The next stop on the maiden voyage was Buena Vista, CO
We loved Buena Vista. I had always heard that it was an amazing place to visit, but I had never understood why. Whenever, we went, there was just not much to see. There is an intersection, on the way to Creede where we always turn where the sign said Buena Vista. As we turned left, it didn’t seem to be more than a barren pile of a few dilapadated buildings and not much else around. I thought that was it. Buena Vista. Hmmm, I didn’t get it.
It wasn’t until this last trip that I have finally figured out what all the fuss is about. What an incredible place! As it turns out, (no pun intended) you have to turn right to actually drive into town. Who knew?!!? Well, everyone but me it seems. Buena Vista is so much more than just a sign along the road where we would turn left and drive on. We had a blast spending a few days here and still didn’t see and do all the things we had hoped, however, reasons to return are always good things.
The Arkansas River that runs through the town was definately of the the highlights. It offered lots of activities from fishing, to tubing, to white water rafting, to river surfing and beyond. There is a very nice hike along the river with excellent views of the town and mountains beyond. The route was a pretty short and easy yet interesting hike. There are different trails you can take, and we took the trail that wound down to the bridge. You can cross the river there and enjoy equally beautiful views on the hike back up to your vehicle as there was on the way way down. This was where we saw the river surfing. We stopped along the trail and watched about 5 or 6 people take turns standing on their boards while riding the rapids.
Our Stay
Snowy Peaks Campgound
Snowy Peak RV Park was great choice in places to stay. At $68 a night, we felt the price was reasonable for the stay. The grounds themselves were well graveled and in good shape. We had a back in site and the neighbors were close, yet all was quiet and went smoothly. The campground was easy to find and the staff was exceptional. They were very friendly, welcoming, and seemed to genuinely care that their customers had a nice experience.
There were activities planned for all those who wanted to participate. Shelby and Ryan partook in the ice cream sundae making, and Shelby and I went to the “Make Your Own Word Bracelet” activity which was surprisingly fun and easy. There was also an ‘All You Could Eat Pancake and Bacon Breakfast’ available on Sunday morning for $5. I believe donuts are provided the other mornings for free until gone. All the food and activities were posted on the chalk board when you drove in.
Although I did not get photos of the campground, I know, I know, the facitlites were very clean and well maintained. The laundry had card operated machines and thr restrooms and shower areas were quite nice. The sites were pretty level and although there was some tree cover, our Starlink hummed along just fine.
We would highly recommend Snowy Peaks if you need a place to park your bed and rest your head while in the Buena Vista area, and rated it 4.5 out of 5 campfires.
Exploring the Area
While we were there, we had a great time. We visted St. Elmo, one of the best perserved ghost towns in Colorado. It was a beautiful winding drive up into the mountains. I was in pure awe of the sheer heighth of the trees along the road. They were a stunning mix of birch, aspens and pines and theywere without a doubt the tallest I have ever seen anywhere in the mountains. I would highly recommend the drive even if it didn’t wind up to St. Elmo.
When you reach St. Elmo, I encourage you to buy the 50 cent bags of sunflower seeds they sell at the General Store and feed the chipmunks across the road. They are very friendly and will come up to eat from your hands. Besides all of that coolness, they’re just plain cute! Take the time to walk down the ghost town streets and read a little about the fascinating history of the area.
St. Elmo
A Fist Full of Dollars and a Few Dollars More Hiking Trail
Buena Vista is FULL of hiking and biking trails, but my recommendation is to try out A Fist Full of Dollars and a Few Dollars More trail. Although it is designed for biking, don’t let that deter you from hoofing it. This couple mile trail has become one my favorites due to it’s easy to moderate level and overall atmosphere. When you are hiking out between the rocks and sagebrush, you really do feel like you could run into Clint Eastwood at any moment. This trail has personality folks, so don’t miss it. I do suggest going in the morning or evening to avoid the heat and bring your camera!
Round Town Dining
Buena Vista is not short on places to eat and we were in the mood for Mexican. We did a Google Search for a good place to get our grub on and decided to try La Herradura Mexican Restaurant. The vibe and atmosphere of La Herradura was pleasant and clean although we chose to eat outside on the patio to enjoy the beautiful day. Just an FYI, they do not allow dogs at all.
Ryan and I ordered House Margs and they were quite good. We also ordered an order of Jalapeños filled with cream cheese wrapped in bacon that was delicious. We are kind of connoiseurs when it comes to those spicy, cheesy little guys, and these were a 9 out of 10. The bacon was crisp all the way through which is a yummy rarity.
Unfortunately, La Herradura peaked at the jalapeños. The rest of the food we ordered was just okay. We ordered enchiladas and burrito and tasted pretty bland. Turns out we should have stocked up on those jalapeños. While, we enjoyed to meal overall, I don’t think we would go again and gave it 3 out of 5 campfires.