This Quiet City In The Rockies Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
Colorado is widely considered one of the top destinations in the United States for nature lovers, if not the best. This is saying a lot when the competition includes the deserts of the Southwest, the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, the wooded Atlantic coastline of New England, and more. But this mountainous wonderland in the Rockies is jam-packed with many of the nation's most recognizable parks, alpine towns, and picturesque scenery in all directions.
Although destinations like Aspen and Vail have rightfully earned their reputations, this article will focus on another lesser-known spot located right in the heart of the Centennial State. It is a deeper look at Salida, a town situated around two and a half hours southwest of Denver that houses just under 6,000 residents. Read on and uncover what it has to offer for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those simply looking for an idyllic weekend escape.
About Salida
Tucked into the Upper Arkansas Valley and surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Sawatch Range, Salida sits at an elevation of roughly 7,000 feet and enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. The town is flanked by both the Arkansas River and the Collegiate Peaks, making it a prime destination for everything from whitewater rafting to mountain biking. Salida's location also places it within the heart of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Originally established as a railroad town in the 19th century, Salida quickly grew into a regional hub for mining, smelting, and agriculture. Today, the town blends its rich frontier history with a thriving arts community and a laid-back mountain-town vibe that continues to attract visitors looking for natural beauty without the crowds.
Again, Aspen and all the other world-famous ski towns in Colorado are great, but for anyone searching for something slightly more off the beaten path, Salida is an outstanding alternative for nature lovers. Surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks, bisected by the Arkansas River, and drenched in sunshine most days of the year, Salida is a place where mountain grandeur meets riverside charm. Despite this, it remains remarkably under-the-radar, perhaps because it lacks the glitz of more commercialized resorts, which is exactly what makes it so special.
Best Parks and Outdoor Activities Near Salida
Refer to this list of the area's top green spaces, parks, trails, wildlands, and other places where you can embark on your next adventure in the great outdoors. Whether you're out to summit a fourteener or want to engage in something a little more relaxing, Salida absolutely does not slouch when it comes to attractions for nature fans of all kinds.
Mt. Shavano and Tabeguache Peak Trail
The Mt. Shavano and Tabeguache Peak Trail, located approximately 15 miles northwest of Salida, is a local favorite for hikers. It gives its travelers a rewarding alpine adventure with unbeatable views of the Rocky Mountains from the top. Starting from the Blank Gulch Trailhead, you can summit both 14,000+ foot peaks in a single, challenging 11-mile round-trip hike. The trail ascends through pine forests and alpine tundra, arriving at a vista over the Arkansas Valley and the surrounding Sawatch Range.
Mount Shavano is renowned for the "Angel of Shavano," a snowfield that resembles an angel during spring melts. On the other hand, Tabeguache Peak, often less crowded, provides a more secluded summiting experience. Dispersed camping is also available nearby, and the trail is dog-friendly. However you want to experience it, this hike is ideal for those in search of a less-traveled yet still classic mountain experience.
Monarch Mountain
Monarch Mountain also sits just west of Salida and boasts an area covering 800 acres of skiable terrain, with 60+ trails catering to all skill levels. The resort receives a sizeable average annual snowfall of 350 inches, ensuring excellent conditions throughout the season. Notably, Monarch Mountain does not utilize snowmaking equipment, relying entirely on natural snowfall (which seems to be a safe bet in this part of the country).
Monarch Mountain's base elevation sits at a lofty 10,790 feet, with a summit elevation of 11,952 feet. The resort features five lifts, including one quad chair and four double chairs, and offers multiple terrain parks for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. For those seeking more adventure in the snow, Monarch Cat Skiing provides access to 1,635 acres of expert terrain, including bowls, chutes, and glades.
Riverside Park
Riverside Park sits along the Arkansas River in the heart of downtown Salida and functions as one of the town’s most active community hubs. This pleasant urban green space is home to groves of trees, a playground, picnic tables, and a network of maintained footpaths, making it a popular and easily accessible place for families and visitors throughout the year.
With easy access to the river for kayakers and unobstructed viewpoints facing the Collegiate Peaks looming in the distance, the park caters to a wide variety of outdoor activities. Furthermore, the park’s amphitheater hosts concerts and festivals during the warmer months, including events like Bluegrass on the Arkansas and the Colorado Brewers Rendezvous.
Gunnison National Forest
Gunnison National Forest, encompassing nearly two million acres, is a haven for adventure seekers looking for a truly wild and remote landscape to dive into. From the rugged peaks of the West Elk Mountains to the serene valleys of Taylor Park, the vast forest offers a diversity of important ecosystems, with an extensive network of trails weaving throughout it. Many paths are open for mountain biking and horseback riding, with popular routes located near Crested Butte and along the Slate River.
The forest also provides ample opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife encounters. Notably, it includes portions of several designated wilderness areas, such as the Maroon Bells-Snowmass and Collegiate Peaks Wildernesses, offering some of the best spaces in the Rockies for a backcountry experience.
Spiral Drive
Spiral Drive is an unpaved, switchback road hugging the edge of town that winds up Tenderfoot Hill, known locally as “S” Mountain (for the giant S on its western face, probably). The road climbs roughly 500 feet in elevation and ends at a small overlook with panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley, downtown Salida, and the surrounding mountains. The route also connects to other trails, such as the Backbone Trail, and other pathways that will allow you to loop back to town in a different direction from where you started. In the spring, it serves as the course for the Spiral Drive Run, a community footrace that has become an exciting local tradition.
Other Landmarks and Attractions
Founded in 1880, Salida has had much time to mature into the robust community it is today, housing a number of businesses, industries, tourist attractions, and historic landmarks worth checking out. See these must-visit spots in and around town to complement your next trip here.
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center
The Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center has long been a standout attraction in Salida, offering you respite in its pleasant, naturally fed spring water year-round. As one of the largest indoor hot spring facilities in Colorado, it features a 25-meter, six-lane lap pool maintained at a comfortable 82-84°F, perfect for swimming, fitness activities, or simply relaxing.
Adjacent to it is a warmer leisure pool, kept at 97-100°F, ideal for soaking and unwinding. For a more private experience, the center offers individual soaking pools with customizable temperatures as well. The mineral-rich waters originate from underground springs in nearby Poncha Springs, flowing naturally into the pools. Built in 1937 as part of a federal project, the facility combines historical significance with modern amenities, including ADA-compliant features and a variety of water-based programs for visitors and residents to enjoy.
Wood's High Mountain Distillery
Kick back and relax in another way at this highly rated distillery that makes whisky, gin, and other spirits with only the best mountain water and locally sourced ingredients. One of Salida's best downtown watering holes, Wood's High Mountain Distillery has been aging their products since 2008, and opened officially in 2012, serving the community for well over a decade now. Its bar/tasting room is a cozy space decorated with outdoor equipment, plants, and art. You may also take a tour of the distillery, although they are often only available in the summer season.
Salida Museum
The Salida Museum is another top-notch museum in town, this time focusing on the area's rich history. Established in 1954 by local historian Harriet Alexander, the museum began in a modest space at the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center before moving to its current location in the late 1900s.
Today, it houses an extensive collection of artifacts that chronicle the region's development, including exhibits on railroads, mining, agriculture, and daily life in the Upper Arkansas Valley. Highlights include vintage photographs, tools, and memorabilia that recall Salida's transformation to a vibrant modern community. The museum also maintains historic local landmarks like the Maysville School and the Smelter Smokestack, further preserving the area's storied heritage for all to appreciate.
Experience the Rocky Mountains Somewhere New This Year
While Colorado’s famous resort towns like Aspen and Vail certainly have their charm, there’s something truly special about discovering a destination that feels a bit more down-to-earth and off the radar. Salida offers that experience in spades. With its sweeping mountain views, vibrant riverfront, and wealth of outdoor activities, this charming town delivers all the natural beauty Colorado is known for—without the heavy crowds or price tags. Less than three hours from Denver, Salida is not only perfect for a peaceful weekend retreat but also a worthwhile day trip if you're up for a scenic drive.
