Take the Adventure by Nature pledge and receive a free discovery pass

WINTER ACTIVITIES

Winters In Buena Vista & Salida Are Unique

The valley floor typically does not hold snow, allowing for hiking, biking and fishing year-round.

Despite being at elevation, Chaffee County’s ‘banana belt’ valley sees unusually warm temperatures beautifully combined with abundance of snow fall in its higher elevations. Because of this combination of snow and sun, any imaginable outdoor activity is possible. This magical winter destination is a true Colorado secret, awaiting your adventures.

Get your free visitor guide

Skiing & Snowboarding

Monarch Mountain

At Monarch Mountain, we don’t make artificial snow. We don’t have to; Monarch is nestled right up under the continental divide where storms march in from the west and deposit their bounty in abundance throughout the winter. So we’re blessed with an average of more than 350 inches of pure, powdery goodness each season.

Further, we consider ourselves stewards of our environment. Snowmaking can have a multitude of adverse effects on water quality and wild habitats. In the summer, when we fish and float on fresh snowmelt, we take comfort in the fact that we’ve done our best to protect and preserve that resource which we hold dear.

Monarch Mountain is a unique, family friendly ski area. Founded in 1939, this is one of Colorado’s longest running ski areas. The mountain is just 20 miles from Salida and 40 miles from Buena Vista, near the top of Monarch Pass.

TUBING ON SNOW

Snow tubing is the easiest way to enjoy Monarch’s all-natural snow and is sure to be fun for everyone in your group. The magic carpet will carry you to the top of the hill. No hiking! The tubing park features individual lanes to race down the hill. Double up with a little one or challenge someone to a race. Experience après ski at the lodge.

SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL

Monarch Mountain offers an array of lessons tailored to your experience level. Whether you’re strapping on skis for the first time or aiming to refine your snowboarding skills, our expert instructors are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. From kids to adults, group lessons to private sessions, you’ll find the perfect learning environment.

SNOWCAT SKIING

Monarch Cat Skiing has it all! With more than 1,000 acres of open bowls, steep chutes, and beautiful glades, expert skiers/riders have plenty of room to follow their bliss. So tune up your fat skis or long board and experience a ski day you’ll tell stories about for a the rest of your life.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Four Public Hot Springs

Buena Vista and Salida hot springs are surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views of snow-draped mountains and pine forests. Whether you’re soaking in the daylight or under a starry night sky, these hot springs offer an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit.

Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center

Dive into relaxation at one of the nation’s largest indoor hot springs pools. As the sole publicly operated aquatic oasis within 100 miles, it’s a true gem. Part of Salida’s Parks and Recreation Department, this family-friendly haven houses two pools, brimming with mineral-rich, restorative waters. Unwind, rejuvenate, and make unforgettable memories in this aquatic paradise.

Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa

Nestled in the tranquil embrace of the San Isabel Forest and the majestic Collegiate Peaks, Cottonwood Hot Springs has been a cherished retreat since its establishment in 1878. Just a short five-mile journey from Buena Vista, this historic resort offers a serene and enchanting woodland experience. Unplug from the ordinary, and immerse yourself in the magic of Cottonwood Hot Springs.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

Immerse yourself in the pure wonders of Chalk Creek’s “hot pots,” where nature and history combine for an extraordinary experience. This resort boasts a Historic Bath house, steeped in heritage since 1867, welcoming you to a pair of pools. For families seeking adventure, the Upper Pool area awaits, featuring two more pools, a meandering lazy river, and an exhilarating 400-foot waterslide.

Charlotte Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens

Discover the serenity of Charlotte Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens in Buena Vista, Colorado. Immerse yourself in relaxation with three soaking pools filled with non-sulfurous geothermal waters. Our enchanting botanical gardens, open to the public daily, provide a scenic escape amidst nature’s beauty. Experience this haven for rejuvenation and connection with the stunning landscapes of the Rockies.

Snowmobiling

Buena Vista and Salida, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, provide a stunning backdrop for snowmobiling enthusiasts. As the snow descends, the landscapes transform into a winter wonderland, offering a vast playground of groomed trails and powder-filled meadows. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a novice, there’s a trail waiting for you.

Snowshoeing & Cross Country Skiing

Buena Vista and Salida offer miles of well-maintained cross-country skiing trails, which provide an excellent cardiovascular workout and a chance to explore the winter landscape. It’s time to embrace the magic of winter through the serenity of snowshoeing and the exhilaration of cross-country skiing in the picturesque Arkansas River Valley of Chaffee County.

Winter Fishing

The Arkansas River is a renowned destination for anglers year-round, and winter is no exception. As the temperatures drop and the landscape transforms into a snow-covered paradise, this pristine river continues to offer a thrilling fishing experience. The region’s serene beauty and unspoiled waters are the perfect backdrop for anglers looking for solitude and tranquility.

Winter Hiking

When the rest of the region is blanketed in snow, the Arkansas River Valley offers a striking contrast with its dry, hikable trails. Buena Vista and Salida’s favorable winter climate provides an ideal environment for those who crave the tranquility of the winter wilderness without the deep snow and icy conditions.

Winter Off-Road & Jeeping

Buena Vista and Salida offer a variety of off-road trails suitable for all skill levels. From easy scenic routes to challenging terrain for the more experienced, there’s a trail to satisfy every adventurer. Explore the area’s backcountry, test your skills on rocky paths, and traverse through dense forests as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rockies.

Trail Running Buena Vista Salida Colorado

Winter Trail Running

Buena Vista and Salida provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, especially in the winter months. The peaceful, trails in the valley are often dry year-round and offer a sense of serenity and solitude that is hard to find anywhere else. As you traverse the terrain, the only sounds you’ll hear are your footsteps and the whisper of the wind through the pines.

See all winter activities

Video

EXPERIENCES