Discover Salida, Colorado: Mountain Views, Art Scene & Historic Downtown

Located at 11,312 feet in elevation, the Monarch Scenic Tram and accompanying Gift Shop are a key feature of Monarch Pass, a scenic region located along the Continental Divide, near the Sawatch Mountain Range. The tramway originally began operations in 1966 and is maintained as the longest running, and oldest, tramway in the State of Colorado. The ride takes passengers over 12,000 feet in elevation, providing stunning panoramic views of mountains, valleys, and even Pikes Peak when the weather is clear. Surrounding the tramway are plenty of hiking and biking trails, and even benches for guests to rest on while taking it all in.

Address: 24500 US-50, Salida, CO 81201, Phone: 719-539-4091

Situated in Salida proper, the Riverside Park is an ideal destination for quality outdoor family time without too much of a commute. There are many winding paths through the park to push a stroller or pull a wagon on, as well as a variety of exciting playground features for kids to exhaust themselves on. Throughout the year there are various concerts at the bandshell, events being held in the pavillions, and even occasional weddings along the river. For those interested there is a climbing wall, public restrooms, and picnic tables that offer a place to have a meal or snack in the middle of a fun day.

Address: 410 W. Hwy 50, Salida, Colorado 81201, Phone: 719-539-6738

Monarch Mountain is a local favorite ski and snowboard destination, catering to skill levels of all varieties. From Cat Skiing to back country tree runs, easy rolling beginner terrain to technically challenging black diamonds, and everything in between, Monarch Mountain can accommodate the entire family. For those who don’t enjoy traversing the slopes, there is even on mountain tubing with a diverse selection of tracks to enjoy. The Monarch Mountain village has everything visitors could want, from food to ski shops, hotels, and more. To learn about the newest snow reports be sure to check out their website or contact them by telephone.

Address: 123 N F St, Salida, CO 81201, Phone: 719-530-5000

Vino Salida Wine Cellars was founded to showcase the abilities of Colorado grown grapes, and Steve Flynn, the head Winemaker and Founder, takes pride in his work. At Vino Salida guests can sample a collection of wines, including whites, reds, and dessert, both in single glasses as well as flights. While tasting guests are surrounded by rolling mountainside hills, distant vistas, and the knowledge that they are drinking a locally sourced product. Every year Vino Salida welcomes the community to their special Autumn Equinox foot-stomp event, both to produce new wines and to celebrate the harvest season in general.

Address: 10495 Co Rd 120, Poncha Springs, CO, 81242, Phone: 719-539-6299

Experience the thrills of climbing cliff faces, whizzing through valleys, and teetering on sheer edges while being supported by state-of-the-art technology and safety equipment at Captain Zipline. There are a few ways to enjoy the day at this Salida attraction, the main way being to take on the Via Ferrata courses, Italian for “Iron Road”, these courses allow guests to experience exclusive routes, climbs, and ziplines that are otherwise inaccessible to the public. The other attraction is a modern ropes course that is fun for the whole family, comprised of many challenging and entertaining layers and paths, and the perfect opportunity for picturesque action shots.

Address: 1500 Co Rd 45, Salida, CO 81201, Phone: 719-207-4947

Salida’s premier local rafting company, Independent Whitewater operates on the Arkansas River and offers a large assortment of trips for all rafting skill levels and interests. For a relaxed beginner trip, guests are advised to book a Scenic Float, which will take them through gorgeous valleys at a slow pace without any strenuous activity. Guests seeking a bit of a more interactive experience should book the Browns Canyon route, ideal for beginners to intermediate rafters, which conquers class III rapids while travelling through spectacular scenery. There are, of course, higher skill level trips available, but it is recommended that only experienced rafters consider them.

Address: 10830 CO Rd. 165, Salida, CO 81201, Phone: 800-428-1479

The Spiral Drive in Salida is well known be locals and beloved by visitors for its unique driving experience and breathtaking vistas offered at the top. The drive consists of a road that leads out of town and leads passengers in a literal spiral, climbing a small peak, eventually leading to a retired fire lookout station. From this station guests can see in all directions around Salida, with mountain peaks glistening every which way. Be sure to stop and take a close look at the colorfully painted tree alongside the road, it is a piece of art that was created by Curtis Killom, a local artists and business owner.

Address: Spiral DrSalida, CO 81201

Being both the largest indoor hot springs in North America, as well as the only publicly operated facility within 100-miles of Salida is no small feat, but the Salida Hot Springs earns both titles. Using locally sourced hot underground spring water from high in the Rocky Mountains, the hot springs are able to allow guests to soak in fresh spring water without putting a strain on the environment. The facilities include a 75 foot, 6 lane pool in conjunction with a smaller leisure pool, the larger of which is kept at about 84 degrees throughout the year. The smaller leisure pool is warmer, kept at approximately 98 degrees.

Address: 410 W Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201, Phone: 719-539-6738