West of 105: Destination Salida

Salida is the ideal destination for those seeking a balance between outdoor adventure, arts and culture, and incredible food. Nestled along the Arkansas River and surrounded by the majestic Sawatch Range, it offers year-round recreation with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of small-town Colorado. Its proximity to Monarch Mountain also makes it a great base for winter sports enthusiasts, and in the summer, rafting on the Arkansas River is a major draw.

Arts & Culture

As a certified Colorado Creative District, Salida is brimming with artistic expression, making it a cultural hub in Colorado. The town’s vibrant downtown is filled with galleries, studios, boutiques, and murals, reflecting the rich creativity of its community. Strolling along F Street, you’ll find everything from contemporary art to traditional Southwestern pieces, offering a diverse range of works from local painters, sculptors, and craftspeople. Many galleries host rotating exhibitions, art walks, and live demonstrations, allowing visitors to interact directly with artists and witness the creative process firsthand.

A key cultural landmark is the SteamPlant Event Center, a beautifully repurposed steam power plant that now serves as a cornerstone for Salida’s cultural life. This unique venue hosts year-round events, including live music performances, theater productions, film screenings, and art exhibits. Its riverside location and historic charm make it a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors. From intimate concerts by local musicians to large-scale festivals and film screenings, there’s always something happening at the SteamPlant.

In addition to visual and performing arts, Salida’s creative spirit extends into community festivals and events. Every summer, the Salida Art Walk transforms the downtown area into a lively street festival celebrating visual arts, music, and performance. Other annual events like the FIBArk (First in Boating on the Arkansas) Whitewater Festival combine the town’s adventurous nature with its cultural roots, offering a unique blend of sports, art, and live entertainment.

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Outdoor Adventures

Salida’s breathtaking location makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The Arkansas River, which flows right through town, is world-renowned for its whitewater rafting and kayaking, offering everything from gentle floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids. In addition to rafting, the river provides excellent fishing opportunities, with sections of Gold Medal waters teeming with trout.

For hikers and bikers, the nearby San Isabel National Forest offers countless trails for all levels of adventurers. Trails like the Lost Lake Trail and Rainbow Trail provide scenic views of alpine lakes, aspen groves, and wildflower-filled meadows. In the summer, Monarch Crest Trail, often rated one of the best mountain biking trails in Colorado, offers exhilarating rides with stunning panoramic views.

In the winter, Monarch Mountain, just a short drive from Salida, provides some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region, with a laid-back, locals-friendly atmosphere and consistent snowfall. The area also boasts a wide range of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails for those seeking a quieter winter experience.

After a day of adventure, visitors can soak in the natural hot springs at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort or nearby Cottonwood Hot Springs, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating amidst the beauty of the mountains. Salida offers a perfect blend of heart-pounding outdoor activities and relaxing, scenic escapes, making it an ideal base for any adventure-seeker.

Dining & Lodging

Salida is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining experiences that reflect the town's emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From hearty breakfasts to intimate dinners, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Amicas Pizza & Microbrewery serves up mouthwatering, wood-fired pizzas paired with craft beers brewed on-site while Currents offers a refined yet welcoming dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, Currents provides stunning river views that complement its thoughtfully prepared menu. The restaurant is known for its creative takes on American and contemporary cuisine, offering dishes that highlight fresh, regional produce, meats, and seafood.

Boathouse Cantina, located right on the riverfront, is a beloved Salida institution. With its laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy classic Mexican-inspired dishes, creative cocktails, and local brews. The outdoor patio offers fantastic views of the river, making it an ideal place for lunch, dinner, or a sunset drink.

When it comes to lodging, Salida’s boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts provide the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and local character. Whether you’re looking for a cozy, riverside retreat or a modern, stylish hotel in the heart of downtown, Salida has a wide variety of accommodations to suit your needs. The Salida Inn & Monarch Suites offers warm hospitality with modern amenities, while many charming Bed & Breakfast’s give visitors a taste of local history and cozy atmospheres.

After a full day of exploring the town and its surrounding wilderness, unwind at the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center, home to the largest indoor hot springs pool in the country. The therapeutic waters are perfect for relaxing your muscles and soaking in the beauty of the Arkansas River. Whether you’re enjoying an indulgent meal or relaxing in the hot springs, Salida offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure for a well-rounded getaway.

Explore the Region

While Salida itself is a gem, its location makes it a gateway to even more of Colorado’s beauty. Just 25 minutes away is Browns Canyon National Monument, renowned for its rugged landscape and rafting opportunities. Further afield, you can explore the San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes National Park, a unique environment that offers sandboarding, hiking, and stargazing.

Whether you’re chasing outdoor thrills, enjoying a laid-back artistic escape, or looking for a new favorite restaurant, Salida delivers. It’s a destination that seamlessly combines the best of Colorado’s outdoor and cultural experiences, making it an unforgettable stop for any traveler.

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