Salida

Salida, which means exit in Spanish, is coincidentally entrance to some of Colorado's highest country. It's surrounded by a dozen of the state's 58 14ers — mountains that are more than 14,000 feet high. A handful of excellent mountain-bike trails and countless hiking trails cross the region, giving access to four national forests. And, naturally, some visitors want to climb some of those 14ers in the Collegiate Peaks north of town. In winter, visit the nearby Monarch Mountain ski area for a taste of what those 14ers have to offer. The Arkansas River runs through the historic downtown and is the site of the annual FibArk (First in Boating on the Arkansas) Festival held here each summer. Kayaks, tubes and rafts are common sights on the river. Other water attractions include the indoor Salida Hot Springs Pool. In the winter, the town is crowned with a giant lighted Christmas tree on a hillside overlooking the community. Salida is one of the stops along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic & Historic Byway, and the town is just a short drive from Browns Canyon National Monument, the state's newest monument.