Part of a mountain town’s charm is that no two are alike. In an age of strip malls and cookie-cutter homes, mountain towns are an oasis of eclectic local shops and colorful cabins surrounded by nature’s beauty. Where there are rivers and wilderness, there is also the opportunity for outdoor adventure. Nestled near the Collegiate Peaks of Yale, Princeton, Harvard, and Columbia Mountains is the town of Buena Vista. This mountain town is unique in that it offers seemingly endless options when it comes to activities.
Mountain Biking
Buena Vista is well-known for its mountain biking. There are miles of cycling routes in and around BV. The views are spectacular, especially when the wildflowers are in full bloom. It is also nice in that trails range from intermediate, for those who are new to the sport, to strenuous rides that provide even professionals with a rewarding challenge. BV’s Lower Gentleman’s Loop is an easy 5.2 mile ride, especially when compared to the strenuous 42 miles up Cottonwood Pass. For information on the trail systems visit TheTrailHeadCO.com and plan your next cycling adventure.
Disc Golf
In 2010, Buena Vista opened its 18 hole disc golf course. Similar to the original game of golf, players travel the course with an objective of maintaining the lowest possible score. This is where the similarities end. There are no preppy plaid outfits, bags of heavy equipment, or expensive country club memberships. Rather, players toss frisbees at a pole extending up from the ground with chains and a basket where the disc lands. It only costs about $30 to get into disc golfing. All you need is three frisbees at about $10 a piece: a putter, mid-range, and distance discs. The Buena Vista disc golf course is fun and mellow for beginners. The signage ensures you stay on course with relative ease. Die-hard disc golfers will also enjoy this location since several of the shots are long holes, tough lines, and blind baskets.
Adventures with AVA & Colorado Zipline
For an all-encompassing Buena Vista vacation, the best option is to plan a trip with AVA. We have designed trips that range from a half day rafting excursion to the 3 Day Mild to Wild Deluxe. With AVA there is no need to chose an activity when you can sample each experience BV has to offer. The 3 day trip includes whitewater rafting, inflatable kayaking, rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining. AVA will provide the necessary gear, their guides will prepare your meal, and you can fall asleep beneath the stars camping.
Fishing
BV is an excellent destination for your next fishing trip and you are sure to return home with a few tall tales of ‘the one who got away.’ The Arkansas River runs adjacent to town. Its waters are home to cutthroat, brook, brown, and rainbow trout. In addition to the rivers and streams, the area is home to alpine lakes, for those who prefer catching small and largemouth bass. Fishing enthusiast can chose from a day fly fishing in their waders, a casual float trip, or even an afternoon on a powerboat.
Hot Springs
With an action-packed itinerary, no trip to Buena Vista is complete without a rejuvenating visit to the hot springs. Less than five miles west of Buena Vista is the Cottonwood Hot Springs. The therapeutic warm waters were once a spiritual gathering place for the Ute Indians. Today, guests can relax in the geothermal, mineral pools and indulge in a spa day. For an overnight stay, you can chose from the campground, riverside cabins, and old west style inn. Located in Nathrop, between BV and Salida, is the Mnt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort. The springs are natural, 120 degrees at their source, and the water is odorless. There is a historic lodge for overnights and also a spa, open to guests throughout their stay.
Make a trip to Buena Vista this summer and experience the true Colorado outdoors! Book your adventure with Colorado Zipline and AVA today by calling 855-947-7464.
