Love on the riverbank!
Things To Do
Chill Scoop Ice Cream offers slow-churned Colorado goodness
Open from 12:00 to 10 pm Chill Scoop Ice Cream offers slow-churned Colorado goodness in a variety of classic and featured flavors. Indulge in traditional favorites like Vanilla, Dutch Chocolate, and Strawberry, or try unique creations such as Mocha Java Jolt, Malted Mazel Toff, and Purple Mountain Majesty. Served in handmade waffle cones, their ice cream is known to be the best in town. And for those with dietary restrictions, they even offer vegan ice cream that is just as delicious as the dairy-based options.
The Maverick Potter
At The Maverick Potter visitors can experience an interactive gallery and studio featuring the pottery work of Mark Rittmann. The gallery showcases photography, linocuts, and paintings by local and regional artists. The studio is a working clay studio where visitors can observe works in progress or try their hand at creating their own pottery.
BRODEUR Studio Gallery
Since 1994, BRODEUR Studio Gallery has been a working studio and gallery housed within a beautiful historic building. Visitors can view Brodeur's colorful abstract, impressionistic, and expressionistic paintings, prints, and cards, all part of an eclectic collection.
The Green Cat
The Green Cat is a prominent gallery located in the heart of historical downtown Salida, CO, on the west side of G Street. The big green building is home to the art and studio work of Joe and Steph Brady. Joe specializes in wood and stone sculptures, while Steph creates glass art as well as oil, acrylic, and pastel paintings. In addition to artwork, the gallery also offers Green Cat dresses and t-shirts, as well as vintage beads.
Eye Candy
The art gallery in the historic district of Salida, Colorado represents over 40 artists. Their collection includes one-of-a-kind, original art such as jewelry, pottery, sculpture, paintings, blown glass, vintage and new Native American sterling, recycled creations, wood hearts, glass hearts, horseshoe hearts, and more. All of the handmade art is created by talented and sweet artists, and fills the gallery from wall to wall.
Riverside Park
Riverside Park in Salida offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the paved scenic paths, catch a show at the bandshell, or challenge yourself on the bouldering wall. This is a popular place to swim or take a tube through the waves of the whitewater park. For those simply looking to relax and enjoy the great outdoors, there are plenty of picnic tables available for family gatherings by the river.
"S" Mountain Trails
For stunning views of Salida and the Arkansas River Valley, the“S” Mountain Trails can’t be beat. This area is popular for birding, hiking, and mountain biking. Our favorite hike leaves from town and switchbacks up the Frontside Trail to the Lil’ Rattler Trail, until you reach the lookout tower at the peak (3 miles round trip). It is also possible to drive most of the way up to a lookout parking area via Spiral Drive (CR 176). Local maps and trail info are available at www.salidamountaintrails.org
Salida Museum
The Salida Museum is a diamond find for history enthusiasts. With a vast collection of exhibits spanning prehistoric to mid-century times, visitors can explore Indian artifacts and other oddities. The knowledgeable staff and well-displayed exhibits make for an enjoyable visit. Despite its small size, the museum is worth the small admittance fee and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA)
The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Arkansas River. The area spans 150 miles from Leadville to Pueblo and offers Class II-V rapids. Activities include hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and more.
Little Red Hen Bakery
Little Red Hen Bakery is a collaborative effort where cherished family recipes and original creations come together to create a menu of delectable treats. Open from 7 am to 3 pm, indulge in flaky croissants, indulgent cakes, and more. It's the perfect place to experience the magic of teamwork and the joy of baking! 302 G St, Salida, CO 81201
Sweeties
Founded in 2012 by Rob and Sarah Gartzman, Sweetie's has become a beloved local restaurant in Salida. Open from 10 am to 4 pm, the establishment offers a diverse menu of over 60 original artisan sandwiches, pastries, seasonal soups, and salads. Rob and Sarah's shared passion for delicious food is evident in every dish they create, making Sweetie's a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
Howl Mercantile & Coffee
Located in downtown Salida, this hand-picked gift shop is a must-visit spot for those looking for unique treasures. Open from 9am - 5pm, the store features a collection of local artists' work, vintage records, and serves up quality coffee drinks. The bright and inviting community table is the perfect spot to relax and plan out the day ahead. 130 W 1st St, Salida, CO 81201.
Bunny & Clide
Bunny and Clyde's Corner Cafe is a small local coffee shop and restaurant open from 8am - 4 pm and known for its fresh eats and the best coffee in town. With years of restaurant experience and magical powers in the kitchen, Ashli serves up delicious breakfast burritos (including a vegan option), egg bakes, soups, and salads, always with a hearty vegan option. 203 W. 1st Street, Salida, CO 81201
TACOS!
Looking for the best Mexican cuisine in Salida? Look no further! There are plenty of options to choose from, but one restaurant stands out above the rest. Open from 11am to 9pm, this downtown eatery offers affordable prices, delicious food, and an exceptional staff. With so many Mexican restaurants and taco trucks in the area, it can be difficult to decide where to go. But for a dining experience that won't disappoint, this is the place to be!
The Fritz
Looking for a relaxed dining experience in Salida? Look no further than The Fritz, a gastropub with a mouth-watering menu featuring delicious items such as Brussels sprouts, truffle fries, and smoked trout. With opening hours from 4-9pm, it's the perfect spot for a memorable dinner when you're visiting Salida for a night. Trust us, you won't be disappointed 122 N F St, Salida, CO 81201
The Biker and the Baker
Looking for a charming spot to kick off your evening in Salida? Look no further than this new addition to town, where you can enjoy delectable cheese, charcuterie, and wines by the glass in a sweet rooftop setting complete with floral wallpaper, cozy couches, and live acoustic sets. The establishment is owned by the same team behind the neighboring Sweetie's Sandwich Shop and is open from 8am to 12pm. 123 W 1st St, Salida, CO 81201
Amica's Pizza
Amicas is a vibrant full-service community tap-house and scratch kitchen located in the heart of downtown Salida, Colorado. Open from 11am to 8pm, the restaurant is known for its good energy and great flavors. Guests can order their favorite dishes from the comfort of their table and let the friendly staff take care of the rest. At Amicas, the focus is on using clean, locally sourced ingredients that support the local farmers. With every bite, guests can taste the love and care put into each dish. 127 F St Salida, CO 81201
Boathouse Cantina
Discover the ultimate dining destination with the best view in town at Boathouse on the Arkansas River. Enjoy a unique culinary experience that blends Baja Mexican-style cuisine with American favorites made from organic produce and hormone-free proteins. Try the mouthwatering appetizers, tacos, burritos, and burgers, and quench your thirst with over 23 local draft beers or the famous Boathouse Margarita. Open daily from 11am to 8pm, 406 W Rainbow Blvd. Salida, CO 81201
Hot Springs to Visit
Colorado's geothermal mineral springs offer a chance to soak in some of the purest waters around, renowned for their medicinal and therapeutic value. There are at least five within 30 minutes of Salida.The Ute Indians recognized the spiritual significance of these springs and used them for centuries as a gathering place. Today, people from all over the world visit to rejuvenate and restore themselves in the curative waters. The Cottonwood Hot Springs and Joyful Journey are two of our favorites. Cottonwood Hot Springs: 18999 County Road 306, Buena Vista, Colorado 81211 (Located 30 miles north of Salida) Joyful Journey Hot Springs 28640 CR 58 EE, Moffat, CO 81143 (Located 30 miles south of Salida and 50 miles north of Alamosa on Hwy. 17)
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Experience the magic where towering dunes like Star Dune and the seasonal Medano Creek create a breathtaking landscape. Explore the backcountry Medano Pass Primitive Road as it winds through a canyon towards the stunning Sangre de Cristo mountains. Hike the trails that lead to lush forests, tranquil wetlands, and sparkling alpine lakes like Medano Lake, where you can spot trout and tundra wildlife. And for a thrilling adventure, rent a sand board to ride down the dunes! Whether you visit in the early morning or evening, the views are nothing short of spectacular. Don't miss this must-see destination located just an hour and 15 minutes south of Salida.
Browns Canyon
A White-Water Rafting Paradise in Southern Colorado Browns Canyon is renowned as one of the best white-water rafting destinations in the world, offering a perfect blend of thrilling rapids and calm stretches ideal for families, groups, first-timers, and experienced enthusiasts alike. You can take in the stunning Colorado scenery while experiencing classic white-water rafting. Many companies in and around Salida offer trips down this spectacular class III-IV section of whitewater. For an adventurous day in a beautiful and remote canyon, we recommend checking out Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center or River Runners.
Local Guides and Gear
Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center offers guided rafting trips, kayak and SUP instruction on the Arkansas River near Buena Vista, CO. They also provide outdoor activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, and guided summit hikes. Choose from half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips that cater to all skill levels. www.RMOC.com River Runner offers kayak and gear rentals for all levels. Their rental fleet is regularly updated and their knowledgeable staff provides safety tips. Book your rental today for an unforgettable kayaking adventurer. www.shopriverrunner.com
Mountain Biking
Salida, is a true bike town with a variety of cycling options. In addition to bike lanes and sharrows, the town boasts some incredible singletrack trails. While the Monarch Crest - IMBA Epic ride is a popular choice, the Arkansas Hills and Methodist Mountain trail systems offer some fantastic riding as well. For those seeking trails close to town, the S Mountain Quick Tour or North Backbone to Cottonwood are great options. Additionally, newer trails like Chicken Dinner and Rusty Lung provide a flowy ride, while Hooligan and Dude Abides offer a more technical and challenging experience on S Mountain. Another option is to try the new Spartan West and East trails, which can be looped with the beginner-friendly Little Rainbow trail on Methodist Mountain. SubCulture Cyclery: 129 North G Street Salida, CO, 81201 719.539.5329 info@subculturecyclery.com www.subculturecyclery.com Absolute Bikes 330 W Sackett Ave Salida, CO 81201 719-539-9295 info@absolutebikes.com www.absolutebikes.com
Trails
The Arkansas Hills Trail System, accessible from downtown Salida, is a network of singletrack trails that begin at or near S Mountain. These trails wind through the rolling sagebrush hills and offer beginner to advanced trails. Some of the standout trails in this system, are Rusty Lung, Sweet Dreams, and Cottonwood. Located on the south edge of Salida is the Methodist Mountain Trail System, which offers a range of beginner to advanced trails with more shade provided by pinon and juniper trees. While it's possible to ride to these trails from town, the trailhead is a bit further away, so some visitors may prefer to arrange a shuttle. Don't miss the chance to ride some of the top trails in this area, such as the Spartan Trails, Solstice, and Sol Train.
Monarch Spur Trail
Explore the beauty of Salida, Colorado on the 4.9 mile out-and-back trail that offers a peaceful way to view wildlife in town. Visitors can access the easy paved path from multiple locations throughout town, and it's perfect for road biking, running, and walking. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Salida River Trail
Experience the beauty of Salida on a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail that starts as a paved bike path downtown, leading to Sand Lake and Frantz Lake. The trail also offers an easy double track dirt trail that encircles Frantz Lake and provides stunning views of the Sawatch Mountain Range.
Waterdog Lakes
3.2 mile out-and-back trail that leads to stunning alpine lakes. Although generally considered a moderately challenging route, this popular trail offers a short but steep hike that is perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to spend an average of 2 hours on the trail, which is known for its popularity as a fishing destination.
Browns Creek Waterfall
Explore the 6.2 mile out-and-back trail near Nathrop, Colorado, which is a moderately challenging route taking an average of 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. It's a popular spot for backpacking, camping, and fishing, with many visitors throughout the year.