Sample Day by Day Itinerary of Fun While Visiting Salida, Colorado

Our Staff's Favorite Recommendations

We put these sample itineraries together so you can get an idea of all the things you can do during your visit to Salida, Colorado. Pick your favorites and run with it!

BUDGET ADVENTURE

Sunshine & Savings Weekend

Est. $50–$120 / person (excl. lodging)

DAY 1 — Hit the Trail

  • Coffee and fuel up at Romeo’s— locally loved, easy on the wallet
  • Hike the Tenderfoot Mountain loop (S Mountain) — free, 360° views of the whole valley and a big ‘S’ you can see from town
  • Cool off with a swim at Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center — world’s largest indoor hot springs pool, only $10
  • Evening pints at Soulcraft Brewing — great patio, great vibes, great prices

DAY 2 — River & Wheels

  • Rent bikes from Absolute Bikes and ride the Arkansas Riverwalk Trail — flat, gorgeous, free trail or try out some of the mountain
  • Pack a picnic lunch from Safeway or Natural Grocers and eat riverside at Riverside Park
  • Walk the free art galleries on F Street — Salida has over 150 working artists and rotating exhibits
  • Dinner at Moonlight Pizza — large portions and-friendly prices

DAY 3 — Browns Canyon

  • Early morning hike at Browns Creek Falls — free, stunning high desert canyon scenery pack a lunch
  • Grab dinner at Mo Burrito and enjoy a stroll on the Monarch Spur trail

Day 4 Continental Divide views

  • Drive to the top of Monarch Pass — free, windswept views at 11,312 ft — totally worth it
  • Enjoy a picnic on the continental divide trail
  • Grab a bite from one of our many food trucks

Day 5 Rainbow trail

  • Explore a section of the 113 mile rainbow trail, easily accessible from Poncha pass
  • Or travel to St Elmo a historical mining site

Day 6 Sand Dunes

  • Pack a lunch and make the trip to the Sand Dunes National park,
  • Enjoy dinner at the Boathouse with seating on the Arkansas River

SPLURGE & SAVOR

The Peak Experience

Est. $400–$700+ / person (excl. lodging)

Stock up on all the gear youll need this week at Salida Mountainsports and 7000 Feet running

DAY 1 — Whitewater Welcome

  • Half-day Arkansas River rafting with Salida River Adventures — the Browns Canyon stretch is legendary (~$95–$130/person)
  • Post-river recovery lunch at The Boathouse— Freshly prepared burgers with views of the Arkansas River
  • Massage or body treatment at Tula’s Well wellness studio — you earned it
  • Sunset dinner reservation at Shavano farm to table creative plates, incredible atmosphere

DAY 2 — Summit the 14er

  • Guided summit of Mt. Shavano or Mt. Antero with a local guiding company — one of Colorado’s most rewarding 14ers
  • Recovery soak at Mt Princeton Hot Springs
  • Enjoy homemade pasta at Lago in downtown Salida
  • Stargazing night — Salida has minimal light pollution and some of the best dark skies in Colorado

DAY 3 — Jeep & Art

  • 4×4 backcountry Jeep tour into the Collegiate Peaks — wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, no paved roads required
  • Create a special piece of jewelry at Riviting Experience
  • Farewell brunch at Biker and the Baker— amazing roof top experience

Day 4 Mt Princeton Hot SPrings

Day 5 Zip lining

Day 6 Shop our local galleries and gift shops

Budget-Friendly Bliss

Come Stay in Salida with Us Today!

Check out room types, amenity details, bed sizes and kitchen types through our booking link below.