Salida, the county seat of Chaffee County, is a treasure trove of outdoor activities.
The charming mountain town is known as the hub for hiking, biking, skiing, and rafting, all within a short distance of the town center.
But it’s not just about the adrenaline rush; Salida also offers stunning mountain views, art galleries, and popular restaurants.
It is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds of more famous Colorado mountain towns.
Fun fact – Salida means ‘exit’ in Spanish and the town is named after the Arkansas River flowing in the canyon.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Salida, Colorado.
Best Things to do in Salida, Colorado
Salida, Colorado mostly attracts tourists with its irresistible mix of outdoor activities and laid-back mountain town vibes.
Hike in the nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains, go fishing or kayaking on the Arkansas River, or check out the historic buildings in downtown.
Here are the best things to do in Salida, Colorado.
Also Read: 39 Best Places to Visit in Colorado
Explore the buildings in Historic Downtown Salida
The Historic Downtown Salida is a must-see when visiting this delightful mountain town.
A National Historic District, it’s home to the largest collection of preserved 19th-century buildings in Colorado.
As you stroll down the quaint streets, you’ll be transported back in time, witnessing architectural styles from the Victorian era and the early 20th century.
Among the notable structures is the Salida SteamPlant, a former power generating station now transformed into an event venue hosting concerts, festivals and art shows.
The Tabor Opera House, another historic gem, offers an insight into the town’s vibrant cultural past.
Many of the buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Aside from admiring the architectural wealth, visitors can enjoy a range of activities.
Wander through the art galleries showcasing local talents, visit charming boutique stores for unique souvenirs, or sample locally roasted coffee in one of the cozy cafés.
And for food enthusiasts, the downtown is dotted with a variety of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to old-fashioned soda fountains.
See the historic exhibits at Salida Museum
Located in downtown Salida, the Salida Museum is a gem worth exploring.
Salida Museum is where you can learn all about Salida’s history.
It was once a stop on the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad and quite a prosperous town.
This museum is home to an impressive collection of local artifacts that narrate the rich history of the region.
Exhibits range from mining equipment and railroad memorabilia to Native American artifacts and local wildlife displays.
Visitors can delve into the fascinating past of the town, learn about the local indigenous tribes, and explore the significant role that mining and the railroad played in shaping the community.
Interactive exhibits make this a fun adventure for all ages, providing an educational, engaging, and amusing experience.
Don’t forget to stop by the museum gift shop to purchase a unique memento that encapsulates the spirit of Salida’s history.
Take in the views at Riverside Park
Riverside Park, located along the banks of the Arkansas River in downtown Salida, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
It offers an idyllic setting for visitors to relax and soak in the scenery.
The park serves as a community hub, featuring verdant green spaces, picnic areas, and a state-of-the-art playground.
It is also home to an amphitheater that hosts concerts and community events throughout the year.
The river walkway is perfect for leisurely strolls while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the flowing water.
The park also provides easy access to the river for those interested in fishing or dipping their toes in the cool waters.
Go for a ride on the Monarch Crest scenic Tramway
Monarch Scenic Tram is one of the best things to do in Salida, CO.
Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway offers visitors an unforgettable experience of breathtaking panoramic views.
Situated along the Continental Divide, the tramway ascends to over 12,000 feet, providing a magnificent bird’s-eye view of the Rocky Mountains, vast forests, and alpine meadows.
This short, exhilarating ride promises a scenic feast that is particularly striking during the fall when the aspen trees are ablaze with golden hues.
At the summit, visitors can enjoy nature trails spreading across the landscape and the gift shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs.
Swim in the mineral water at Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center
The Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is a hidden gem in the city.
It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
This indoor facility is home to the largest indoor hot springs in North America and features naturally heated mineral water sourced from a geothermal spring.
Visitors can enjoy two pools – a large swimming pool that maintains a comfortable temperature perfect for swimming laps and a smaller, hotter soaking pool ideal for relaxation and therapeutic soaking.
The center also offers private soaking pools, a sauna, and various fitness and leisure classes.
Visit Wood’s High Mountain Distillery
Wood’s High Mountain Distillery is a must-visit attraction for spirits enthusiasts touring Salida, Colorado.
Known for its handcrafted, small-batch spirits, the distillery prides itself on using local, organic ingredients whenever possible to create their unique line of artisanal spirits.
Their offerings include whiskey, gin, vodka, and specialty spirits, each with a distinct flavor profile that captures the essence of the Colorado mountains.
Visitors can tour the distillery, learning about the meticulous distillation process and the passion that goes into each batch.
After the tour, guests are invited to the tasting room, where they can sample a variety of spirits and crafted cocktails.
View the Town from Spiral Drive
For an unparalleled perspective of Salida and its beautiful surroundings, make your way up the Spiral Drive.
This winding road, which ascends Tenderfoot Mountain, is one of the unique attractions Salida has to offer.
It’s a favorite among local residents and visitors alike, as it provides an exciting drive and fantastic panoramic views of the town and the Arkansas River Valley.
The lookout point at the top is the perfect spot for capturing memorable photos.
If you’re up for some exercise, consider hiking or biking the trail.
However, be prepared for a fairly steep climb!
Visit at sunset for an especially breathtaking scene, as the sky transitions into a brilliant display of colors and the town lights begin to twinkle below.
Explore Browns Canyon National Monument
Browns Canyon National Monument is a must-see on any Salida itinerary.
The NPS Site is famous for its rugged granite cliffs, colorful rock outcroppings, and spectacular views of the Arkansas River Valley and Sawatch Mountain Range.
This protected area spans over 21,500 acres and was designated a national monument by President Obama in 2015.
The history of Browns Canyon is rich and multifaceted.
The area has been inhabited for over 10,000 years, with various Native American tribes such as the Ute and Anasazi leaving behind petroglyphs and other archaeological evidence of their presence.
The canyon also played a significant role in the Colorado Gold Rush in the mid-19th century.
Today, Browns Canyon National Monument is renowned for its diverse recreational opportunities.
The Monument is a haven for whitewater rafting, with the Arkansas River offering class III to class V rapids.
Hiking trails abound, including the Turret Trail and Hecla Junction, which provide breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species.
The Monument is also home to a designated Wilderness Study Area, where visitors can truly immerse themselves in unspoiled nature.
Also Read: 17 Best National Parks and Monuments in Colorado
Enjoy whitewater rafting at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
One of the must-visit destinations in Salida, Colorado, is the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area.
This area is excellently managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and sprawls over a vast 150 miles along the Arkansas River.
It is conveniently located near the city center, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike.
The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area boasts some of the most thrilling recreational activities, making it a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts.
The park is famous for its world-class whitewater rafting opportunities.
The Arkansas River’s rapids range from placid class I to exhilarating class V, catering to rafters of all experience levels.
Beyond the river, the area has numerous hiking and biking trails crisscrossing the expanse.
They offer incredible views of the Arkansas River Valley.
Its diverse landscape, rich wildlife, and stunning vistas make Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area an unforgettable destination for visitors.
Go on a zip line tour with Captain Zipline
If you’re seeking a thrilling adventure near Salida, make sure to check out Captain Zipline.
This zipline tour company offers an exhilarating way to experience the stunning landscapes of Colorado.
Soaring high above the ground, participants can take in a bird’s eye view of the Rockies, the Arkansas River, and the surrounding wilderness areas.
The zipline course features various levels of difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
With certified and experienced guides to ensure your safety, Captain Zipline is a fantastic way to inject some excitement into your Salida itinerary.
Make the day trip to Buena Vista
Buena Vista is a small mountain town located just 40 minutes outside of Salida.
It is home to some of the most beautiful views of Colorado’s incredible landscapes, including rolling hills, soaring mountains, and winding rivers.
The town itself offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts – you can go fly fishing in the Arkansas river or cycle along its beautiful trails.
For those looking to relax, there are a number of natural hot springs in the area, as well as quaint coffee shops and restaurants.
Buena Vista is an ideal destination for a day trip from Salida; you’ll be sure to take away plenty of memories from your visit.
Ski and snowboard at Monarch Mountain
Monarch Mountain Ski Area is just a short drive away from Salida and is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado.
The mountain offers an abundance of terrain for all levels, from gentle, beginner-friendly slopes to challenging black runs for the more experienced skiers and snowboarders.
The resort also features excellent facilities such as rental shops, restaurants, bars, and a sports center with swimming pools.
Monarch Mountain is also home to a renowned terrain park.
It is perfect for those looking to step up their boarding tricks or just practice their jumps.
Go horseback riding with Granite Mountain Outfitters
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience near Salida, look no further than Granite Mountain Outfitters.
This family-owned and operated business offers horseback riding excursions that take riders through the Colorado wilderness.
The guides are experienced and knowledgeable. They will show you the trails, provide instructions, and even share stories of the local area.
Salida, Colorado is a charming town that blends adventure and relaxation.
Enjoy mountain biking in summer or a dog sled ride in winter.
Admire artwork by local artists. Go rock climbing. Admire the Arkansas river flows.
It is the perfect family escape year-round and hence, should be high up on your Colorado bucket list.
What are your favorite things to do in Salida, Colorado? Let us know below.