With stunning mountain views and much to see and do in both summer and winter, the town of Buena Vista in the Colorado Rocky Mountains is a gateway to the natural attractions of the area. There are a range of affordable accommodations – bed and breakfasts, cabins, hotels and resorts. The town of Buena Vista or “Beautiful View” was founded in 1879 and exudes a small town atmosphere and charm.

Buena Vista and its surroundings

The town preserves its 120-year history with many buildings dating back to the 1880s and 90s. With a population of just around 5,000, it welcomes visitors year round. At an elevation of 7,954 feet, the crisp mountain air is invigorating and refreshing, preparing you for outdoor adventure and sightseeing.

The eastern edge of the town is marked by the Arkansas River, with over 100 miles for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. For hikers, the San Isabel National Forest is just minutes away from town. It has over 700 miles of trails, and ghost towns to explore. One of the best-preserved ghost towns in Colorado is St. Elmo, just 30 minutes from Buena Vista.

Things to do, places to stay

Winter brings travelers looking for ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile adventure. Just west of the town are a hundred miles of snowmobile trails on Cottonwood Pass. There are also hot springs and comfortable bed and breakfasts that are destinations themselves.

And of course Colorado is a mountain climbers’ paradise. Buena Vista has the most 14ers in the area, with 10 peaks over 14,000 feet in height. These include Mounts Princeton, Yale, Harvard, and Columbia.

While there are many different kinds of accommodations available, from basic to luxurious, cabins are a popular favorite. They allow visitors to get something of the genuine wilderness experience, which will sustain them when they return to their everyday lives and jobs.