Things To Do
Monarch Mountain
This is a small, local ski mountain about 45 minutes from Buena Vista. This is your most affordable skiing option. Recommended place to rent ski equipment is Mount Shavano Ski Rentals which is located at 16101 U.S. 50, Salida, CO, USA. 1-719-539-3240 https://mt-shavano-ski-rental.hub.biz/
Copper Mountain
This is a larger ski mountain located about 1 hour and 10 minutes North of BV. This offers a better quality and quantity of skiing than Monarch. If you explore on their website: https://www.coppercolorado.com/tickets-passes/lift-tickets/tickets there are options for rentals at Copper.
River Path
There is a path along the river right out the back steps of the hotel. This path goes along both the West and East sides of the Arkansas River. Trail maps/signs are located all along the trails. There is a bridge North of the hotel and one South of the hotel which takes you to the other side of the river. There are ample trails to take a short "Bridge to Bridge" walk or hike for hours. Click the "View" box below for a link to BV area information.
Explore Main Street
Explore the various shops and restaurants on Main Street. Some of our favorites: Breakfast/coffee: The Blend (Mary's restuarant), The Roastery Lunch/Dinner: Simple Eatery, Sorelle Deli (located on highway 24), Buena Viking, Crave Shopping: The Village, The Mercantile, The Trailhead
Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Take the afternoon to relax in natural hot springs with beautiful views of the Chalk Cliffs. For more info: http://mtprinceton.com
Night Life
There really isn't any! Folks go to bed early around here. However, check out The Lariat or The Main Street Tavern on Main Street if you are interested in an after party. Please be mindful of the very low (15 mph) speed limit. And, please do not drink and drive. The BV cops don't play around?!?
Tennessee Pass Nordic Center and Cookhouse
This is a hub for renting backcountry skis and snowshoes. It is an hour drive from BV. In addition to endless trails for exploring in the snow, there is a Yurt restaurant called the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse. You MUST make reservations ahead of time to access this and it is only open on Saturday and Sunday. It is worth the drive and the effort if you will be in town. For reservations at the Cookhouse, call: 719.486.8114
Cross Country Ski
Rent some gear from The Trailhead on Main Street BV and head North to Leadville (about 40 minutes). Stop at Colorado Mountain College - park near the library. Jump on the trails and try your hand a cross country skiing! The Trailhead can give you all the pointers you need!
Fat Tire Bike rentals
Head to the trails at Colorado Mountain College in Leadville after renting fat tire bikes from this shop. They are great for off road and the snow! The Cycles of Life can give you pointers and send you in the right direction.