the calm of a hiking trail, this Colorado town has it all. It promises an unforgettable outdoor experience for everyone.

Experience the Scenic Beauty of Buena Vista

Beyond thrilling outdoor adventures, Buena Vista lets visitors soak in its stunning natural beauty. A top activity is a scenic drive on Cottonwood Pass. This road takes you up to the Continental Divide, offering views of the Collegiate Peaks. It's a sensory delight through the Rocky Mountains.

The Clear Creek Reservoir is another must-see spot, just a short drive from town. It's a beautiful alpine lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. There are hiking trails and ghost towns nearby, making it great for outdoor recreation in Buena Vista.

Drive along Cottonwood Pass

The Cottonwood Pass scenic drive takes you to the Continental Divide. You'll see the Collegiate Peaks and wilderness up close. It's a top activity for anyone in Buena Vista, showcasing the area's beauty.

Visit the Clear Creek Reservoir

The Clear Creek Reservoir is a beautiful alpine lake near Buena Vista. It's great for fishing, boating, and swimming. You can also hike and explore historical ghost towns nearby. It's a key spot for outdoor recreation in Buena Vista.

"The drive along Cottonwood Pass is one of the most breathtaking experiences I've had in Colorado. The views of the Collegiate Peaks are simply awe-inspiring."

Buena Vista, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Buena Vista, Colorado, is a dream spot for outdoor lovers. It's a charming town in the Rocky Mountains with lots to do. You can enjoy exciting adventures, see stunning nature, and experience the local culture.

Try whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River or hike in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. You can also take scenic drives on Cottonwood Pass and visit the Clear Creek Reservoir. These spots offer amazing views of the Sawatch Range and its high peaks.

If you want to relax, check out Buena Vista's famous hot springs. The town also has a great dining scene with local craft breweries and excellent restaurants. Your taste buds will love it.

Looking for action? Try mountain biking or enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Buena Vista has it all. History buffs can explore ghost towns and learn about the area's past.

Buena Vista, Colorado, is a top spot for a Rocky Mountains trip. It's perfect for anyone wanting adventure, nature, and culture.

"Buena Vista, Colorado is a true outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering a wealth of activities and experiences that cater to visitors seeking thrilling adventures, scenic natural wonders, and a taste of the local culture."

Soak in the Hot Springs of Buena Vista

No trip to Buena Vista, Colorado, is complete without soaking in the famous hot springs. These hot springs are in the beautiful Collegiate Peaks. Cottonwood Hot Springs and Mount Princeton Hot Springs let visitors relax in waters full of minerals.

At Cottonwood Hot Springs, you'll find a cozy outdoor spot with pools of different temperatures. Enjoy the calm mountain views while you soak. Nearby, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort has six pools, a cold plunge, and a 400-foot water slide for fun.

The hot springs in Buena Vista are full of minerals that help with circulation and ease muscle tension. They're perfect for relaxing after a day of outdoor fun.

Some hot springs, like Cottonwood, have sessions just for adults. The Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort welcomes those 16 and older. It also has spa services, dining, and activities like skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.

"Soaking in the hot springs is the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of exploring Buena Vista's great outdoors."

Whether you pick Cottonwood's rustic feel or Mount Princeton's many amenities, the hot springs in Buena Vista are a must-see. They offer a refreshing experience that's part of any Colorado trip.

Discover the Local Cuisine and Dining Scene

Beyond its stunning outdoor adventures, Buena Vista, Colorado, shines with a vibrant culinary scene. It offers top restaurants, craft breweries, and lively bars for every taste and mood.

Top Restaurants in Buena Vista

Buena Viking, a burger food truck turned restaurant, serves some of Colorado's best burgers. They use local ingredients for their tasty burgers. For a fancy meal, try Wesley & Rose. Here, chefs make seasonal small plates and handcrafted pizzas with local, sustainable produce.

Sorelles Delicatessen is loved by locals for its delicious sandwiches, tater tots, and classic American dishes.

Craft Breweries and Bars in Buena Vista

• The Terrace on Main: This spot offers beautiful views of the Collegiate Peaks. It's perfect for trying local brews and enjoying a fun atmosphere.
• Main Street Tavern: A new spot in town, it has a wide beer selection and creative cocktails. It's a favorite for both locals and visitors.
• Louie's Ice Cream Shop: Cool off with a scoop of homemade ice cream from this local favorite after a day of adventure.

Buena Vista has something for every craving, from casual lunches to fine dining and lively nights out. The town focuses on local, sustainable ingredients and a growing craft beverage scene. This makes its culinary scene a must-try for anyone visiting this outdoor paradise.

Go Mountain Biking on Scenic Trails

Buena Vista is in the heart of Colorado's Collegiate Peaks. It's a paradise for mountain bikers. The area has many trails that wind through stunning landscapes. These trails are perfect for riders of all levels.

The 35-mile Monarch Crest Trail is for thrill-seekers. It's a challenging ride with singletrack and doubletrack. Nearby, the Salida Mountain Trails offer rides for intermediate and difficult levels.

If you're a beginner, check out the Fourmile Travel Management Area. It has trails like Midland Hill and Davis Meadow. Or try the 11-mile Colorado Trail from Mount Princeton Hot Springs to Cottonwood Hot Springs. It's rated intermediate/difficult.

Road cycling fans will love Buena Vista too. The 24-mile route from Buena Vista to Salida is great for a half-century ride. The 25-mile Poncha Pass Summit offers amazing mountain views. For a longer ride, try the 39-mile Salida to Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort route.

In winter, Buena Vista turns into a fat biking paradise. When Cottonwood Pass Road closes, it opens up the snowy backcountry for fat bikers. The 27-mile dirt road from St. Elmo to Tin Cup and the 18-mile beginner-friendly tour from St. Elmo to the Alpine Tunnel are great for winter adventures.

Whether you're an expert mountain biker or a road cycling fan, Buena Vista has it all. Its diverse terrain and beautiful landscapes make it a must-visit destination.

Embrace Winter Adventures in Buena Vista

Buena Vista turns into a winter wonderland full of exciting outdoor activities. It offers everything from peaceful snowshoeing to thrilling snowmobiling. This charming town in Colorado has activities for every winter lover.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

If you want a calm, peaceful experience, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the Cottonwood Pass area. You'll glide through snow-covered forests and meadows. Enjoy the stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks.

Snowmobiling in the Backcountry

For those who love excitement, Buena Vista has great snowmobiling trails. The trails are well-kept by the Buena Vista SnowDrifters club. They let riders see the snowy peaks and valleys around town. It's a unique way to see the beauty of the Cottonwood Pass winter recreation area.

Buena Vista has activities for everyone, from quiet snowshoe hikes to fast snowmobile rides. Take in the fresh air and make memories in this beautiful Colorado spot.

Explore Historical Sites and Ghost Towns

Buena Vista, Colorado, is famous for its beauty and outdoor fun. But it also has a deep history waiting to be explored. The town and around it have historical sites and ghost towns. These places show the area's interesting past.

The town of Saint Elmo is a key historical spot near Buena Vista. It was once a mining town and is now well-kept. You can visit it on a scenic 4x4 route from Buena Vista. There, you'll find a general store, gas station, and other old buildings. It feels like stepping back in time.

There are many other ghost towns around Buena Vista, each with its own story. Places like Independence, near Aspen, once had over 40 businesses and many miners. Animas Forks, near Silverton, was home to over 400 people and sits at 11,000 feet high. These towns show the hard work and spirit of the early settlers in Colorado.

• Explore the historical sites and ghost towns near Buena Vista to learn about the region's fascinating past
• Discover the well-preserved town of Saint Elmo, a former mining settlement that provides a window into 19th-century pioneer life
• Visit other ghost towns in the area, such as Independence, Animas Forks, and Gilman, to uncover the stories of the early settlers who shaped Colorado's history

Exploring Buena Vista's history and its ghost towns is a special experience. By visiting these sites, you learn about the pioneers who lived in this tough but beautiful part of Colorado. It's a way to appreciate their strength and spirit.

Conclusion

Buena Vista, Colorado, is a gem in the Rocky Mountains. It offers a full and memorable experience for visitors. You can enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting and hiking in the Collegiate Peaks.

Or, you can relax in the town's famous hot springs and try the local food. Buena Vista has something for everyone. It's perfect for those who love adventure or just want a quiet mountain getaway.

This place has a rich history and activities all year round. The community is friendly and welcoming. It's a top spot for anyone wanting to see the best of Colorado.

The Sawatch Range and many national parks and monuments are nearby. These places offer natural beauty and cultural sights for all ages.

So, plan your trip to Buena Vista, Colorado. Get ready for an adventure filled with fun, relaxation, and memories you'll always remember. Whether you want excitement or peace, this place has something special for you.