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Writer's pictureSamantha Hruska

Your Guide to All Things Buena Vista

In Buena Vista incredible adventure awaits. From the clear blue skies, majestic mountains, and raging rivers, Buena Vista is a must-see destination this summer. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or just want a weekend getaway, this spot is perfect for you. Buena Vista is a spectacular place to make life-long memories and it’s just a 3-hour drive from Boulder. I spent the weekend there, and I am already planning my next trip back. This is your guide to all things Buena Vista.


What to Do

Visit Mt. Princeton Resort. It has three different mineral pools, a sauna, and you can’t miss the famous Hot Springs. Relax to the sound of the rushing creek as you sit on its shallow shores. Soak up the healing heat of the creekside spring. Your body will sing with joy in the bubbly water and you’ll never want to leave.

Insider Tip: Double Check Before You Visit. Sometimes water levels are too high and it is important to stay safe!


Do you like ghosts? Have you dreamed of living in the Old West? Well, Saint Elmo’s is a must-see for you. Saint Elmo’s was originally named Forest City but it was changed a couple of years ago because it was already a city in California- The Post Office wanted to eliminate confusion! Gold was discovered there, which drew in lots of miners and businessmen. As a result, the town became a spot for trade and services. As time wore on, residents slowly dwindled until 1926, when the train station was closed for good. The last train left the station and no one ever came back. Saint Elmo’s aged over the years and became the ghost town we now know today.


Take a trip to the past! Every week the theater has a new showing. Comanche plays films newly released to the public such as Jurassic World, Top Gun, and more. As the sky dims and the stars come out, the staff play fun tunes to celebrate nights at the drive-in. Snack on classic treats like popcorn, pretzels, and hot dogs. This is a perfect nighttime activity for everyone. Whether you’re a couple looking for some romance, a family wanting quality bonding time, or friends wanting some giggles, the Comanche Drive-In provides opportunities for all.


Colorado’s rafting season is upon us. Here from May to October, the time is now to try the expenditure or relive an old favorite. Buena Vista offers events ranging from beginner rapids to multiple-day trips. Rafting is the ideal way to spend a scorching summer day. The mist from the river or just being on the water is a great way to cool off. Subsequently, rafting is the ultimate bonding activity. Soaring down the Arkansas river, working together as a team, and being on one boat is an excellent family or friend activity.


Make a new fluffy friend as you explore the flawless beauty of Buena Vista. The horseback riding through Mount Princeton has guided tours every day and offers a variety of scenic routes. Family rides, more-experienced rides, and first-time rides are some of the many options offered. Go further on a four-legged friend beside the Arkansas River to explore the National Forest surrounding Buena Vista, and absorb the mountain scents and sounds of nature.


Create lasting memories and view stunning summits of Buena Vista with infinite hiking trails. The waterfalls, lush greens, and rock formations will blow your socks off. There are varying levels of difficulty and lengths of trails ranging from simple 1-mile trails to 14-ers. Some famous trails to try are the Agnes Vaille Fall Trails and the Rainbow Trail. Agnes Vaille Fall Trails is the ideal hike for beginners, those who want something quick, and a trip that showcases a variety of nature scenes. This trail is approximately 1 mile and will take about an hour to complete. It will lead you past ravishing rock formations and a winding creek to a lovely waterfall. Plus, if you are lucky, you might get the chance to see some mountain goats. Rainbow Trail is a 4.8-mile hike, so give yourself about 3-4 hours to complete. The Rainbow Trail trail might be lengthier and trickier, but the views are worth it. Make sure to pack hiking boots or shoes that provide you with ultimate stability because the path is constructed to be single-file and contains loose rocks. The landscapes that come with this adventure include meadows for picnics, Aspen forests, and breathtaking ridges.




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