Salida, Colo., places locals near exciting recreational hotspots, indoors and out. The town’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains, the Arkansas River, national forests, and wilderness areas makes it an ideal base for active pursuits. The options for recreation in Salida CO cater to a wide range of interests, from leisurely indoor games to adventurous outdoor expeditions.
The spirit of outdoor adventure is deeply ingrained in Salida's identity, but the community also provides welcoming indoor venues for entertainment and relaxation. This balance ensures that visitors and residents can find engaging activities regardless of the weather or their preferred level of physical exertion.
Split Happens Bowling Center: Salida's Premier Alley
Split Happens Bowling Center is the sole bowling alley directly serving Salida and the surrounding Chaffee County area. Established in 1961 and under new ownership since 2018, this venue has been a community staple. It offers updated equipment and a welcoming atmosphere designed for all ages and skill levels.
Beyond traditional bowling lanes, Split Happens has pool tables, arcade games, and even hosts glow bowling and karaoke nights, providing entertainment beyond just strikes and spares. The facility also features a full-service bar and lounge, making it great for a fun evening out.
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center: Geothermal Relaxation
The Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is one of North America's largest indoor hot springs facilities. The clear, odorless geothermal water is sourced from natural springs several miles away in Poncha Springs and piped directly into the center's pools. There is a lap pool and a warmer leisure pool.
Private soaking pools are also available for reservation, providing a more secluded experience for individuals or small groups. This facility, built as a WPA project in 1937, provides a year-round opportunity to enjoy the mineral-rich waters. The commitment to maintaining the natural quality of the spring water underscores its appeal as a rejuvenating destination for recreation in Salida CO.
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area: Whitewater Adventures
The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), encompassing the stretch of the Arkansas River that flows through Salida, provides world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking. This extensive recreation area offers a spectrum of river experiences, from beginners seeking a scenic float to experienced paddlers tackling challenging rapids. You can choose from numerous guided tours available from local outfitters.
Beyond whitewater, the AHRA provides abundant opportunities for fishing, particularly for trout, along the river's pristine waters. The surrounding landscapes also offer hiking trails that follow the river, giving stunning views of rugged canyons and open valleys. This area truly defines the spirit of outdoor recreation in Salida CO.
Local Trails: Hiking and Biking Exploration
Salida has an extensive network of trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. The Arkansas Hills Trail System, located just outside downtown, offers a variety of loops and singletrack paths suitable for different skill levels. These trails provide scenic views of the Arkansas River and surrounding mountains. You can easily access these trails for a quick outing or a longer adventure.
The nearby Methodist Mountain Trails, on the eastern edge of Salida, present more challenging terrain with technical features and thrilling descents, accompanied by panoramic views of the town and the Arkansas River Valley. Further afield, the Monarch Crest Trail, a world-renowned route, offers high-alpine riding and breathtaking vistas for experienced mountain bikers.
Monarch Mountain: Winter Sports and Scenic Views
Located approximately 20 miles from Salida, Monarch Mountain transforms each November into a winter wonderland, offering downhill skiing and snowboarding. This ski area is known for its natural snow and a laid-back, authentic Colorado atmosphere, distinguishing it from larger, more commercial resorts. The terrain is suitable for all ability levels, varying from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging glades for advanced riders.
During the warmer months, Monarch Mountain still offers recreational appeal through its Scenic Tramway. This gondola ride transports visitors to the summit of Monarch Pass, providing spectacular panoramic views of the Continental Divide and the surrounding collegiate peaks. The summit offers a unique perspective on the expansive Colorado landscape, making it a year-round attraction.
Disc Golf Courses: Outdoor Precision Sport
For disc golf enthusiasts, the Salida area offers excellent opportunities to enjoy this outdoor precision sport amidst stunning mountain backdrops. Two notable courses provide diverse challenges for players of all skill levels. You can enjoy a round while enjoying the fresh mountain air and scenic vistas.
The Heart of the Rockies Disc Golf Course (HotRDG) and the Poncha Springs Disc Golf Course offer distinct layouts and natural obstacles. These courses provide a fun and engaging way to spend time outdoors, combining physical activity with strategic play.
Chaffee County Hot Springs: Soaking Beyond Salida
While Salida boasts an impressive Aquatic Center, the broader Chaffee County area is home to several other natural hot springs resorts, each offering a distinct soaking experience. These locations provide additional opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation in naturally heated mineral waters.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs, a resort in Nathrop, is a prominent example, featuring multiple soaking pools, a historic bath house, and creekside hot springs. Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa, situated closer to Buena Vista, offers a more rustic and secluded experience. These nearby options broaden the spectrum of aquatic relaxation available to those seeking passive recreation in the region.
Creative District and Arts Culture: Engaging the Senses
Salida is celebrated as Colorado's first Certified Creative District, offering a vibrant arts and culture scene that provides unique recreational engagement. The downtown area is home to numerous artist-owned studios and galleries, inviting visitors to browse original artworks and often interact directly with the creators. You can witness artists at work and purchase distinctive pieces.
The Steam Plant Theater and Event Center is a central hub for arts and cultural programming, hosting theater performances, concerts, and community events throughout the year. The Salida Creative District also organizes events like First Fridays, where galleries open doors for evening strolls and art appreciation. These cultural offerings provide a different form of recreation, engaging the mind and spirit.
Work with First Colorado Land Office
If you're planning to buy or sell property in Salida, First Colorado Land Office offers the local insight and real estate experience to guide you through every step of the process. With deep roots in the community and decades of market knowledge, their team understands the nuances of land, residential, and commercial real estate in the Upper Arkansas Valley.
Connect with them to start your real estate journey with a team that puts local expertise to work for you.
Connect with them to start your real estate journey with a team that puts local expertise to work for you.
