Nikki & Jared
Things To Do
Lost Lake Trail
The trailhead is located off Cottonwood Pass, but is not marked well. It is best to click "directions" directly from the AllTrails link provided. Parking is located on the street shoulder. You will likely lose service on the drive.
Ptarmigan Lake Trailhead
One of our favorite spots for backpacking. The trailhead usually fills up early, but you are allowed to park on the street. There are bathroom facilities at the trailhead. You will pass several lakes on this hike, but keep pushing all the way to the big lake at the top!
River Runners Browns Canyon
The Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River (just south of Buena Vista) is the most commercially guided section of river in the United States. Jared has been on many rafting trips on the Arkansas River.
Dvorak Expeditions
The Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River (just south of Buena Vista) is the most commercially guided section of river in the United States. Jared has been on many rafting trips on the Arkansas River.
Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center
The Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River (just south of Buena Vista) is the most commercially guided section of river in the United States. Jared has been on many rafting trips on the Arkansas River.
Collegiate Peaks Golf Course
A 9-hole relaxed golf course. We have played at this course and spotted lots of wild life along the way!
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
We have not been to these hot springs yet, but it's on the list. Check website for reservations.
St Elmo, CO - Ghost Town
St. Elmo, one of the most well preserved ghost towns in Colorado, was founded in 1880. Built around mining, the town hit its prime in 1890. With over 150 mine claims, a telegraph office, general store, five hotels, dance halls, a newspaper office and a school house, the population peaked at about 2,000 people. There's not a whole lot to do here, but a quick trip from Buena Vista to see some of Colorado's history.
Twin Lakes Reservoir
A beach in the mountains! A cool place to fish, camp, or relax for a few hours!
Leadville
A quirky little town, but it is the highest elevation of any city in the United States. If your there and hungry, check out Buchi Cafe for great sandwiches.
Salida
The largest town in the area. If you can't find the amenities you need in Buena Vista, check out Salida as they have a larger grocery store (than the City Marketing in Buena Vista), a Walmart, etc. There's also several great restaurants and bars in downtown Salida.
Deerhammer Distillery
If you like whiskey, this is the place for you! They have great tasting options and awesome cocktails. There's a large outdoor seating area and there is typically a food truck.
Eddyline Restaurant | South Main
This is the breweries restaurant. They also have a brewery-only location 102 Linderman Ave.
Biggies
The line will likely be long at lunch and dinner time, but worth the wait - great sandwiches and sides!
House Rock Kitchen
Great food and drinks with a massive area for outdoor seating.
Buena Vista Farmers Market
Sundays 10AM - 2PM. Stop by for Colorado's famous Palisade Peaches.