5 Days

Adventure in the Arkansas River Valley

Ditch the crowds and adventure in the "real" Colorado. The Arkansas River Valley welcomes you with stops in scenic Leadville, Buena Vista and Salida.

Sustainability Activity

Help with Trail Maintenance

The Buena Vista Singletrack Coalition is always looking for volunteers and donations to maintain their beautiful tracks for future generations.

Day 1

activity

Top of the Rockies - Scenic and Historic Byway

Designated a National Scenic Byway in 1998.

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lunch

Buchi Cafe Cubano Leadville

At Buchi, passion is the most important ingredient, and we hope to bring you a memorable Cuban Cafe experience with every bite (and sip).

activity

Hike the Interlaken Trail

This hike traverses the south shore of Twin Lakes and leads to Interlaken, a fascinating historic resort site — popular in the late 1800s. From there…

dinner

Twin Lakes Saloon

Located inside The Twin Lakes Inn, the Saloon serves up tasty meal choices within a true Wild West setting. Enjoy tasty appetizers, drinks and meals…

activity

Silver Dollar Saloon

Established in 1879, the Silver Dollar is the second oldest saloon in Colorado. With its original tile floor and its custom made bar with original diamond…

lodging

Mount Elbert Lodge and Cabins

Enjoy area fishing, hiking, rafting, ziplining, sightseeing, winter activities. Roomy cabins and lodge rooms with mountain views. Mount Elbert Lodge:…

Day 2

breakfast

City on a Hill Coffee & Espresso

We are located in the green brick building in the center of downtown Leadville, just south of the traffic light. The shop is a warm place to relax,…

Insider's Tip

Head to Buena Vista

Start your morning with a 30-minute car drive to Buena Vista.

activity

American Adventure Expeditions

Whitewater trips on Colorado's most popular river, mountain-bike tours on the Continental Divide, guided high-country ATV tours and ziplining over rugged…

Insider's Tip

Lunch Is Served

You'll enjoy lunch dished up by your guides on the river.

activity

Stroll Down Main

Walk along Main Street and South Main Street in downtown Buena Vista for live music, galleries and one-of-a-kind shops.

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activity

The Beach

The Beach is a seasonal restaurant, bar, live music venue, and weddings and events center located next to River Runners, right on the Arkansas River…

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 the…

Day 3

breakfast

Buena Vista Roastery Cafe

This little town in the sky has the highest concentration of fourteeners (14,000-foot mountains) in the contiguous United States! Roasting at this elevation…

activity

Mt. Princeton Riding Stables

Scenic rides along Chalk Creek and overlooking the spectacular Chalk Cliffs.

lunch

Sorelle Delicatessen

We are an Italian inspired delicatessen featuring all-natural meats and cheeses along with many house made specialties!

activity

Go Fishing at Cottonwood Lake

Spend a fun-in-the-sun afternoon on this beautiful lake, catching fish.

Insider's Tip

Treat Yourself

Book a spa treatment after dinner at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort to get really relaxed before bed.

lodging

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

Located in Nathrop between and . Ideal for family vacations, romantic getaways, or . Enjoy a one-day experience or relax with an overnight stay at…

Day 5

Insider's Tip

Drive to Salida

Get an early start to your day by driving 25 minutes to Salida for breakfast.

breakfast

Gathering Grounds Coffee

Our mission is simple: to create a place for Salida to gather around delicious healthy food, excellent coffee and good company.

activity

Captain Zipline Adventure Tours

Be a Ninja Nature Warrior in Captain Zipline's NEW Aerial Adventure Park-where Indiana Jones meets SpiderMan-the largest in the Western USA! 120 challenge…

lunch

Boathouse Cantina

We serve fresh, organic and local produce and there is no doubt that you can taste the difference! Sit next to the river and sip on one of our house-engineered…

dinner

Currents Restaurant

Currents is the place to be for steak and seafood. We offer something for every budget and taste; from steak and crab cakes to fried chicken and fresh…

activity

Go Gallery Shopping

First Street beckons you with exclusive Salida art galleries. Make a purchase for your home's walls or for friends and family.

lodging

Browns Canyon Inn

Pet friendly hotel in beautiful Salida, Colorado. Ranked #1 in Travelocity hotel reviews.

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