Recreation / Lifestyle Information

The big reason to move to a rural community is to improve your lifestyle... to get back to doing those things that really matter and that really bring you happiness and pleasure during your recreational time. Recreation programs include classes in crafts, drama, fishing, dancing, yoga, softball, kayaking, swimming... well, we just can't list EVERYTHING there is to do here in this peaceful valley, but here's the "short" list:

Fishing:

The Denver Post now rates the Arkansas River as one of the state's best places to fish for brown trout (some reported catches over 20"), although the entire Arkansas Valley is an abundant fishing paradise with all of it's many square miles of reservoirs, natural lakes and streams.

Beginners and children find the Hayden Meadows Lake (Lake County), the Buena Vista Town Lake and other similarly stocked lakes and ponds a way to "guarantee" a successful fishing experience, while the more experienced anglers can find high yield experiences via boating, tubing, wading or lakeside fishing.

Spring and summer are seasons ready for the voracious mackinaw... ready to take large bait and lures from the patient angler.  Among the eagerly awaited fishing season is the caddis fly hatching when the trout literally go crazy gorging themselves on the emerging flies.

Family fishing site are available throughout the valley with picnic tables, grills, and other facilities, although the Arkansas Valley is also well known to the more adventurous who can follow maps to the clear mountain streams which host the abundant green and mountain trout.

Certain restriction apply in some locations... limit and size... so it's important to check with experts before taking off.

Golf:

The Arkansas Valley offers three public golf courses, one in Leadville (Mt. Massive Golf Course), one in Buena Vista (Collegiate Peaks Golf Course), and one in Salida (Salida Golf Club Bar & Grill).  Because of the frequent mild temperatures, Buena Vista's course is open year 'round.

These courses offer spectacular views of the mountains, with well maintained greens and fairways.

1. The Mt. Massive course just outside Leadville (9 holes) is North America's highest course at 9,700 feet above sea level.  Club house open 7-7, weather permitting.
2. The Collegiate Peaks course just outside Buena Vista offers 9 holes of wide fairways and four lakes.  Bar and snack bar open 7 days a week.
3. Salida Golf Club in Salida offers one of the most scenic courses with bar and grill and golf shop.  Typically open from March to November.

Hiking and Mountain Biking:

Hiking and mountain biking in the Arkansas Valley offers spectacular views, great exercise and a chance to visit historical sites not accessible by motorized vehicles.  The famous Colorado Trail runs through the valley in many places and offers access to the many lakes, streams and ghost towns that seem to be everywhere.  Maps are available from many merchants in the valley as well as the Leadville and Salida Ranger District offices (Leadville and Salida respectively) which lay out the miles and miles of spectacular hiking and mountain biking trails.

Most of the valley consists of public lands (U.S. Forest or BLM); however it's important to watch for posted signs.  The Colorado Trail often runs through private property, however as long as you remain on the trail, you're in good shape.  We've included safety information on this site which you should review prior to taking off and certainly get first hand information from the local merchants in our area about degree of difficulty and supplies that you should take with you.

Leadville hosts the Mineral Belt Trail which is 12.5 miles, open all season as weather permits, with approximately 6 miles running through the historic mining district.   Designed for bicycles, walkers, wheelchairs, strollers, and in-line skaters.  The trail is groomed in the winter for freestyle and classic Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and winter biking.

The Monarch Crest Trail, the Midland Trail (the old railroad bed of the Midland Railroad route), the Marshall Pass Road (great for families), and countless others can be found on trail maps throughout Chaffee County. The views of the 14,000 peaks are spectacular!

Historical Tours:

Because of the rich heritage of the Arkansas Valley, exploring our historical landmarks is perhaps the single most popular activity.  It was the gold boom of 1860 which brought tens of thousands of hopeful prospectors west and later the silver boom which made countless millionaires over night.  To help you discover and appreciate this fascinating history, the Arkansas Valley has a myriad of tours you can participate in, including self guided tours as well as jeep tours.  In addition to these, here's the "short" list of some of the tours you might consider taking (contact the local Chambers of Commerce for more information):
Leadville/Lake County:

1. "The Earth Runs Silver"... captures the drama of Leadville's legendary mining camps.   This presentation is shown year 'round.
2. Healy House and Dexter Cabin tour… a glimpse into two of Leadville's original homes.
3. Augusta Tabor Home... built in 1878 this original home is filled with Tabor memorabilia.
4. Tabor Opera House... this opera house hosted Houdini, Sousa's Marine Band and countless other famous performances.
5. Doc Holliday's... this 45 minute tour shows where Doc Holliday stayed while in Leadville and explores the old bordello.
6. Delaware Hotel... "Murder and Mayhem" tour, as well as a complete tour through this magnificent hotel are hosted at the Delaware (by reservation).
7. National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum... this amazing facility documents the history of mining, with displays, artifacts and amazing stories of the early west.
8. Matchless Mine... the hub of the Horace and Baby Doe Tabor story is preserved here and the tour included the entire story of this rags-to-riches-and-back-to-rags story.
9. Leadville National Fish Hatchery... second oldest fish hatchery in the US, (established in 1889)... this will amaze and delight the entire family.
10. Leadville, Colorado and Southern Railroad Scenic Train ride... 2.5 hour ride leaving from the historic depot, traveling 11 miles out following the Arkansas River toward Fremont Pass.
11. Evergreen Cemetery... Dating back to 1879 this cemetery has over 22,000 inhabitants.
12. Historic Walking Tour... view 21 of the most amazing historical building that typify the early west development of Colorado.

Chaffee County:

1. Buena Vista Walking Tour... many of the town's buildings date back to the 1880's and this self guided and toured walking tour takes you to some of the most interesting homes.
2. Salida Walking Tour... Salida thrived as a railroad hub for many years, and its historical buildings prove why Salida touts itself as the largest historical district in the state.
3. Gondola Ride... located at the top of Monarch Pass, the Monarch Crest Scenic Tram will take you to over 12,000 feet in elevation to view some of Colorado's most scenic peaks.
4. Clear Creek Canyon auto tour... follow this gravel road to one of Chaffee County's boom areas and explore the ghost towns of Vicksburg, Rockdale and Winfield.  See the Vicksburg museum and restored ghost town of Winfield, then follow the trail to the Banker Mine and Winfield Cemetery.
5. Ghost Town of St. Elmo... this auto accessible historic district will take you to the restored ghost town of St. Elmo and provided access to the ghost towns of Hancock, Romley and the Alpine Tunnel hike.
6. Shavano... located northwest of Maysville is the former town site of Shavano, one of the county's earliest gold mining camps.
7. Turret... located 12 miles north of Salida, Turret was another gold camp worth exploring
8. Lost Mine... the Lost Mine located a short distance south of Salida offers one of only 13 guided tours in the state through an actual mine.  The caverns and crystals in this mine are a "must-see"... tours by reservation only.

Horseback Riding:

Horseback riding in the Arkansas Valley is almost a way of life here.  Enjoy daily rides, overnight trips, champagne breakfasts on the trail... and visit fishing areas, ghost towns and spectacular views.   Riders of all levels of experience are welcome.

You may also find a carriage ride or wagon tour a real treat for the entire family.  Witness the historical buildings in the warmth of our Arkansas Valley sun as you plod down the main streets, or jump on a hay bale in one of our wagons and hit the high country trails.

Hot Springs:

The famed hot springs of the valley were originally thought to have healing powers among the Indians and early prospectors.  Today they offer soothing heat, and swimming and diving fun.  Some hot springs spill into nearby Cottonwood Creek in Chaffee County and allow visitors to sit in the river with 90+ degree water rushing over them.  Private hot springs for soaking as well as public hot spring swimming pools are located throughout Chaffee County.

Hunting:

The Arkansas Valley is well known for its trophy hunting opportunities.  Big game abounds here, including elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, big horn sheep, mountain goat, moose and bear.  You can no longer obtain an over-the-counter deer license.  You must apply.  Guide services are available if you need assistance or are unfamiliar with the area.

• Archery season opens: Aug 30th
• Muzzle Loading Rifle season opens: September 13th
• Rifle season opens: Oct 11th
• (check DOW or local merchants for restrictions)

Off Road - ATV and 4-wheel Drive:

Not only are there countless off-road trails for the ATV and jeep enthusiast, but organized tours are also hosted by local clubs and organizations.  In late September The Color Run ATV tour is hosted through mining camps, ghost towns and high mountain lakes... right when the aspen colors are at their peak.

We urge you to respect private property and watch for posted signs.  Some trails pass through private property and you are asked to PLEASE stay on the trails.  Because there are literally so many trails, we suggest you contact a local guide service for detailed maps and instructions.

Here's just three of the 4-wheel drive and ATV trails in the Arkansas Valley:

1. Mosquito Pass (Lake County)... an exciting ride outside Leadville past the London Mill over to the John Dyer memorial site, then down the other side to the gold boom town of Alma.
2. Bassam Park-Aspen Ridge (Chaffee County)... one of the most spectacular rides during aspen season
3. Chalk Creek Canyon (Chaffee County)... follow the old railroad bed to the ghost town of St. Elmo, then Romley and the Mary Murphy Mine ruins.

Prospecting, Rock Hounding:

Maybe the first minerals we think of in the Arkansas Valley are gold and silver... probably because of the huge gold and silver boom towns that pulled tens of thousands of tons of the ore to the surface.  But the Valley actually offers one of the best areas for rock, mineral and gem hunting in the western states.  The valley is a highly mineralized belt that has eroded enough to expose many of these beautiful rocks and gems... like fluorite, topaz, petrified wood, peridot, Indian tear drops, and countless others.

Favorite and productive sites include the Mt. Antero and Mt. White areas, as well as ruby Mountain, and Taylor Mountain.  Since many areas are located on private property, it's best to talk with the many experts in the Valley for guidance on the best and most accessible locations for rock hounding.

Rafting:

Did you know the Arkansas River is the most popular rafting river in the world?  It's because of the wide diversity of rafting choices... Class I thru Class V rapids... 1/2 day to 5 day trips... beginner to expert... accessibility to major drop off points... the most whitewater per mile anywhere... and the length of the season.  Where else can you and your family take an exciting trip down a vibrant river, through a beautiful canyon and get that little adrenal rush as you pass through whitewater rapids?

Or if you're a bit more adventurous how about blasting through some intense rapids like the Graveyard, Numbers, Raft Ripper, Zoom Flume, Bid Drop and Widowmaker.  Kayakers enjoy this spectacular river as well, and thousands take advantage of this playground every year.

Hiking / Snowshoeing

The words "winter wonderland" can be truly experienced with a hike through our back country during the winter months.  The air is crisp and clean and the snow hanging from the pine trees and mountain peaks makes for post card views.  Snowshoeing has rapidly become a favorite among those who want to enjoy the peace and quiet of a beautiful winter snow in our back country or along groomed trails.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is also popular on a number of groomed lakes in the area, and depending on location and weather conditions, the local Chambers of Commerce and appropriate merchants can direct you to the best places.

Camping

Without a doubt, Colorado is the finest place to park your RV, pitch a tent, or settle down in a cabin

Indoor Activities

Although the Arkansas Valley is very proud of its snowfall quality and volume, which offer so many outdoor activities, there is also a myriad of things to do inside as well:

1. Art Galleries and Cultural Events:
   The valley has been recognized as one of the nation's best art and cultural centers and a visit to many locally operated galleries and shops proves why.   Many events such as Leadville's Victorian Home tour, and a number of local Art Walks throughout Chaffee County present some of the very best architectural and artistic talent.  Some facilities offer craft activities, like pottery-making classes, quilting, water color painting, etc.
2. Hot Springs:
   You've been hitting the slopes and want a relaxing and soothing bath/shower?   Or maybe you're just looking for some exercise, relaxation or fun?  How about a hot springs soak or swim?  Many hot springs are open year 'round with world famous hot springs, over 30 all natural creek side pools, water slides, massage and spa facilities.  Soaking pools are typically kept at 102-104 degrees... some facilities offer herbal-aloe salt glow treatments, herbal body wraps, etc.
   
   Swimming lessons are also featured at the swimming pools, and some offer waterfalls, fountains and jets.

Skiing / Snowboarding

World renowned white powder downhill skiing can be best enjoyed right here in the Arkansas Valley.  Ski Cooper, located just 10 miles north of Leadville opens in late November and remains open through March.  Lessons and rentals are available at this family oriented resort.  Taking an annual snowfall of 260 inches, Ski Cooper makes for some of the best and most affordable skiing in the state.

Chaffee County also brags the famous Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area, recently adding $350,000 worth of new improvements to its resort, including espresso bar, café and Gunbarrel Café and Sidewinder Saloon.  Lessons and children's services are available.

For those cross country skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts, the Arkansas Valley touts countless trails and beautiful places to visit... many are the same spectacular trails that are hiked during the summer months.  Because of the popularity of cross country skiing and snowshoeing throughout the Valley, rentals, equipment, lessons, guides and supplies are abundant throughout the entire area.


This recreation / lifestyle information provided courtesy of ArkansasValleyLiving. The photos are provided courtesy of Luke Urbine with Arkansas Valley Digital Imaging.

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