Mandy & Raj
Things To Do
Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Mandy has been coming here since she was little and Raj will call this the most magical place in the area... come here to relax and enjoy the authentic hot springs experience. We recommend indulging in the services that the Spa offers, including massages, facials, access to all of the pools and the streams that the hotel has to offer.
River Runners at Browns Canyon
This place has amazing whitewater rafting and kayaking! Plus, it is conveniently located right in South Main. There are many other places to try this in town and in Johnson City (Noah's Ark is a close second) but whatever you do make sure you take some time to spend on the Arkansas River!
Barbara Whipple Trail and Sleeping Indian Hike
Make sure to do some hiking on the Sleeping Indian (named by the BV settlers... not us!). The Barbara Whipple has beautiful views of the town and Mt. Princeton and if you are feeling really adventurous make sure to go all the way up! Note that the hike to the top is not a "jaunt"... its pretty challenging (so challenging that Raj has yet to summit!). Make sure to bring some water and your climbing shoes.
Leadville
Come here for the true CO-old-mining-town experience!
Salida
This place used to be known as "the only place nearby to go to Walmart," but over the past few decades it has blossomed into a beautiful town for young artists. Enjoy the local galleries, coffee at Cafe Dawn or bike the famous Salida biking trails.
Quincys
The best steak dinner $10 can buy! Yes, they may only have one item on the menu, but after a long day of hiking this meal is definitely what you need. The margaritas are pretty delicious too...
Buena Vista Roastery Cafe
Our favorite coffee in town (though The Midland Stop is a close second)... yes, you may wait 20 min for a latte but its worth it! Try their specialty lattes... they are amazing!
Eddyline Restaurant at South Main
The best brewery in town! Also try the pizza... its delicious!
Mount Yale
If you're feeling ambitious, and the smaller trails are not challenging enough... try this 14er hike! Make sure to bring lots of water and snacks (and inhalers, etc.). You may even want to give yourself a couple of days to acclimate to the altitude (14,000 feet is no joke!) Maybe you'll get farther than I ever have (don't ask Renee about not making it to the top...she'll never forgive me).
Harvard City Riding Stables
This is another fun way to see explore the area. There are a bunch of different horseback riding companies, this one our family has used in the past. Harvard City Riding Stables welcomes riders of all experience levels!
Monarch Crest Tramway
Visit the oldest working tramway in Colorado, taking you to views up to 12,000 feet. Get a beautiful "bird's eye view" of the Colorado Rockies. Apparently, on a clear day you can see from the Continental divide all the way to Pikes Peak!