WHAT TO DO IN SALIDA?                                                                                                          

The home of true Rocky Mountain living, Salida, is nestled in the heart of the the Arkansas River Valley and boasts proximity to fifteen 14,000 ft peaks, world class mountain biking, gold medal fishing, championship kayaking and a summer of non-stop rafting. (Nevermind the local ski resort, snowmobile trails, backcountry skiing or snow shoe opportunities.) A modern day mix of new and old where cowboys and ranch hands can still be seen herding cattle and art galleries dot the historic streets of downtown, Salida offers a quality of life that is becoming increasingly rare in the United States.

A strong sense of community and an ever growing list of events make Salida the place to be this summer! Check it out....

CADDIS HATCH: ~ Early May                                                                                                        

While an exact date can't be nailed down the flies hatch sometime near Mother's Day and guarantee a feeding frenzy for both fish and fishermen alike! Caddis belong to the insect order Trichoptera, and there are thousands of species. The hatch starts near Canon City and moves up the Arkansas River - the timing determined by a combination of water temperature and sunlight. The trick to fishing the hatch is to fish in front of or behind it, and while there is a lot of public river frontage the best way to fish the hatch is on a weekday, with a guide and access to private water, or float the Arkansas. For guides and info check with the Arkansas River Fly Shop in Salida.

FIBARK: June 12-15, 2008                                                                                                        

FIBARK stands for First In Boating on the ARKansas and the tradition began in 1949 when two friends placed bets on which one would win a river race from Salida to Canon City. The race nearly killed the both of them and the modern day incarnation has been shortened to the 26 miles of whitewater between Salida and Cotopaxi. Evey year tens of thousands of people stream into Salida to celebrate summer, the river, and enjoy a weekend full of street vendors, carnival rides and live music in the park! For more information visit FIBARK online at: www.FIBARK.net

ART WALK: June 27-28, 2008                                                                                                      

Art Walk is another favorite annual Salida event. The weekend features works from nationally known artists, sculptors and jewelers showcased in over 40 local galleries, restaurants and shops. For a list of this year's participants and a full schedule of openings and events, please visit: www.salidaartwalk.org or call toll free, 7877.772.5432.

BANANA BELT BICYCLE WEEKEND: September 20-21, 2008                                                        

This three day human-powered sporting event features a 26mile mountain bike race from Salida's Riverside Park, up the Rainbow Trail, and back! The Banana Belt Loop was started in 1989 by a local bike club and cycle shop and has gained in popularity ever since. In addition to the single-track loop there are several other races and activities for anyone who can ride a bicycle - or even a tricycle. Check out the Salida Chamber of Commerce website for more and updated information: www.salidachamber.org/bananabelt

SALIDA ASPEN CONCERTS: Ongoing                                                                                         

Born of a long-standing relationship with the Aspen Musci Fesitval & School, the Salida Aspen Concert Series brings quality musical performances to the city of Salida. For more information on the series and a 2008 schedule, please visit: www.salidaaspenconcerts.org

For more information on these or other events you can always contact our team at: 719.539.1031