Chaffee County
Looking for things to do near Buena Vista Colorado? Chaffee County is 82% public land — a gorgeous, wide-open Colorado wilderness that resides just minutes away from your door. Hiking, biking, skiing, and more await you in Chaffee County. At the heart of it all is the Arkansas River, and just six miles from the cabins you’ll find the entrance to Browns Canyon, a world-renowned whitewater rafting section. Whether you’re mountaineering, chasing rapids, or casting a line, this is one of the most beautiful and adventure-rich corners of the Rockies, full of year-round outdoor activities near Buena Vista. From fishing and hiking to biking and soaking in a private hot spring, this guide covers the best things to do near Buena Vista Colorado. Antero Hot Spring Cabins is the perfect home base for the ambitious vacationer.
World-Class Outdoor Adventures: Things to Do Near Buena Vista Colorado
Most of the mountain activities you can imagine are available minutes from your door. Book a guided tour:
- Fishing: UpRiver Fly Fishing Buena Vista
- Whitewater rafting & kayaking: RMOC & River Runners
- Hiking: Trailhead Buena Vista
- Mountain biking: Absolute Bikes
- Skiing: Monarch & Ski Cooper
- Snowmobiling: Monarch Snowmobiling, Burandts Backcountry Adventure
- Mountaineering: Buena Vista Mountain Adventures
Prefer to explore on your own? Find maps and recreation area recommendations at the Salida Chamber of Commerce and AHRA.
The Sawatch Mountain Range
The Sawatch Mountain Range surrounds the cabins, home to alpine lakes, 14ers, the famous Collegiate Peaks, and miles of scenic trails. The cabins are nestled between two 14ers, Mt. Princeton (14,197′) and Mt. Antero (14,269′). Putting you in the best location to explore Colorado’s twenty-five tallest peaks.
Hiking & Trails
The legendary Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail are just up the road; you can explore the maps by clicking on the trail names.
St. Elmo Ghost Town
Twelve miles west of the cabins is St. Elmo, a historic ghost town from Colorado’s mining boom and a trailhead for both winter and summer adventures. From here, 4-wheel drive roads fan out in every direction, offering endless options for hiking or off-roading.
Horseback Riding
Princeton Riding Stables is just down the road, offering exceptional trail rides through the local terrain.
Winter Sports
- Monarch Ski & Snowboard Area — 45 minutes southwest
- Summit County & Vail ski areas — about 1 hour 30 minutes north
- Snowmobile trails – in the area are endless and well-maintained, great for motorheads and ski tourers alike
