Salida, Buena Vista | COME TO LIFE like the Monarch Crest, Alpine Tunnel and Salida Mountain Trails or the downtown Buena Vista Pump Track . Stop into the Buena Vista & Salida Chamber of Commerce to pick up a map of all the area’s recreational opportunities. breweries, distilleries, wineries, galleries and eateries. Stroll through downtown Salida, one of the state’s Certified Creative Districts, with dozens of artistowned galleries and shops. Kids get a kick out of feeding the fish at the Mount Shavano Fish Hatchery . Delicious restaurants and shops pepper both historic downtowns, and Buena Vista has a vibrant music scene. If you’re still looking for fun, consider the vintage Comanche Drive In Theatre for a nightcap. MONARCH MOUNTAIN Afternoon Rejuvenate at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort , Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa or Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center . Or head to the top of Monarch Pass: In the summer, the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway carries passengers up 12,000 feet in elevation — offering views of the surrounding peaks and nearby Monarch Mountain ski area. Evening Take a distillery or winery tour at one of the many operations in the area — combined, there are close to 100 Stay & Play Options Buena Vista (page 180), Nathrop (page 185), Poncha Springs , Salida (page 186), Twin Lakes MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT WINTER FUN MONARCH MOUNTAIN SKI AREA IS JUST A SHORT DRIVE FROM SALIDA, and the area’s deep snow opens a playground for snowshoers, while snowmobilers delight in zooming around the 400plus miles of groomed trails. The valley floor is often dry in the winter, perfect for rock climbing, a round of golf, hiking and biking yearround. These towns are serious about mountain biking, and winter doesn’t stop them from getting their ride on. All you need is fatter tires. Several shops in the area rent out fat bikes and will point you in the direction of the best wintry trails. COLORADO . COM 123
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2022: Page 123
