The Colorado mountain towns of Salida and Buena Vista are nestled in the beautiful Arkansas River Valley, literally in the "Heart of the Rockies," about 2 hours from Colorado Springs and 2.5 hours from Denver. Our towns are a welcoming Western retreat for everyone, from the solo outdoors adventure-seeker to families who wish to ‘Play and Stay’ in the glorious Rocky Mountains.  Chaffee County has more 14,000 -ft mountains than any county in the state and the Gold Medal Arkansas River provides outstanding fishing, rafting, kayaking, and SUPing.  The mountains offer miles of beautiful hiking and biking trails.  Wintertime brings snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling.  Salida and Buena Vista are growing towns with galleries, musical venues, and many seasonal festivals.  No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you will find something to make your stay a memorable one!  And in your spare time  . . . join us on our pickleball courts for some pickleball fun!