Buena Vista is one of Colorado’s outdoor adventure gems! Stunning Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River provide days of outdoor activities. The town of Buena Vista (aka BV) is packed with restaurants, specialty shops, and river walks to enjoy after hiking at the end of the day.
TRAILHEAD
Just across the Arkansas River at the end of East Main Street is a mecca of trails to hike year-round. This is one of my favorite springtime hikes, known for its sunny, warm climate in spring after a long winter of snow and cold.
The Collegiate Peaks are blanketed in the snow leaving breathtaking views as we hike through pinon, pines, cacti, and boulders.
It’s early April and only a few hikers are about. (this area can be busy in summer with bikes and hikers). But don’t let that stop you, it’s beautiful
A relaxing trail just to get outside. If new to hiking this would be a great start. It’s moderate in spots as you weave in and out of boulders and up rock stair steps.
PANORAMIC VIEWS THROUGHOUT!
Oh, the views are endless …
Maps of the trails are located throughout the hike, so getting lost would be hard to do. However, you can view and download the map HERE and start making your own hike.
Don’t want to hike, take a stroll along the river, and bring a picnic. We do that often after a day of hiking in the Collegiates.
For appropriate gear when hiking anywhere in Colorado CLICK HERE. Highly recommend water, trekking poles, good shoes, sunscreen, & small first aid kit on all BV Trails.
For a look at other activity options in Buena Vista – buenavistarec.com
Tip: A favorite stop of ours in BV and for many others is K’s Dairy Delite. You’ll see the lines outside!
Camelbak Hydration Backpack – Popular among my hiking friends for low elevation & shorter trails.
Altra Lone Peak Trail Shoes – I’ve tried a lot of shoes/boots. These are amazing for comfort in the summer months!
Hiking Umbrella – Never knew I needed this until I had one! Love it. Rain & sunshine protection. Super lightweight,
LOCATED
Trails start at the Buena Vista Whitewater Park on the Map above. Cross the bridge and choose your route.
CLICK HERE for a trail map.
HIKES NEARBY
Ptarmigan Lake Trail, Cottonwood Pass
Inter-Laken Trail, Twin Lakes, CO
Kroenke Lake Trail, Buena Vista, CO
Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).