Colorado’s Headwaters of Adventure stars the small towns of Salida, Buena vista, Poncha Springs and Monarch. Folks drawn here enjoy the welcome contrasts to the state’s more glamorous destination resorts. You don’t need the trendiest clothes or newest equipment to fit in with the locals. However, if you do have a thirst for adventure we have more than 100 miles of Arkansas River and her tributaries, to raft, fish, float or kayak in. A dozen of the states 53, 14,000 ft peaks touch the sky here in the Sawatch Range.

PaddleFest May 15-17, 2009

Annual Arkansas River Clean Up/Green Up May 16-18, 2009

61st Annual FIBArk Whitewater Festival June 18-21, 2009

17th Annual Salida Art Walk June 25-28, 2009

United States Air Force Concert Band July 2, 2009

Celebrations in Salida & Buena Vista July 4, 2009

Collegiate Peaks Stampede Rodeo July 10-11, 2009

13th Annual Colorado Brewers Rendezvous July 11, 2009

Collegiate Peaks Music Festival July 24-26, 2009

5th Annual Salida Omnium July 31-August 2, 2009

Gold Rush Days August 1-2, 2009

Contin-tail Rock & Gem Show August 26-Sept. 9, 2009

Apple Fest September 12, 2009

Autumn Color Run September 19, 2009

ATV Historical Color Tour September 22-26, 2009

Outdoor Recreation
The valley is home to a diverse population made up of ranchers, artists, outfitters, entrepreneurs, teachers, bakers, brewmeisters, just to name a few.

The Vital Arts and Music
scene resounds year around with performers showing their wares or performing at local galleries, cafes and auditoriums.

Mecca for the Outdoor Enthusiast
Choose from recreational activities such as hiking, biking, ATVing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, flyfishing, camping, horseback riding, swimming & golfing.

In the “Banana Belt”
Year-around visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries, glorious hot springs and a large selection of antique shops in the historic towns of Salida and Buena Vista. Lodging options range from motels to rustic inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels to guest ranches.

From the outdoor active enthusiast to the extended family looking for a place to relax and unwind, Chaffee County has it all. Come discover why we say, “Now this is Colorado”.