Explore Buena Vista, Colorado
Buena Vista is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts with something for everyone! Outdoor activities include rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, dirt biking, skiing, and snowmobiling. Other options include fly fishing, backpacking, hiking, hot springs, and access to epic 14ers in the Collegiate Peaks range.
Collegiate Peaks Wilderness
Collegiate Peaks Wilderness was designated by the United States Congress in 1980 and it now has a total of 167,584 acres. With eight "fourteeners" (peaks exceeding 14,000 feet in elevation), Collegiate Peaks Wilderness possesses the highest average elevation of any Wilderness in the Lower 48. The eight 14ers in the range are amazing hikes, yet are quite popular. There are many opportunities in the range for solitude as well. There are amazing opportunities for fishing, backpacking, and hiking throughout the range. Downloading the Hiking Project app is a great resource to look at trails.
Mountain Biking
A matter of years ago, Buena Vista was not known for mountain biking and it is now one of the top mountain biking destinations in the state with some of the best bike purpose built trail around. Out the backdoor from BV Overlook are two connected bike trail systems. Midland is the closest trail system to the property with everything from mellow to extreme trails. Unchained is the most epic advanced trail around at Midland. Adjacent to Midland is the Whipple trail system, which is adjacent to downtown Buena Vista. Vitamin B is a great flow trail worth riding. There are multiple ways to connect the trail systems for a big ride and you can grab lunch in town if you do. Also nearby is the Monarch Crest trail, considered to be of the all-time classic rides in North America. MTB Project offers a great map of the local trails.
Hot Springs
Buena Vista has multiple hot springs to explore and enjoy. Mount Princeton Hot Springs is the most popular hot spring in the area and is a quick 10-20 minute drive from downtown. Inquire at the BV Overlook office to see if we can currently provide discounted tickets. Cottonwood Hot Springs is also a great hot spring and is less commercialized. We find that each hot spring is a good fit for different groups, so ask at our office for a recommendation on what is best for you!
White Water Rafting
The Arkansas River, and specifically the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, is one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The river stretches across 152 miles, descending an impressive 4,650 feet. Boaters can encounter a range of rapids, including both intense Class IV and V sections, as well as gentler Class II and III areas suitable for beginners and families. We recommend booking with Browns Canyon Rafting, a family and guide operated Colorado whitewater company. Browns Canyon Rafting offers half day, full day, and overnight guided trips that are suitable for all skill levels.
Fly Fishing
Buena Vista is one of the most coveted fishing areas in state. The Arkansas and Taylor Rivers are quite popular, but for a good reason. There are many mountain streams and lakes to explore up and down the Arkansas Valley, in the Sawatch, and in Taylor Park. The CPW State Fishing Map is a great resource for researching fishing locations.
Rock Climbing
Most skilled rock climbers coming to Buena Vista already know where the goods are. There is even quite a bit of amazing bouldering around the KOA property to explore. However, now there is newly built Via Ferrata that fits all skill levels of climbers. The Granite Via Ferrata offered by AVA has climbers take two zip-lines to get to the course (pictured). For the rock climbing enthusiast, Mountain Project offers a great overview of the local zones and routes.
Dirt Biking
Long loop routes with multiple high passes can be run near St. Elmo. Tin Cup, Tomichi, Williams and Hancock passes (Hancock open only in August) can be combined for an amazing day of riding. Carnage Canyon, Elephant Rock, and the Rainbow Trail are the local favorites. For a general map of roads. The general area around Buena Vista is called Fourmile. Friends of Fourmile have created a great map for OHV users.
Ski at Monarch Mountain
BV Overlook is a short 45 minute away from the ski resort, Monarch Mountain. Monarch Mountain is know for it’s beautiful views and minimal crowds and is loved by locals and visitors. Monarch Mountain has 54 trails and 2 terrain parks with options for all ski levels! Visit the Monarch Mountain website to learn about ticket prices, rentals, and more.
Winter Activities
Buena Vista is known for its skiing without the crowds located between Monarch Mountain and Ski Cooper. The Sawatch range also has amazing backcountry skiing that is typically much less traveled. Buena Vista is a great place to take an AIARE Avalanche course with Buena Vista Mountain Adventures (BVMA). BVMA is also the leading guide company for backcountry skiing, splitboarding, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing tours. When you book a trip with BVMA, you will receive a code for 10% off your stay with us at BV Overlook.