Vail, Colorado

A- Overview:
Internationally known for its incomparable world-class skiing and riding, the Vail Valley additionally offers an exciting nightlife, unique shops, gourmet dining and nonstop outdoor adventure, summer or winter.

Vail Mountain, 100 miles west of Denver, is larger than nearly every other North American ski area, and is linked by a well-placed network of lifts and trails. There are 1,220 acres of varied runs on the front side, and the existence of the Back Bowls make Vail a skier’s heaven. Those same slopes provide the perfect trails for mountain bike devotees in summer. The village hosts a wide variety of festivals year round.

Consistently ranked the country’s most popular ski resort by skiers and ski magazines almost since its inception, Vail has the look of a Tyrolean village and is visited regularly by almost as many Europeans as Americans. This gives its restaurants, hotels, and shops a continental air.

Two people with a vision planned what has become Vail. They were Pete Seibert, 10th Mountain Division veteran and Earl Eaton, a uranium prospector who had grown up in area’s wild ranges. In 1957 they climbed to the summit of the mountain now known as Vail and discovered a skier’s dream: the Back Bowls; 4,000 acres of open glades. (The Bowls had been formed unintentionally, centuries earlier, when the Ute Indians set “spite fires” to the timberland in retaliation for being driven out by ranchers and miners). Through the efforts of Seibert and Eaton, the fabulous Vail resort was created.

Vail is an excellent example of integrated mountain and village design. The development is divided into the residential East Vail, upscale Vail Village, and the more modest Lionshead.

The satellite ski area of Beaver Creek, developed in the 1980’s, has become a substantial resort in its own right. Beaver Creek’s strength is that it is one of the best ski areas in America for lower intermediates. The linking of Beaver Creek’s trail system with that of neighboring Arrowhead Resort and with Bachelor Gulch, a new area between the two, has added 30% more novice and intermediate terrain to the area and created a European-style “village-to-village” ski experience.

Spring and summer at Vail bring a wealth of new opportunities. The mountain streams and lakes provide superb fishing, canoeing, rafting, and the ski trails open for mountain biking. Horseback riding in the rugged backcountry is another seasonal favorite, as are hiking, golf, balloon rides and tennis. These activities unfold against the spectacular backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, which are so striking in their beauty and grandeur that the first glimpse of them at each visit to Vail literally takes one’s breath away.

The Rockies, Vail, the surrounding White River National Forest, all provide peak esthetic and recreational experiences. All are ready and waiting to welcome you and your family year round.

B- City Information:
Population: Vail: 3,700

Elevation: 8,150 ft.

Time Zone: Mountain Time zone: (When it is 11:00am in New York City; it is 9:00am in Vail) Daylight saving time is observed from April-October)

Weather: 303-398-3964 for hourly updates

Average Temperatures:

Month
High
Low

January
35F
17F

February
42F
23F

March
53F
30F

April
65F
40F

May
75F
49F

June
86F
57F

July
93F
64F

August
89F
62F

September
81F
54F

October
67F
43F

November
50F
28F

December
38F
20F

When to Go

If you’re a skier, you will want to spend as much time as possible on the slopes in Vail. Vail’s snow has a reputation for being some of the lightest and fluffiest anywhere. Whether or not you are a skier, you may also wish to visit this breathtakingly beautiful country when temperatures are warmest and wildflowers are at their peak in July and August. In summer, more and more ski areas are opening their chairlifts to mountain bikers. There are numerous trails winding through the mountain passes. Bargain rates are often available in spring and fall, but the weather is especially uncertain at that time, and there may be unexpected snow. snow. September is a favorite time to visit when the changing aspen leaves turn the hillsides to gold.

Weather: Northwest Colorado is a place of sudden weather changes. One minute it may be sunny and the next, snowing, and later raining. Summer attractions may even be closed due to snow. Most mountain towns shut down after the ski season until mid-June and again from Labor Day until the new ski season starts. Always call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Sunscreen is essential at high altitudes.

Business Hours

Most banks are open from 10 to 4 Monday through Friday. Many are open for several hours on Saturday. Most businesses in Vail are open Monday through Saturday, from 9 or 10 AM to 6 or 9 PM. Many others, including shopping centers, are also open Sunday from noon to 5 or later.

Arriving in the United States

contact the U.S. Customs Service inquiries, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229, 202/927-6724

Electricity

The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Foreign visitors traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

Emergencies

Ambulance 911. Fire 911. Police 911.

Hospital Emergency Rooms

Vail Valley Medical Center 181 W. Meadow Dr., Vail, 970/476-2452.

Telephones The country code for the United States is 1. The area code for Vail is 970.

Tipping

At restaurants, a 15% tip is standard for waiters; up to 20% may be expected at more expensive establishments. The same is true for taxi drivers, bartenders, and hairdressers.

Church Services:

The Chapel at Beaver Creek

33 Elk Track Road, Beaver Creek

845-9449

Mount of The Holy Cross Lutheran Church

19 Vail Road, Vail

476-6610

Trinity Baptist Church

The Chapel at Beaver Creek

33 Elk Track Road, Beaver Creek

Vail Interfaith Chapel

19 Vail Road, Vail

Edwards Chapel

90 Lariat Loop, Edwards

476-1759

St. Clare of Assisi Parish

0053 Old County Ln., Edwards

926-2821

New Life Assembly of God

461 Main St., Minturn

827-4102

Edwards Chapel

90 Lariat Loop, Edwards

926-5707

Calvary Chapel

Berry Creek Middle School, Edwards

926-5860

Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration

Vail Inter-Faith Chapel

476-0618

Vail Interfaith Chapel

19 Vail Road, Vail

476-3347

Sanctuary International

4327 Streamside, East Vail

827-9770

Gracious Savior Lutheran Church

33520 Hwy. 6, Edwards

926-3550

Vail Bible Church

39209 Hwy. 6, Eagle-Vail

949-6585

St. Patrick’s Parish

476 Pine, Minturn

827-5784

Annointed Christian Fellowship

480 Nottingham Road, Avon

949-6188

Presbyterian Parish

191 Main St., Minturn

827-5547

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day last Mon. in May

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve Dec. 31.

Arriving By Air

The Vail Valley is served by Eagle County Regional Airport EGE Gypsum, 970/524-9490, 35 miles west of Vail. American, Continental, and America West fly here year-round, and during ski season, Delta, United, and Northwest offer nonstop flights from several gateway cities.

Flying times to Vail: 40 minutes from Denver, 2 1⁄2 hours from Dallas, 3 hours from Chicago, and 4 1⁄2 hours from Newark.

Transfers Between the Airport and Town

By Bus

Airport Transportation Service 970/476-7576, Colorado Mountain Express 970/949-4227 or 800/525-6353, and Vans to Vail 970/476-4467 or 800/222-2212 offer service from the airport into town.

By Car

From the airport, take Interstate 70 east 35 miles to Vail.

By Bus

Greyhound 800/231-2222 provides service from Denver to Vail.

By Car

The Vail Valley is 120 miles west of Denver on I-70, which bisects the state east to west take exits 173, 176, or 180. If you’re entering Colorado from the north or south, take I-25, which intersects with I-70 in Denver.

Getting Around

By Bus

Vail Transit 970/328-8143 has free buses throughout the Vail resort area. Avon Beaver

Creek Transit 970/949-6121 runs shuttles the length of the valley, daily, between 7 AM and 2:30 AM, every 20-30 minutes,

Road Conditions

For information on road conditions throughout the state of Colorado call 303/639-1111.

By Taxi

Vail Valley Taxi 970/476-8294.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
The ingredients of an unforgettable Vail Valley Vacation are many: the freedom to enjoy the slopes, snowshoe through the backcountry, unwind at one of the many spas or stay overnight in a secluded Yurt. Even if you don’t ski, there are many reasons to head to the Rocky Mountains for a memorable Vail Valley experience.

Sleigh Ride Dinners

4 Eagle Ranch (970) 926-3372 Winter horseback rides, sleigh rides and sleigh ride dinners.

Seasons at the Green/Steve Jones Sleigh rides. (970) 476-8057 Sleigh rides and sleigh ride dinners just 1.5 miles from Vail Village.

Snowmobile Tours

Timberline Tours (970) 476-1414 half day and full day snowmobiling tours

Nova Guides (970) 949-4232 snowmobile rentals, 1 hour, 2 hour, half day and full day snowmobiling tours, and dinner rides

Backcountry / Sno-cat Skiing

Hidden Treasure Yurt Backcountry yurt for nightly rental

Paragon Guides Guided Backcountry Skiing Trips (970) 926-5299

Nova Guides non-skiing backcountry snow-cat tours in White River National Forest.

Trail Wise Guides – Offers day skiing trips in the Colorado Backcountry.

Vail Snow Cat Tours – A full day backcountry powder skiing experience

Snowshoeing

Colorado Bike Service Snowshoe Rentals & Sales

Base Mountain Sports Snowshoe Rentals & Sales

Lazy J Ranch Daily guided snowshoeing adventures.

Paragon Guides Offers multi-day trips in the Colorado Backcountry.

Trail Wise Guides Offers day snowshoeing trips in the Colorado Backcountry.

Ice Skating

Dobson Ice Arena 970/479-2270

Beaver Creek Ice Rink 970/845-5248

Warm Weather Activities

Fishing and Paddleboats

Nottingham Lake (970) 949-4280

Piney River Ranch (970) 476-3941, rents canoes, small boats for fishing, and also supplies fly rods and waders.

Ballooning

Camelot Balloons (970) 926-2435

Mountain Balloon Adventures (970) 476-2553

Cattle Drives

For those who have always dreamed of joining a cattle drive: 4 Eagle Ranch (Exit 157 off I70) ; then 4 miles north on Colorado 131. (970) 926-3372. Also chuck wagon dinners and hayrides.

Golf

Usually mid-May to mid-October: Beaver Creek Resort Golf Course (970) 949-7123, designed by Robert Trent Jones

The Vail Golf Course (970) 479-2260

Eagle-Vail Golf Course (970) 949-5267 is a challenging course of 18 holes.

Hiking and Backpacking

Contact Holy Cross Ranger District Office: (970) 827-5715

Supplies and information: Vail Mountaineering (970) 476-4223

Horseback Riding

Spraddle Creek Ranch (970) 476-6941 specializes in family outings.

Beaver Creek Stables (970) 845-7770

Piney River Ranch (970) 476-3941

Jeep Tours

Nova Tours (970)949-4232 offers guided tours in 4 wheel drive vehicles.

Llama Treking

Paragon Guides (970) 926-5299 offers llama treks to groups and families. June-Sept. Trek lasts 3-6 days.

Mountain Biking

Visitors can take the Lionshead Gondola to Eagle’s Nest on Vail Mountain and rent mountain bikes and all accessories and ride the summer slopes, returning the bikes at the base of the gondola.

Check at the gondola for rates and names of rental shops.

River Rafting

The Eagle River is a favorite of white water rafters, especially during the Spring thaw. Gentle-rough rides are available.

Colorado River Runs (970) 653-4292, specializes in family rafting trips.

Nova Guides (970) 949-4232

Lakota River Guides (970) 476-RAFT

Betty Ford Alpine Garden

970 476-0103

In Ford Park, 1/4 mile east of main village, next to Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

Open before and after snow season: dawn to dusk

Admission free. Donation accepted

One of the highest alpine gardens in the world. Actually, it is three small gardens each with a different theme. The gardens are filled with over 2,000 vividly blooming plants.

All are in walking distance from the Vail Nature Center.

Colorado Ski Museum/ Ski Hall of Fame

231 South Frontage Road East in the Vail Village Transportation Center

970 476-1876

Tues-Sun 10-5 by appointment only in May and October.

Admission Free.

The museum gives the history of transportation across areas of snow and ice. Snow sports began in Colorado in the 1800’s and this museum makes the journey forward both entertaining and enlightening.

The Vail Wildlife Center

Guided tours daily 11-noon and 1-2

Recommended for ages 6 with good attention span or 7 and up

Located in a small hut directly in front of the gondola exit. Features interactive displays of wildlife and local flowering plants. Guided tours are offered twice a day.

For the whole family: there are two self-guided tours at which children can go at their own pace. They are indicated by signs: Eagle’s View and Lower Fireweed.

Tubing is also offered at this location from noon-10pm. Fee is per hour, including tube. Reduced fee for ages 12 and under.

Ice skating: Noon – 10pm same rates as tubing; includes skates.

Sledding: Noon to 10pm

Snowboard park and half pipes: 8:30am-10pm equipment rental and lessons available.

Vista Bahn and Wildwood Express Chairlifts

Vista Bahn chairlift begins at the base of the mountain in Vail Village and the Wildwood begins mid-mountain near the top of the Vista Bahn lift.

970 476-9090

Daily 10-4:30

Fee per person

Bike transport extra.

Ages 4 and up

Vista Bahn offers a high speed ride up Vail Mountain. From there you can catch the Wildwood Express lift to the top. Hiking and biking in season.

Wildwood Restaurant and Smokehouse are at the top.

Facilities

Beaver Creek: 4,040-ft vertical drop; 1,625 skiable acres; 27% beginner, 39% intermediate, 34% advanced; 6 high-speed quad chairs, 3 triple chairs, 4 double chairs, 1 surface lift.

Vail: 3,335-ft vertical drop; 4,644 skiable acres; 21% beginner, 31% intermediate, 48% advanced on the front side; 13% intermediate, 87% advanced in the back bowls; 1 gondola, 10 high-speed quad chairs, 1 regular quad, 3 triple chairs, 5 double chairs, 11 surface lifts.

Arrowhead: The mountain has a 1,700 foot vertical drop, from the 9,100 summit. Snowboarding is permitted. Open mid-December – April 9-3:30. (970) 926-3029 Fax: (970) 926-2321. Located 2 miles west of Beaver Creek on US 6, this is a small family oriented area. It has one high speed chairlift and a beginners surface lift, serving 15 runs for novices and intermediates. Another lift connects it with Beaver Creek Resort.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Betty Ford Alpine Garden

970 476-0103

In Ford Park, 1/4 mile east of main village, next to Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

Open before and after snow season: dawn to dusk

Admission free. Donation accepted

One of the highest alpine gardens in the world. Actually, it is three small gardens, each with a different theme. The gardens are filled with over 2,000 vividly blooming plants.

All are in walking distance from the Vail Nature Center.

Colorado Ski Museum/ Ski Hall of Fame

231 South Frontage Road East in the Vail Village Transportation Center

970 476-1876

Tues-Sun 10-5 by appointment only in May and October.

Admission Free.

The museum gives the history of transportation across areas of snow and ice. Snow sports began in Colorado in the 1800’s and this museum makes the journey forward both entertaining and enlightening. Children will be able to maintain interest at least long enough to enjoy the exhibits of early chairlifts and the former heavy equipment necessary to enjoy skiing.

Dobson Ice Arena

Across from the public library on West Meadow Drive

970 479-2270

Telephone for public skating schedule

Closed mid-May-mid-June. Skates available for rental

Admission charged

Skating is a popular activity in Vail. This indoor arena offers public skating in a large facility. Hockley games are also played here.

Ford Park and Gore Creek School

1/4 mile east of the main village, near the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

Free admission

A public park in a beautiful setting wirh playground equipment that children love. A one room school house is on display at one end of the park.

Eagle Bahn Gondola and Adventure Ridge

970 476-9090

Memorial Day-mid-June, weekends only.

Mid-June-mid-Sept: daily.

Admission charged.

Each car holds up to 6 people. The gondola offers a pleasant way to ride to the top of the mountain to enjoy the view, or to bike or hike back down. The scenery is breathtaking, and children consider it to be like an amusement park ride – but with far more esthetic and educational value.

Other attractions at Adventure Ridge are:

The Vail Wildlife Center

Guided tours daily 11-noon and 1-2

Recommended for ages 6 with good attention span or 7 and up

Located in a small hut directly in front of the gondola exit. Features interactive displays of wildlife and local flowering plants. Guided tours are offered twice a day.

For the whole family: there are two self-guided tours at which children can go at their own pace. They are indicated by signs: Eagle’s View and Lower Fireweed.

Tubing is also offered at this location from noon-10pm. Fee is per hour, including tube. Reduced fee for ages 12 and under.

Ice skating: Noon – 10pm same rates as tubing; includes skates.

Sledding: Noon to 10pm

Snowboard park and half pipes: 8:30am-10pm equipment rental and lessons available.

Piney River Ranch

Take Interstate 70 to the main Vail exit 176 and N. Frontage Rd. west one mile to Red Sandstone Road. Turn right into Red Sandstone, go straight at the third switchback and straight into Forest Service Road 700. Follow signs to Piney Lake.

Or: Round trip from Vail Transportation Center: FREE, on Ranch bus.

Summer activities: 10-5

Closed: early Spring- mid-June

Some snowmobiling in winter; most activities are June-Labor Day

Archery, fishing, crafts each has a fee ; horseshoes, volleyball, playground, petting farm, fly casting clinics, forest service talks each is free

Thursday is Family night out: Western style barbecue, western story tellers, lively music.

Pirate Ship Park

At the base of Vista Bahn ski lift

Ages 2-10

The centerpiece is a structure made to look like an old ship, complete with watchtower. Located next to the shops in Vail Village. Great for a break from shopping.

Vail Nature Center

831 Vail Drive

Daily 9-5

Donation requested

Small museum displaying animal pelts, stuffed birds and butterfly displays. The highlight is watching birds at feeders near the windows and checking their identity on a wall chart. There are easy , short trails to hike outside along the river.

Vail Public Library

292 West Meadow Drive

970 479-2185

Mon-Thurs 10-8 Fri. 10-6; Sat and Sun 11-6

Toddler story hour Tues and Wed 10am Preschool story hour Tues and Wed. 11am

Good haven for rainy days or even on sunny ones to add variety.

Vail Library has a separate glass enclosed room with educational toys, including a train set for toddlers and a playhouse for reading enjoyment. Children also have the use of up to date computers with internet child approved sites only access. Special children’s programs such as puppet making are sometimes held. Call to check on hours.

Vista Bahn and Wildwood Express Chairlifts

Vista Bahn chairlift begins at the base of the mountain in Vail Village and the Wildwood begins mid-mountain near the top of the Vista Bahn lift.

970 476-9090

Daily 10-4:30

Fee per person

Bike transport extra.

Ages 4 and up

Vista Bahn offers a high speed ride up Vail Mountain. From there you can catch the Wildwood Express lift to the top. Hiking and biking in season.

Wildwood Restaurant and Smokehouse are at the top.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Annual Events

Spring

March:

American Ski Classic (970) 949-1999 Highlights the Legends of Skiing Competition, honoring past national and world ski champions.

April:

A Taste Of Vail 970/926-1494 showcases the area’s superlative restaurants.

Summer

In July

From late June- early August Vail sponsors the Bravo! Colorado Music Festival, with visiting symphony and chamber orchestras and performers. Music ranges from classical orchestra and chamber music to vocal and pops, baroque to modern jazz, ethnic performances, to youth concerts. 970/476-0206. Fax: (970) 479-0559.

Hot Summer Nights (970) 479-1999. Vail’s Ford Amphitheater hosts these concerts of contemporary rock and jazz Friday evenings in July and August.

August:

Vail International Festival Of Dance 970/949-1999hosts ballet and modern dance performers from around the world in the alpine splendor of the Ford Outdoor Amphitheater.

Winter

December

Vail Festival Of Lights 970/479-2100 has brilliant lighting displays, world cup ski competitions, and Christmas ice skating demonstrations.

Lessons and Programs

The ski schools at Vail and Beaver Creek are well known throughout the country with several specialty classes and children’s programs. For more information, call the Vail and Beaver Creek Ski School tel. 970/476-3229.

Lift Tickets

Multiday tickets for up to seven days are available, although per-day savings are minimal. Tickets are good at both Vail and Beaver Creek, as well as at Breckenridge and Keystone.

Rentals

Breeze Ski Rentals, with four locations in the Vail/Beaver Creek area, offers full rental packages for single or for multi-day rentals. Call tel. 800/525-0314 for advance reservations.

Backcountry Skiing

The 10th Mountain Hut and Trail System reaches far into Vail’s backcountry; one route continues to Aspen. Maps, equipment, and other information are available and hut reservations should be made at least a month in advance by calling tel. 970/925-5775. If you aren’t familiar with the trail system, hiring a guide is highly recommended.

Track Skiing

To reach Beaver Creek’s cross-country trail network, McCoy Park tel. 970/845-5313, you must ride the Strawberry Park chair lift. Trail fee charged. Lessons, rentals, and snowshoe tours are available through the Vail ski school tel. 970/476-3229.

Other Activities

The Activities Desk of Vail tel. 970/476-9090 or the Beaver Creek Resort Concierge tel. 970/949-9090 can arrange a variety of activities, including dog sledding, hot-air ballooning, and Sno-Cat skiing.

Bobsledding

Vail’s on-mountain bobsled run, a 2,900-ft course, begins below Mid-Vail the large restaurant about halfway up the mountain. are still possible. The sleds hold up to four people.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobile tours are conducted at Piney River Ranch 970/476-9090, just north of Vail. Rates include helmets, snowmobile suits, and boots, and sometimes meals.

Telluride, Colorado

A- Overview:
What makes a vacation in Telluride so outstanding? The experience begins with the journey itself. Whether driving or flying, travel to Telluride includes breathtaking views and spectacular scenery. Direct flights to an airport located just 10 minutes from town, smooth and scenic roads, and in-town transportation are just a few of the conveniences.

A remote boomtown established at an elevation of 8745 feet in the heyday of Colorado’s gold and silver mining era, the Town of Telluride was incorporated in 1878. Unlike other ski resorts, Telluride has never lost its Old West characteristics. Just five blocks wide and eight blocks long, it is filled with colorful Victorian homes, clapboard storefronts, boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, gourmet restaurants, and historic buildings. Great care has been given to the renovation of old saloons, general stores, and icehouses. Some have been converted into elegant restaurants, western boutiques, and fine art galleries. All have retained their authenticity.

Present day Telluride is home to the Telluride Ski Resort, and there is a new sophistication to the town. By day, its slope-side location makes it the ideal ski-in/ski-out mountain town with everything within walking distance. By evening, charming restaurants, galleries, and night -spots are gathering places for guests and locals alike.

Telluride is known for its summer and winter outdoor recreational opportunities, its venues for visual and performing arts, its internationally acclaimed music and film festivals, and other sport and cultural events.

Telluride is nestled in the spectacular San Juan range of the Rocky Mountains approximately 100 miles from Four Corners (the intersection of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah). It is a dynamic community and a place of incomparable natural beauty.

In addition to excellent skiing and snowboarding, there are many other great activities for skiers and for non-skiers. Some favorites are snowmobiling and snowshoeing, dog sled tours and sleigh rides, ice climbing, ice skating, and visits to Thrill Hill, an outdoor activity center that offers tubing, snowbiking, and snowskating.

Hike or mountain bike in the spectacular high country in and around Telluride, or try mountain and rock climbing, backpacking, and camping. A car is not needed in Telluride as everything is within walking distance. Additionally, the Galloping Goose is available for a free ride within Telluride and “Dial a Ride” offers free transportation within Mountain Village.

A free gondola runs continuously from 7 a.m. to midnight (except during the off season) between Telluride and Mountain Village. The ride takes about 14 minutes with spectacular views and an optional stop at San Sophia station where passengers can visit the Nature Center in summer. The gondola accommodates pets, bicycles, skis, and passengers with disabilities.

Telluride hosts hundreds of events year round. Festivals include the MountainFilm Festival, the Bluegrass Festival, Wild West, Wine, Jazz, Blues & Brews Festivals, Chamber Festival, and the world renowned Telluride Film Festival. There are also the Mushroom Festival and the Nothing Festival, designed to prove that nothing compares to the festivals in Telluride. There are also sports events, the colorful Balloon Festival, seasonal celebrations, and Repertory Theatre.

Take a mountain hike, a dog sled or sleigh ride, a Jeep tour, or a ride on the Durango-Silverton narrow gauge railroad. Enjoy excellent fishing, paragliding and balloon rides. You can even view the area from the back of a horse. In Telluride there’s something unique for visitors of every age. For children there are seasonal camps and children’s recreational programs. There are special programs from the Nature Environmental Center, the Telluride Youth Center, and there are regularly scheduled family-friendly events.

Art, antiques, housewares, clothing, sporting goods, gifts, and crafts are available at Telluride’s varied shops.
Mealtimes are always enjoyable with a full array of excellent dining opportunities from elegant to casual. A vacation at Telluride is a dream come true!

B- City Information:
Population: 2,221

Elevation: 8,792

Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time with Daylight Saving Time from April-October.

When it is noon in New York City; it is 10:00 AM in Telluride.

Average Temperatures:

Month
High
Low

January
38F
12F

February
43F
17F

March
51F
24F

April
60F
30F

May
69F
36F

June
80F
43F

July
83F
51F

August
82F
49F

September
75F
42F

October
64F
32F

November
53F
23F

December
39F
13F

When to Visit Telluride

In spring and fall, the weather is unpredictable, but rates drop and the crowds are gone. Spring is a good time for fishing, rafting, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. In Fall, the fish are spawning and the angling is excellent.

Summer begins in late June or early July. Days are warm, with highs in the 80s, and nighttime temperatures falling to the 40s and 50s. Winter arrives in during November, and deep snows cover the mountains and valleys by December. Temperatures are just above freezing by day and below zero at night. Winter tapers off in March, though snow lingers into April on valley bottoms and into July on mountain passes.

Telluride Slope Summary

Summit Elevation – 10,822 feet

Base Elevation – 8,793 feet

Vertical Rise – 2,029 feet

Lifts – 11 Total

Total Ski/Ride Terrain – 1,700 acres

Snowmaking – 250 acres
Number of Trails – 85

Longest Run – Galloping Goose – 4.6 miles

Pipes and Parks – 2 terrain parks

Holidays

New Year’s Day (Jan. 1)

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day (3rd Mon. in Jan.)

President’s Day (3rd Mon. in Feb.)

Memorial Day (last Mon. in May)

Independence Day (July 4)

Labor Day (1st Mon. in Sept.)

Thanksgiving Day (4th Thurs. in Nov.)

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (Dec. 24 and 25)

New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31).

Ambulance ( 911).

Fire ( 911).

Police ( 911).

Tips: At restaurants, a 15% tip is standard for waiters; up to 20% may be expected at more expensive establishments. The same goes for taxi drivers, bartenders, and hairdressers.

Safety

Many trails are at high altitudes, where oxygen is scarce. You may find yourself alone on a trail, so it is important to be prepared. Hikers and bikers should carry emergency supplies in their backpacks. Proper equipment includes a flashlight, a compass, waterproof matches, a first-aid kit, a knife, and a light plastic tarp for shelter. Backcountry skiers should add a repair kit, a blanket, an avalanche beacon, and a lightweight shovel to their lists. Always bring extra food and a canteen of water as dehydration is a common occurrence at high altitudes. Never drink from streams or lakes, unless you boil the water first or purify it with tablets.

Altitude

You may find yourself breathing heavily at high elevations. It takes a few days to get used to the rise in elevation. It is easy, in Colorado, to climb to 12,000 ft and higher while driving. The remedy for altitude-related discomfort is to go down quickly, into heavier air.

Wild Animals

When in any park, respect the territorial rights of all animals, and never attempt to feed them. Photograph from a distance, bringing the subject closer through use of a lens.

Telephone:

The country code for the United States is 1. The area code for Telluride is 970.

Business Hours

Most retail stores are open from 9 or 9:30 AM until 6 or 7 PM daily in downtown locations and until 9 or 10 in suburban shopping malls and in resort towns during high season. Downtown stores sometimes stay open later Thursday night. Normal banking hours are: weekdays 9-5; some branches are also open on Saturday morning.

Arriving in the United States: For customs information, contact the U.S. Customs Service, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229

Electricity

The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Foreign visitors traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

Arriving by Air

Telluride Regional Airport,

1500 Last Dollar Road suite 1, Telluride, CO 81435
Telephone: (970) 728-5051. Fax (970) 728-0178.

Other regional airports include: Grand Junction (GJT), 128 miles north and Durango (DRO),120 miles southeast, (both 2.5 hours away).

International travelers fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) ( 303/342-2200; 800/247-2336, which is about a five-hour drive from Telluride. Connecting flights to Telluride are available.

Transfers Between the Airport and Town

Shuttles and rental cars are available at all airports.

By Taxi

Telluride Express (970/728-6667)

Driving
When entering Colorado from the south, U.S. 550, U.S. 160, and U.S. 666 lead to the Four Corners region. From the east or west, I-70 (U.S. 6) intersects U.S. 50 in Grand Junction; U.S. 50 runs south to the San Juans and Four Corners area. From the north, take I-25 to I-70 in Denver, for a long drive west to U.S. 50.

Telluride is 330 miles southwest of Denver. The route is scenic. The fastest is way is to take U.S. 285 south to U.S. 24 south to U.S. 50 west to Montrose. Take U.S. 550 south to Ridgway. From Ridgway, take Route 62 west to Placerville and Route 45 south to Telluride.

Summer driving times: Montrose – 1-1/2 hours
Durango or Grand Junction – 2-1/2 hours
Denver – 6-7 hours
Phoenix – 8-9 hours
Albuquerque – 5-6 hours

Getting Around Telluride

By Bus

The Galloping Goose (970/728-5700) provides an in-town loop and the gondola connects the town of Telluride with the Mountain Village with no fare charged., 7 AM-11 PM.

By Gondola

A gondola connects Oak Street with the Mountain Village. The 2-mile ride takes 11 minutes. Another gondola joins the Mountain Village with a parking lot. The gondola operates 275 days a year 7 AM-11 PM Sunday-Thursday and 7 AM-midnight Friday and Saturday.

By Taxi

Taxis are easy to find, and the wait is only about 15 minutes.

Telluride Express ( 970/728-6667).

By Car

A car is unnecessary for local transportation, except for any out-of-town excursions.

Road Conditions

Colorado offers some of the most spectacular and challenging driving in the world. Deer, elk, and even bears may try to cross the road in front of you.

For road conditions and information, contact Colorado Road Conditions (303)639-1111 within a 2-hr drive of Denver or 303/639-1234 statewide; 877/315-7623).

Winter Driving

Even main highways can close. Be prepared for stormy weather: carry an emergency kit containing warm clothes, a flashlight, some food and water, and blankets. It’s also good to carry a cell phone, but be aware that the mountains can disrupt service and there will be some areas in which there is no cell phone service.

Highway Rules

The speed limit on interstate highways ranges from 65 to 70 mph, as indicated, unless otherwise posted. Right turns on red lights (after making a stop) are legal in Colorado.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Dave’s Jeep Tours leads exploration of the high mountain passes and scenic back roads of the San Juan Mountains and the Lone Cone Country. 2 hour, 3 hour, 4 hour or all day guided tours into the Uncompahgre National Forest on snowmobiles.

Dave’s Snowmobile Tours invites you to experience the magic of Beaver Park. Breathtaking scenery and panoramic vistas!

Dave’s Mountain Tours offers several activities for the family to enjoy in Telluride Colorado (970) 728-9749.

San Juan’s Paddling School

From traditional kayaking, day excursions to multi day trips, whatever your age or experience, there’s a paddling adventure for you.

Telluride Outside
Enjoy a horseback ride in the valley of Telluride. Colorado Telluride Outside has an activity to suit everyone in the family.

The TopAten Picnic and Touring Area

offers 10 kilometers of groomed, rolling trails for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, a sunny picnic deck with restrooms and a heated teepee for escape to warmth on cold, snowy days.

Located at the top of Lift 10, the Nordic trails provide breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the ski area.

Tours
Snowshoe through spruce/fir and aspen forests while learning about Telluride’s wildlife, forest ecology, geology and history and taking in Telluride’s unsurpassed mountain scenery.

Routes of varying difficulty welcome participants of all abilities. Tours meet at 10am, at the new Plaza Nature Center located near the gondola in the Mountain Village Plaza.

Thrill Hill
Children, teens and adults find speed and excitement at Thrill Hill, offering tubing, snowskating and snowbiking from 2:30 to 7:00 pm, Wednesday- Sunday. Stop by the Gravity Garage to compare stories hang out. Located at the base of Lift 2 in Mountain Village. Thrill Hill opens December 24.

Mountain Tours
Led by Telluride Mountain Hosts, these free tours of the Telluride Mountain incorporate colorful stories about Telluride’s history, interesting facts about the environment, and local trivia. There is one tour daily open to intermediate-level- and-above snowriders, the “Meet the Mountain” tour meets daily at 10:00 am at the top of Lift 7, by the big trail map sign.

NASTAR Racing

Race on the NASTAR course where you’ll be nationally ranked against others of your same gender and in your age bracket for the opportunity to win bronze, silver or gold medals. The Pay-to-Race course lets you practice your proficiency in the gates before racing for medals in the NASTAR, which is open 11 am to 3 pm daily.

Plaza Arcade

The perfect hangout for teens, the Plaza Arcade is located in the Mountain Village next to the Slopeside Lockers. The Plaza Arcade, open from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm offers video games, pinball, air hockey and foosball.

Telluride Outside

121 W. Colorado Avenue Telluride, CO (800) 831-6230

White Water rafting and other activities. Daily 7-7.

Wyndham Peaks Resort & Spa
An indoor water slide, indoor lap pool and outdoor pool make this perfect for the whole family. Daily access fees apply.

Tomboy Mine

Located near the 13,000 foot summit of Imogene Pass,

A visit to the mine gives visitors the opportunity of exploring the town’s mining past.
D- Family Fun Attractions:
The TopAten Picnic and Touring Area

offers 10 kilometers of groomed, rolling trails for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, a sunny picnic deck with restrooms and a heated teepee for escape to warmth on cold, snowy days.

Located at the top of Lift 10, the Nordic trails provide breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the ski area.

Thrill Hill
Children, teens and adults find speed and excitement at Thrill Hill, offering tubing, snowskating and snowbiking from 2:30 to 7:00 pm, Wednesday- Sunday. Stop by the Gravity Garage to compare stories hang out. Located at the base of Lift 2 in Mountain Village. Thrill Hill opens December 24.

NASTAR Racing

Race on the NASTAR course where you’ll be nationally ranked against others of your same gender and in your age bracket for the opportunity to win bronze, silver or gold medals. The Pay-to-Race course lets you practice your proficiency in the gates before racing for medals in the NASTAR, which is open 11 am to 3 pm daily.

Plaza Arcade

The perfect hangout for teens, the Plaza Arcade is located in the Mountain Village next to the Slopeside Lockers. The Plaza Arcade, open from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm offers video games, pinball, air hockey and foosball.

Telluride Outside

121 W. Colorado Avenue Telluride, CO (800) 831-6230

White Water rafting and other activities. Daily 7-7.

Wyndham Peaks Resort & Spa
An indoor water slide, indoor lap pool and outdoor pool make this perfect for the whole family. Daily access fees apply.

Tomboy Mine

Located near the 13,000 foot summit of Imogene Pass,

A visit to the mine gives visitors the opportunity of exploring the town’s mining past.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Annual Events

May (Memorial Day Weekend)

Mountainfilm Festival

June (3rd weekend in June)

Telluride Bluegrass Festival

August

KOTO Duck Race

Annual fundraiser for community radio KOTO. Launch your rubber duck and watch it brave the rapids of the river. If yours is the lucky winner, you’ll win some special prizes.

Telluride Jazz Celebration

Jazz aficionados worldwide gather for this annual festival which is held at the Sheridan Opera House.

Telluride Chamber Music Festival

September

Labor Day Weekend: Telluride Film Festival

Blues and Brews Festival

Fabulous blues music accompanied by a microbrew grand tasting, craft and food market, intimate late-night blues clubs, and a venue beneath towering peaks in beautiful Town Park. Information: 888-515-6166

Telluride Culinary Arts Festival

Food lovers gather in Telluride’s Mountain Village for culinary offerings from renowned local restaurants and chefs. Acclaimed guest chefs from America’s Southwest also showcase their cuisine.

Telluride Oktoberfest

Mountain Village celebrates in traditional Bavarian style during this fun filled day.

Annual Telluride Wine Festival

The world’s finest wine and gourmet food await at this four-day event where guests may enjoy one-on-one contact with noted culinary masters and wine experts, in Telluride’s stunning outdoor setting. Seminars, expertly prepared food, and wine tastings are offered throughout the weekend.

Arts and Entertainment

Telluride Repertory Theater Company
970/728-4539
The Telluride Repertory Theatre produces high caliber productions of original, classic and contemporary works. Each summer the Rep presents “Classics in the Park,” a three-week run of outdoor theatre ranging from Shakespeare’s Macbeth to dramatic tragedies like Medea. The Rep also presents free Commedia Del’Arte performances in Mountain Village. During the winter, the Rep performs at the Sheridan Opera House with high-energy Broadway favorites.

Telluride Choral Society
The Telluride Choral Society holds WinterSing concerts in December, SpringSings in April, and SundaySings in February and March. It supports the Children’s Chorus of Telluride, the Telluride Chorale, the Telluride Chamber Singers, and other vocal music through performances and ongoing music education. 728-3411

Telluride Writers Guild
The Writers Guild brings writers together for readings, workshops, competitions, occasional publications and an annual literary festival in October, called the Walking Words. Every month, a free, open meeting is held at the Ah Haa School featuring a local or nationally known writer presenting their work. Later, meeting participants share their own poetry, writing samples, lyrics and stories of all kinds. 728-0399

Sheridan Opera House and Sheridan Arts Foundation
The Sheridan Opera House at the center of Telluride’s thriving arts community. It is a venue for everything from concerts to movie premieres. 970-728-6363

Telluride Academy
Providing enrichment education to youth and teens since 1984, this non-profit organization specializes in summer arts and recreation programs. Free. Tel: 728-5311 fax: 970-728-5312

Telluride Chamber Orchestra
Opportunities for local and regional amateur and professional musicians to work together and perform for the community are provided by the chamber orchestra. Musicals that feature various styles and instrumental groupings are performed in the spring, summer and fall. 728-1463

Telluride Council for the Arts & Humanities
Dedicated to keeping the arts strong, healthy and growing in Telluride, TCAH is a grassroots, community-based group that offers the “Homegrown Series” which showcases the original works of local artists, and the annual Celebration Arts Street Fair. 728-9830

Buena Vista, Colorado

A- Overview:
Known as the Whitewater Capital of Colorado, the picturesque town of Buena Vista is one of the major gateways to recreation in the 1,109,782 acre San Isabel National Forest and the 148 mile long Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. Here you’ll find larger than life mountains, a louder than life river, a respectful bow to the past, and an artful eye toward the future.

Buena Vista, Colorado, nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountain’s Collegiate Peaks,on the east slope of the Continental Divide, is the sort of community most people only dream of. The hard working, quiet people who have always resided in this area are a large part of what has made this town a great place to live and play.

Buena Vista, (Spanish for “Good View”) is aptly named. There are 19 trailheads for most of Chaffee County’s 14,000 peaks – all located within an hour of Buena Vista. There are approximately 300 days with sunshine every year, with surprisingly mild temperatures in all seasons. Buena Vista is considered by many the capital of whitewater rafting for the United States. Many Arkansas Valley outfitters use the Buena Vista area for launch sites to some of the country’s best whitewater rafting down the exciting Arkansas River, and you’ll understand why Buena Vista is both a vacationer’s destination of choice for peaceful relaxation, AND a targeted destination for business, personal or retirement relocation. Fishing, mountain biking, hiking, and rafting, combined with one of the state’s most acclaimed art communities, makes Buena Vista a “don’t miss” for visitors and a “place to move” for those looking for a peaceful area to relocate a business and family.

The mountains bordering Buena Vista have a profound effect on the climate. Annual rainfall is 10-12 inches making it comparable to places in Arizona. The surrounding high peaks receive considerably higher amounts of precipitation and thus provide the valley with ample irrigation water during the growing season. The semi-arid climate provides very little humidity and the average summer highs are 78-80 degrees and winter highs from 45-55 degrees with lows in the teens. The locals refer to the area as the “Banana Belt of the Rockies” and enjoy outdoor activities year round.

When the snow falls the ski season starts. The Monarch Ski Area, just minutes from Buena Vista, is said to have the best natural snowfall each year. There are numerous trails to enjoy in the high country if cross country is your preference. Other popular winter sports are snowmobiling in the mountains and ice fishing on frozen lakes

Some of the spring and summer activities include hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, off-road exploring, and golf.

The economy and population are steady and thriving. The beautiful scenery, tree-lined streets, year-round mild climate, clean air, and clear sparkling water are just some of the things that make Buena Vista a truly great place to live, work, and visit.

B- City Information:
Buena Vista Population: 2,195

About Buena Vista: Got the big city blues? Tired of high crime, dirty air and overcrowded schools? the 30- 90 minute commute to work every day? Wish you didn’t have to pack the car and drive 2 or 3 hours to find a quiet place to enjoy a Saturday or even a weekend? Ever thought of spending time in some peaceful mountain community, but were sure it was only a dream? There is a vacation destination that can make that dream a reality! Buena Vista, Colorado. Pay a visit, and you may decide to stay for a lifetime!

Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone.

Summer Average High Temperature (July)
81.4° F

Summer Average Low Temperature (July)
47.3° F

Winter Average High Temperature (January)
40.2° F

Winter Average Low Temperature (January)
10.7° F

Growing Season
113 days

Annual Rainfall
10.15″

Annual Snowfall
30.4″

Average Wind Velocity
W 10 MPH

Number of Frost Free Days
80 days

Number of Sunshine Days
300 days

Elevation
7,950 ft
above sea level

Winter Weather Note
When enjoying the region’s back country, remember to prepare for changing weather conditions. Also, notify someone about where you plan to travel and your expected time of return. Register at forest service register boxes at trailheads when they are available. Not all trails are available for all types of users.

Snowmobiles are excluded from wilderness areas. Check with the forest service before going into unfamiliar territory. Most of the trails you will find described here are marked with diamond signs by the forest service – blue diamonds designating ski and snowshoe use and orange diamonds for snowmobile use.

Elevation, Sun, and Altitude Tips

High elevation affects your body and influences the weather. It impacts every decision made in planning for a trip: route and clothing chosen, evaluation of fitness and ability, and amount and types of liquid and food consumed.

The effects of altitude are usually felt immediately upon arriving in the mountains. All excercise is harder at first. Visitors might experience heavy breathing, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, headache, nausea, or insomnia. This is normal. At 9,000 feet, each breath takes in only 70 to 80 percent of the oxygen available at sea level.

You can minimize the effects of high altitude by drinking lots of water, avoiding alcohol, eating light, high-carbohydrate meals, increasing physical activity gradually, and rest when tired. After about four or five days, most visitors begin to feel better.

Water loss occurs rapidly when exercising at high altitude. Low humidity and direct sun cause perspiration, a potent combination. While exercising, the movement of air over your body is accelerating water loss from skin. If you are thirsty, dehydration has already begun.

Drink water or sports drinks before, during and after exercising. Try to consume no less than a pint of liquid per hour while exercising. Drink every 15 to 20 minutes even if sensation of thirst is absent. Carry a large water bottle for access to water.

Sun

With less atmosphere to filter out the sun’s harmful rays, mountain travelers are more vulnerable to sunburn. There is five times more ultraviolet light here than at sea level. Apply sunblock lotions or wear protective clothing. The intense sunshine can produce withering heat in open areas. At midday it can sap energy, deliver headaches, and contribute to dehydration. In hot weather, try to get out in the early morning or late afternoon. And drink lots of water to avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day last Mon. in May

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve Dec. 31

Important Addresses to Know

Postal services
Buena Vista Post Office is at 110 Brookdale Ave., just one block west of U.S. 24. The lobby is open 24 hours daily, seven days a week. Service window hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to noon. Phone: 395-2445.

Nathrop Post Office, next to Nathrop General Store, about eight miles south of Buena Vista, is open from 8 a.m. to noon, and 1:00 to 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday; 8 to 10 a.m., Saturday. Phone: 395-2720.
Granite Post Office, at Granite General Store, 17 miles north of Buena Vista, is open from 8 a.m. to noon, Monday through Saturday. Phone: 486-1679.

Public library
Buena Vista Public Library is at 131 Linderman Ave., next to the police station. It is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday. The library is closed Sundays and holidays. Phone: 395-8700.

Emergency services
For emergency calls in Chaffee County (police, fire or health) call 911.
Buena Vista Public Safety Complex is headquarters for police, sheriff and state patrol offices and volunteer fire and ambulance crews in northern Chaffee County. The complex is at 123 Linderman Ave., south of Main Street. The business office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Non-emergency calls: 395-8654

Medical Services

For health care in the area, locals utilize one or a combination of the resources listed below:

St. Vincent General Hospital (Leadville)
822 West 4th Street
Leadville, CO 80461
(719) 486-0230
Provides basic medical/surgical services to all age groups, operating rooms perform elective and

emergency surgery, 24 hour emergency services and full scope radiology, respiratory, therapy, laboratory, pathology and rehab services. Home Health Care provides care to the homebound patient. Level IV Designated Trauma Center is fully equipped. Hospital owned ambulance service with emergency helicopter transport service is also available.

Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center (Salida)
448 E 1st Street (P.O. Box 429)
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-6661
HRRMC is a full-service hospital with extensive surgical treatment, rehabilitation services and diagnostic capabilities. They have a new bone densitometer and the only OPEN MRI between Durango and Colorado Springs.
They have over 60 physicians practicing in specialties ranging from family practice to orthopedics to internal medicine to general surgery, just to name a few. Their caring, highly qualified (and much-loved) nurses provide exceptional care as well as the personal attention you deserve.
Their Emergency Department is a Level-IV designated trauma facility, staffed by physicians and nurses 24 hours a day, and supported by Radiology, Laboratory, and Cardio-Pulmonary services around the clock.

Buena Vista Family Clinic (Buena Vista)
836 US Hwy 24 South
Buena Vista, CO 81211
(719) 395-9048
Provides X-Ray, laboratory, physical therapy, 24 hour on-call service. (Affiliated with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Leadville.)

Mountain Medical Clinic (Buena Vista)
36 Oak Street
Buena Vista, CO 81211
(719) 395-8632
Provides total family care including obstetrics, pediatrics, adult medicine and spinal adjustments. 24 hour on-call with physical therapy on site. (Affiliated with Heart of the Rockies Medical Center in Salida).

The Medical Clinic (Salida)
550 West Hwy 50

Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-2000
Provides urology, orthopedic surgery, radiology, podiatry, GI endoscope, internal medicine.

Upper Arkansas Home Health Care/Angel of Shavano Hospice
543 E. First Street
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-7638
(Affiliated with Heart of the Rockies Medical Center)

Town Hall
Buena Vista Town Hall, in the second block of East Main Street, is office to the town clerk and administrator. Town hall is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Phone: 395-8643.

Chamber of Commerce
Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Phone 395-6612.

The chamber office is in the white historic chapel in Forest Square Park, along the east side of U.S. 24.

Economic incentives for creating new businesses or relocating existing businesses are available in the area, as this is a state designated Enterprise Zone. The schools are ranked well above State averages with many teachers winning State and National honors – many with Masters Degrees. Buena Vista’s area crime rate is ranked extremely low, with strong community support of its service infrastructure.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Nature area
Buena Vista’s E. Alfred Marquard Nature Area is behind McGinnis Middle School, at South Railroad Street and Marquette Avenue, and includes 10 acres bordering Cottonwood Creek, with foot paths, bird blinds and learning stations.

Buena Vista Heritage Museum
Buena Vista, CO 81211
719-395-8458

Learn about the history of Buena Vista Colorado!

River Park
The 90-acre Buena Vista Recreational River Park is located at the east end of Main Street, along

the Arkansas River. The park has picnic tables and trails overlooking the river, access to the river for trout fishing, (including handicap access), public restrooms, a footbridge across the river, a soccer field, softball and baseball fields, a sand volleyball court, basketball court and covered pavilion.

Ghost Towns and Historical Places

Perhaps you’ve heard of such names as Doc Holliday, Bat Masterson, The “Unsinkable” Molly Brown of Titanic fame (Margaret Brown), Baby Doe Tabor, the Cole-Younger Gang, and “Soapy” Smith. Surprisingly, all of these personalities and countless more just as famous, infamous (and even some not-so-famous), are an integral part of the amazing history of the Upper Arkansas Valley.

Untouched ruins, as well as restored ghost towns and mining camps, are found throughout the Valley. If you’re a hiker, mountain biker, ATV enthusiast or 4-wheeler, there are ruins left over from the mining boom era that are located in spectacular areas at elevations well over 12,000 – 14,000 feet above sea level. Other locations, including the various Historical Districts like Twin Lakes and St. Elmo, can be easily accessed by passenger vehicle. One of the nations most amazing engineering feats, the famous Alpine Tunnel (which brought the railroad from Buena Vista, through the ghost towns of St. Elmo, Romley and Hancock, and then through the mountain to Gunnison on the west portal) is accessible via the old railroad bed and is one of the State’s most spectacular walking hikes.

Tours of Mines

Early development of Colorado was, in great part, the result of gold discoveries when literally thousands of hopeful prospectors flooded the area with pick and shovel – later when the gold boom passed, it was the silver boom that exploded. As techniques improved, fortunes were made and paupers became millionaires overnight. Lake County brags a newly paved biking/hiking trail that winds through restored mining gallows and ruins. The Silver Kings self-tour can be made by auto, and explores many of the biggest producing mines in the Leadville area.

Jeep tours and guide services are available for those not experienced in trekking to the high elevations themselves, and offer spectacular trips to the high country that many will never see on their own.

Jeep and ATV rentals are available for self guided touring.

Southern Chaffee County hosts The Lost Mine… one of only 13 historic mines in the State of Colorado open to the public for an amazing and educational tour inside, showing the crystals and caverns left behind from early day mining.

The National Mining Hall of Fame

is nationally recognized for its vast collection of books, displays, artifacts and tours which detail the amazing story of the nation’s mining history from the early prospectors to modern day mining that continues today. Art, life-size replica mines, detailed models, antiques, interactive displays and a world class mineral collection are tastefully housed in a Victorian era, 70,000 square foot facility. Come and learn how mining affects you everyday. The Hall of Fame features biographical sketches of individuals that have made an impact on mining. Stories include the school-boy playing hooky who discovered a gold mine and a mining engineer who later became the President of the US.

Other Tours

Countless other tours are available throughout the Valley during all or part of each year, including the world famous Tabor Opera House, Healy House, Dexter Cabin, Matchless Mine, Lost Mine.

Indoor Activities

Although the Arkansas Valley is very proud of its snowfall quality and volume, which add enjoyment to so many outdoor activities, there is also a myriad of other things to do inside:

Art Galleries and Cultural Events
The valley has been recognized as one of the nation’s best art and cultural centers and a visit to many locally operated galleries and shops proves why. Many events such as Leadville’s Victorian Home tour, and a number of local Art Walks throughout Chaffee County present some of the very best architectural and artistic talent. Some facilities offer craft activities, such as pottery-making classes, quilting, water color painting, etc.

Sports and Recreation

Rafting

Whitewater rafting defines summers in Colorado’s Headwaters of Adventure like nothing else. In fact, the Arkansas is the most popular rafting river in the world.

Some of the nation’s very best whitewater rafting is found on the exciting Arkansas River… running right through the center of the Arkansas Valley with the spectacular 14,000 ft. mountains running with it.

Rafting at Brown’s Canyon

Probably the most famous and popular stretch of river is Brown’s Canyon, Situated between Buena Vista and Salida, Browns is a moderate and popular trip with Class III and IV whitewater flowing through a beautiful, hidden granite canyon.
Visitors can choose to take easy and moderate family float trips for all ages or get the adrenaline pumping through some of the nation’s most intense rapids with such apt names as.

Staircase, Zoom Flume, Big Drop, Graveyard, Widowmaker, and Raft Ripper and countless other thrilling advanced-to-expert rated rapids. Highly qualified outfitters offer river guides for beginners, as well as experts.1/2 day or 5 day… raft or kayak… all here in the Arkansas Valley!

What makes the Arkansas numero uno is its:

· variety and types of trips

· amount of white water per mile

· accessibility to major metropolitan areas

· number of places along the river rafters or kayakers can put in or take out

· length of season

· spectacular scenery

Whitewater Kayaking

The Arkansas River is a kayaking mecca! Over 100 miles of whitewater runs through our valley with all types of rapids from class I to Class V. Also two world-class whitewater parks in Salida and Buena Vista.

Hiking & Backpacking

The San Isabel National Forest has easily accessible trails that provide great mountain scenery.

Agnes Vaille Falls Trail

This is one of the best trails for newcomers to the mountains. This trail begins at 8,700 feet elevation and finishes at 9,000 feet. It is a half-mile interpretive trail that ends at a waterfall. To get to the Agnes Vaille trailhead, take U.S. 285 to CR 162. Turn west and travel about six miles. Agnes Vaille Falls Trail is located in the Chalk Creek Canyon. Chalk cliffs, unsafe for climbing, surround the area. Mountain goats and bighorn mountain sheep can be seen.

Colorado Trail
Another easy hike is from Mt. Shavano Campground to Blanks Cabin. This two-mile section follows the Sawatch Range through some beautiful aspen groves. To get to the trailhead, take U.S. 50 to CR 240 north.

Hiking / Snowshoeing

The words “winter wonderland” can be truly experienced with a hike through the back country during the winter months. The air is crisp and clean, the snow is hanging from the pine trees, and mountain peaks make for post card views. Snowshoeing has rapidly become a favorite among those who want to enjoy the peace and quiet of a beautiful winter snow in our back country or along groomed trails.

Golfing

Tee Time. Breathtaking scenery, altitude enhanced drives and downright reasonable greens fees. What’s not to love about a quick round of golf in the Upper Arkansas Valley? Nine- hole, regulation length courses in Buena Vista and Salida are typically open March through November.

Horseback and Llamas

From short, one-hour guided trail trips to rigorous multi-day excursions, a great variety of rides await visitors looking for a truly Western experience. Outfitters provide a choice of rides for those who haven’t ridden as well as for those experienced cowboys and cowgirls. Those with horses who wish to visit the region can pick their trail and terrain. Stables are available and several Bed & Breakfasts will also board your horse during your stay.

For those who want to hike the 14ers region but do not want to carry all their gear, there’s llama trekking. In the Salida/Buena Vista area there are several llama guide and outfitter companies permitted through the US Forest Service to choose from for your Colorado Llama Vacation.

Why llamas? Llamas are outstanding pack animals, especially for those inexperienced with animals. Their intelligence, surefootedness, calm and friendly disposition, moderate size, and minimal impact to the environment make llamas easy to lead, even for young children as young as three years old.

Trails in the San Isabel National Forest wind through peaceful, stream-fed lush valleys, up wildflower carpeted alpine mountainsides, and across high mountain ridges and the Continental Divide. Friendly, trained, and experienced guides share their knowledge of the local area and history, geology, wildlife, and flora and fauna.

Mountain Biking

Pumped . Mile for mile, hiking and biking trails in the Upper Arkansas Valley stand toe to toe with some of the best in the country. Wildlife, miners, stagecoach lines and railroad barons have left the high country criss-crossed with everything from single-track to long abandoned narrow gauge railroad beds.

Every summer, those with a gusto for superlatives and leg power to match test their mettle along the border of land and sky on the Monarch Crest Trail – which overlaps the statewide Colorado Trail. Blissfully uncrowded lesser-known trails appeal to a wide range of abilities and tastes.

Off to an early start: While surrounding peaks may receive 30 feet of snow a year, the valley floor averages 10 to 11 inches of precipitation annually. this makes for great early-season riding locally.

Snowmobiling

When the days get shorter and the snow begins to fall, some Salida businesses find they are still in-season during the off season.

“Four-wheelers sell pretty steadily all year long, but snowmobiles are almost exclusively a winter seller,” said Paula Bullington, owner of High Country Connection in Salida.
Because most snowmobilers in Colorado ride above 10,000 feet, Bullington says they specialize in large engine machines.

“At 13,000 and 14,000 feet engines lose over a quarter of their sea-level power. The new machine for this winter has an 800 cubic centimeter engine that gives it power to spare for high elevation,” Bullington said.

Snowmobile Tours

Monarch Tours is conveniently located across the highway from the Monarch Mountain Lodge. Skiers and snowboarders who need to give their legs the day off can opt for a professionally guided tour, or rent and explore on their own. Call 719-539-2572 for rates and availability.

Cottonwood Country Snowmobile Tours began selling guided tours December 15. Tours begin at Denny Creek trailhead and go up Cottonwood Pass, into Taylor Park and to Tincup.

Fishing

Gone fishin’: Anglers would rather keep it a secret, but the Arkansas is one of the best brown trout fisheries in the country. The diversity in fishing waters, hatches and climate mean something is always going on on the Upper Arkansas. Couple that with one of the highest catch rates in the state and an occasional Rainbow surprise, and it’s no wonder anglers the world over find the Ark an addictive destination. Ssshhh . . . don’t tell.

Hunting

The Arkansas Valley is well known for its trophy hunting opportunities. Big game abounds here, including elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, big horn sheep, mountain goat, moose and bear. You can no longer obtain an over-the-counter deer license. You must apply. Guide services are available if you need assistance or are unfamiliar with the area.

(check DOW or local merchants for restrictions)

Skiing / Snowboarding

World renowned white powder downhill skiing can be best enjoyed right here in the Arkansas Valley. Ski Cooper, located just 10 miles north of Leadville opens in late November and remains open through March. Lessons and rentals are available at this family oriented resort. Taking an annual snowfall of 260 inches, Ski Cooper makes for some of the best and most affordable skiing in the state.

Chaffee County also brags the famous Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area, recently adding $350,000 worth of new improvements to its resort, including espresso bar, café and Gunbarrel Café and Sidewinder Saloon. Lessons and children’s services are available.

For those cross country skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts, the Arkansas Valley touts countless trails and beautiful places to visit… many are the same spectacular trails that are hiked during the summer months. Because of the popularity of cross country skiing and snowshoeing throughout the Valley, rentals, equipment, lessons, guides and supplies are abundant throughout the entire area.

The National Mining Hall of Fame is nationally recognized for its vast collection of books, displays, artifacts and tours which detail the amazing story of the nation’s mining history from the early prospectors to modern day mining that continues today. Art, life-size replica mines, detailed models, antiques, interactive displays and a world class mineral collection are tastefully housed in a Victorian era, 70,000 square foot facility. Come and learn how mining affects you everyday. Our Hall of Fame features biographical sketches of individuals that have made an impact on mining. Stories include the school-boy playing hooky who discovered a gold mine to a mining engineer who later became the President of the US.

Southern Chaffee County hosts The Lost Mine… one of only 13 historic mines in the State of Colorado open to the public for an amazing and educational tour inside, showing the crystals and caverns left behind from early day mining.

Art Galleries and Cultural Events
The valley has been recognized as one of the nation’s best art and cultural centers and a visit to many locally operated galleries and shops proves why. Many events such as Leadville’s Victorian Home tour, and a number of local Art Walks throughout Chaffee County present some of the very best architectural and artistic talent. Some facilities offer craft activities, like pottery-making classes, quilting, water color painting, etc.

Hot Springs

Relax; restore. To Native Americans, hot springs were sacred places. To today’s active, harried humans, hot springs are slices of heaven where you rejuvenate the body in soothing, naturally mineral – rich waters. Historic Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center is a family – friendly public indoor facility. Open-air creek side facilities can be found at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort outside Nathrop and Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn and Spa just west of Buena Vista. Other hot springs can be found at lodging properties west of Nathrop, as well south in the neighboring San Luis Valley.

Barbara Whipple Trail

The Park also includes the, which connects with the Midland Trail. The Midland Trail follows the old Midland Railroad grade overlooking Buena Vista and the surrounding valley. The Midland Trail, open to hikers and mountain-bike riders, continues for about 12 miles east, toward Trout Creek Pass.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Buena Vista Heritage Museum
Buena Vista, CO 81211
719-395-8458

Learn about the history of Buena Vista Colorado!

Ghost Towns and Historical Places

Perhaps you’ve heard of such names as Doc Holliday, Bat Masterson, The “Unsinkable” Molly Brown of Titanic fame (Margaret Brown), Baby Doe Tabor, the Cole-Younger Gang, and “Soapy” Smith. Surprisingly, all of these personalities and countless more just as famous, infamous (and even some not-so-famous), are an integral part of the amazing history of the Upper Arkansas Valley.

Untouched ruins, as well as restored ghost towns and mining camps, are found throughout the Valley. If you’re a hiker, mountain biker, ATV enthusiast or 4-wheeler, there are ruins left over from the mining boom era that are located in spectacular areas at elevations well over 12,000 – 14,000 feet above sea level. Other locations, including the various Historical Districts like Twin Lakes and St. Elmo, can be easily accessed by passenger vehicle. One of the nations most amazing engineering feats, the famous Alpine Tunnel (which brought the railroad from Buena Vista, through the ghost towns of St. Elmo, Romley and Hancock, and then through the mountain to Gunnison on the west portal) is accessible via the old railroad bed and is one of the State’s most spectacular walking hikes.

Tours of Mines

Early development of Colorado was, in great part, the result of gold discoveries when literally thousands of hopeful prospectors flooded the area with pick and shovel – later when the gold boom passed, it was the silver boom that exploded. As techniques improved, fortunes were made and paupers became millionaires overnight. Lake County brags a newly paved biking/hiking trail that winds through restored mining gallows and ruins. The Silver Kings self-tour can be made by auto, and explores many of the biggest producing mines in the Leadville area.

Jeep tours and guide services are available for those not experienced in trekking to the high elevations themselves, and offer spectacular trips to the high country that many will never see on their own.

Jeep and ATV rentals are available for self guided touring.

Southern Chaffee County hosts The Lost Mine… one of only 13 historic mines in the State of Colorado open to the public for an amazing and educational tour inside, showing the crystals and caverns left behind from early day mining.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events

January

Bike Festivals. January, the 2nd Annual Arkansas Valley Cyclocross Series takes off; in May, the Buena Vista Bike Fest is scheduled; and in September, the Banana Belt Weekend offers trials and a mountain bike race. The Crest Crank treks along the Monarch Crest Trail.

The Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club in Buena Vista, sponsors snowmobile rides each year. On New Year’s Eve, the club holds a chili supper, followed by a ride to the top of Cottonwood Pass to watch fireworks being shot from Pikes Peak.

March
A snowmobile rally is held the first weekend in March. Participants are invited to enjoy a chili supper, banquet, and dance. On the first day, snowmobilers ride to the top of Tincup Pass. The next day, riders will summit Cottonwood Pass. For more information call the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce at 395-6612.

June

The Delaware Hotel in Leadville, hosts its annual “Murder and Mayhem” tour in June. Local historians host cemetery tours with colorful descriptions of those buried there…

July

On the classical side, the Annual Salida-Aspen Concert Series brings top talent from the renowned Aspen Music Festival to the valley with six concerts on consecutive Saturday nights beginning July 10.

August

Archery season opens: Aug 30th

September

September 1 Annual John Denver Festival

Mid-September A Taste of Italy Festival

Mid-September Annual Banana Belt Bicycle Weekend

Mid-September Applefest Revisit the early 1900’s – demonstrations, tractor and pony rides and tours.

Mid-September (Salida) Annual Angel of Shavano Car Show. Antique and new car show

Mid-September Muzzle Loading Rifle season opens:

October

Early October Aspen Leaf Open Golf Tournament Collegiate Peaks Golf Course, Buena Vista

Mid-October: Rifle season opens

Late October Annual ATV Historical Color Tour

December 31

The Heart of the Rockies Snowmobile Club in Salida holds an annual New Year’s Eve ride to the top of Marshall Pass. Riders meet at the parking lot at Shirley Site on CR 200 at 8 p.m., and are encouraged to bring a potluck dish. Food is shared at midnight, on the summit in the Hutchinson Barnett cowcamp cabin. For more information, contact Don or Paula Bullington at High Country Connection, 539-6168.