The best cycling routes in Saguache County

One of the biggest indoor hot spring spas in the US, with adjacent Skate Park and a museum with visitor center.

The Monarch Spur Trail runs for 2.5 miles between the Arkansas River in downtown Salida west to the end of the railroad right-of-way near County Road 120. The trail provides access from town to city parks, playing fields and neighborhoods, with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains along the way

The Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center offers a unique blend of recreation and relaxation in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. As one of the largest indoor hot springs facilities in the country, the Aquatic Center features naturally-heated mineral water piped in from the nearby mountains. You’ll find a spacious lap pool for swimming and aquatic fitness, plus a warmer leisure pool perfect for soaking and playing. Private soaking pools can be booked for a tranquil escape to recover after a day on the trails. For updated hours, rates, and special programs like water fitness classes and swim lessons, check https://www.cityofsalida.com/aquaticcenter

Salida is a great stop along the Great Divide Trail and a good base for shorter bike excursions. The beautiful mountain town is located in the heart of the Rockies in central Colorado. Downtown Salida is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Due to the cool summers and relatively mild winters, the area around Salida is nicknamed the "banana belt" of Colorado. The attractive city has a charming downtown with well-restored historical buildings, as well as many art galleries. Old town is located on the edge of the Arkansas, which makes it particularly pleasant, with car-free access to lush riverside parks.

The Salida River Trail is a popular walking and biking trail just a few blocks north of the Historic downtown. This attractive trail parallels the Arkansas River, where you can often see whitewater rafters and kayakers in the summer months. This northern section runs along two small lakes as well.

The Salida Museum preserves, safeguards and displays significant artifacts of Salida and Central Colorado. Exhibits include pretty much everything about Salida history, beginning around 1880, when Salida was founded and became a major railroad center. The museum is staffed by volunteers who are passionate about preserving the past. Summer hours are generally noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, and winter hours are noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. At other times a volunteer may be available on “off days” by calling 719- 539 -3139. to accommodate folks who are interested in learning about Salida history. https://salidamuseum.org

The Salida River Trail is a popular walking and biking trail just a few blocks north of the Historic downtown. This attractive trail parallels the Arkansas River, where you can often see whitewater rafters and kayakers in the summer months.

Poncha Springs is a tiny town just west of Salida, Colorado. Although there are not many facilities here, there is the Poncha Market, a hidden-gem where you can purchase drinks, snacks, and sandwiches at Mabel's Deli (located in the market) to refuel, and a cool town hall (in the old historic school house) where there are bathrooms you can use.