Buena Vista

Encompassing more than 21,500 acres of canyons, rivers, and woodland, the Browns Canyon National Monument was established in 2015 by President Obama. The canyon itself was carved out by the Arkansas River; it can be explored on foot or on horseback during the summer, and winter visitors can snowshoe or cross-country ski. Visitors can also experience the beauty of the canyon by taking one of the many whitewater rafting trips on offer. There are six campsites along the riverbank, including one with a small outdoor amphitheater and another with an observation deck over the water.

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, CO 81201-1654, Phone: 719-539-7289

Located inside the old Chaffee County courthouse, the Buena Vista Heritage Museum is run by a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the area's rich history. The family-friendly exhibits include an interactive classroom with slate boards and manual typewriters, a display of old wedding gowns donated by locals, a Golden eagle mounted in 1912, and a working model railroad that depicts 130 miles of the Arkansas River Valley. The museum is open from Memorial Day weekend through September, and during the summer season it often hosts special events like wine tastings, cemetery tours, and historical theater productions.

511 E Main St, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: 719-395-8458

The Arkansas River is one of the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the United States, and the Buena Vista Whitewater Park is a convenient way to enjoy the water no matter what your skill level. The park runs right along the river in downtown Buena Vista, and its five whitewater structures include everything from easy play waves to an advanced freestyle hole perfect for experts who want to hone their skills. Gear can be rented from nearby Colorado Kayak Sports; most visitors choose to use a tiny play boat, but kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are also welcome.

922 South Main Street, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: 719-395-2408

Constructed to connect Salida to Granite, the Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway stretches for 57 miles through the Collegiate Peaks wilderness area. Mountains such as Mount Princeton and Mount Yale soar more than 14,000 feet above sea level, and the road passes by plenty of fascinating historical sites like the Old Nathrop Schoolhouse and the Hutchinson Ranch.

Visitors can also go fishing on the Arkansas River, stop for a hike, or relax at the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort in Nathrop. Despite the road's relatively short length, visitors are advised to allow for at least two hours of driving time.

Only 5.5 miles west of Buena Vista, Cottonwood Hot Springs boasts geothermally heated gravity-fed pools of therapeutic mineral water. Temperatures in the pools range from 94°F to 110°F, and there is also a dry sauna for guests to use. The hot springs are open to visitors 365 days a year, and no advance reservations are required. Anyone staying on-site is given complimentary access to the thermal pools; accommodation options include hotel rooms, creek-side cabins, and a campsite. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult, and towels can be rented for an additional fee.

18999 Co Rd 306, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: 719-395-6434

Conveniently located right on Main Street, House Rock Kitchen is a health-conscious fast food joint that prepares all of its food from scratch using fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients. A lively outdoor patio is open in the summer months, and the restaurant prides itself on the positive, welcoming atmosphere created by its friendly staff and great music. The menu includes soups, sandwiches, burgers, burritos, and bowls; customers can also choose from a variety of sides. Young customers can order from a special children's menu, and adults can enjoy alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and mixed drinks made with kombucha.

421 E Main St, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: 719-966-2326

Family owned and operated since it was first established in 2002, Jumpin' Good Goat Dairy is a goat dairy and creamery that specializes in making small batches of artisan goat cheese. The cheese is made with all-natural ingredients, and the farm is proud to prioritize the health and happiness of its goats. Right next to the dairy is a small store that offers complimentary cheese tastings and a variety of local products for sale. Guided farm tours are offered free of charge throughout the year, and special milking tours are also available between late March and the end of September.

31700 US-24, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: 719-395-4646

Tucked away in the mountains between Buena Vista and Salida, the Mount Princeton Hot Springs is an upscale hotel that features rejuvenating thermal pools. The pools range in temperature from 70°F to 120°F; special features include a historical bathhouse built in 1867, a large pool with a 400-foot waterslide, and a luxurious adults-only sanctuary. Complimentary hot springs passes are given to all guests of the hotel, but day passes can be purchased by visitors staying elsewhere. Visitors are also welcome to use the sauna and steam room or enjoy a meal at one of the four on-site restaurants.

15870 Co Rd 162, Nathrop, CO 81236, Phone: 719-395-2447

Noah's Ark Colorado Rafting & Aerial Adventure Park is one of the largest and most experienced whitewater rafting companies in Colorado. In addition to rafting tours down the Arkansas River, the company also offers rock climbing tours, guided backpacking trips, and packages that include a trip to the Mount Princeton Hot Springs. Another highlight is the aerial adventure course, which overlooks the Browns Canyon National Monument and boasts 66 elements including ziplines, rope bridges, and a giant swing. The company only offers tours and trips between May and Labor Day weekend, and reservations are recommended.

23910 US Hwy 285, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: 719-395-2158