The Mountains are Calling: My Top 5 Things to do in Buena Vista, CO

Ever been to the mountains? If not, we recommend it. Endless outdoor activities, friendly locals, and care free vibes make Buena Vista, CO the place to visit #BV #smalltownvibes #adventureiseverywhere 

There is something indescribable and restorative about going to visit the mountains. I just returned from staying with friends who live in beautiful Buena Vista, CO, located about two and a half hours south west of Denver, nestled underneath the collegiate peaks. Life is slower in mountain towns; there is always time for that second cup of coffee, or a long walk with a beloved friend. Yet these towns also have endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts; rafting, hiking, mountain biking, and horse-back riding, to name a few. Folks that live in these towns are kind, unassuming, and adventurous. If you never get the chance to visit “BV,” I would highly encourage keeping your days unscheduled and spontaneous. Breathe as much mountain air into your lungs as you can, smile and wave at locals, and make sure to catch the sunset every night.

Here are the top 5 things to do in Buena Vista, CO:

-Eat an early morning breakfast at the Evergreen Cafe and get anything that includes salsa and eggs, its fresh made at a local mexican restaurant, later in the day, re-caffeinated with a dirty hippie (a Chai latte with a shot of espresso) at The Roastery.

-Raft the Arkansas river using Noah’s Ark White Water Rafting. Friendly staff, great guides, and lots of trips for different experience levels.

-Hike Mt. Princeton. This “fourteener,” located in the San Isabel National Forest, is easily accomplished in a day and the views are incredible. Start early in the morning to catch the sunrise, and avoid the mid-day sun. 

-Get drinks and listen to live music at The Lariat. Locals refer to this recently renovated bar and grill as “The Rope.” It often hosts live music and open mic nights, and boasts good, cheap beer. It’s a place to mingle with locals or enjoy the company of friends, late into the night.

-take a soak in the Mt Princeton Hot Springs Resort. Only open seasonally, but well worth the visit whether you decide to go to the natural rock pools at Chalk Creek, or the naturally heated and odorless pools at Historic Bath House. Go last night and lounge in the pools and sit in awe at the dazzling stars above.