Just a few days in Chaffee County will leave you longing to come back again and again. Explore Salida, Monarch, Nathrop and Buena Vista over three days.
Sustainability Activity
Give Back
Guidestone Colorado is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization growing a vibrant agricultural future through education, community building and partnerships.
Day
1

Activity
Monarch Dog Sled Rides
We offer thrilling dog sled rides through the beautiful San Isabel National Forest. Tours can last from 1.25 hours to 3 hours. Come learn about…
Lunch
Sweetie's Sandwich Shop
Hot and cold sandwiches, salads, seasonal soups, sweets, soft serve and more.
Activity
Riveting Experience Jewelry
Design and wine, make your own jewelry studio. Come join us as we share our passion for making beautiful things by hand. Explore the many…
Dinner
High Side Bar & Grill
Atmosphere and good eats. Nothing more to say, except the view of the river will keep you coming back!
Activity
Salida Creative District
Arkansas-Riverside Salida was named one of Outside Magazine's Top 10 Best Small Towns in 2009, and since then it's become even better! Its…
Lodging
Amigo Motor Lodge
A newly renovated boutique motel with 60-year-old bones. Modern furnishings meet minimalist design to create a space that is friendly, casual and…
Day
2
Breakfast
Brown Dog Coffee
There is a location in the northern end of the county and another in the southern end, with good reason. Brown Dog has excellent breakfast…
Activity
Monarch Mountain
Abundant natural snow, great terrain and an easy-going, friendly vibe. Monarch is perfect for families; all runs flow back to a single base lodge…
Lunch
Sidewinder Saloon
The Sidewinder Saloon at Monarch Mountain features full-service sitdown dining, locally crafted beer and spirits, and a full menu. We are famous for…
Activity
St. Elmo Ghost Town
It is said that St. Elmo's population rode the last train out of town and never came back.
Dinner
Mary Murphy Steak House
The chalk cliffs overlooking hot springs and a creek will provide you with an ambience for fine dining. The Mary Murphy Steakhouse will wow you, for…
Activity
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Enjoy a touch of luxury in these modern cozy log cabins. Rustic at heart, each cabin houses either a 1 or 2 bedroom layout, a loft with 2 queen…
Lodging
Amigo Motor Lodge
A newly renovated boutique motel with 60-year-old bones. Modern furnishings meet minimalist design to create a space that is friendly, casual and…
Day
3
Breakfast
Robin's
Robin's is one of the county's newer restaurants. Within the first month they had a following, with good reason!
Itinerary Tip
Hit the Road
Drive a half-hour south to Buena Vista for the next leg of your adventure. Fun Fact: Locals call Buena Vista "BV."
Activity
Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals: Cottonwood Pass Snowmobile Tours
ATV/UTV/RZR, side-by-side, snowmobile, Polaris Slingshot and motorcycle rentals in Buena Vista, Colorado. Take a guided tour or a self-guided tour…
Lunch
K's Dairy Delite
Burgers, soft-serve ice cream and just plain fun! Try the Troublemaker Combo with bacon.
Activity
Buena Vista Hike
Buena Vista is Spanish for "good view," and it offers year-round hiking access. Check out one of the many epic trails around town.
Dinner
Sorelle Delicatessen
We are an Italian inspired delicatessen featuring all-natural meats and cheeses along with many house made specialties!
Activity
Peak Fitness
Peak Fitness does day passes! Try out their rock climbing wall or use their gym. City amenities without the crowds.
Lodging
Surf Hotel & Chateau
Welcome to the Surf Hotel, a boutique hotel in the adventure town of Buena Vista. Inspired by the understated elegance of European hospitality and…