Buena Vista’s top tours deliver authentic Colorado experiences without tourist traps. Two standouts from Salida Walking Tours shine: The Ghost & Murder Tour reveals fascinating local haunts, while the Outlaws, Whores & History Tour captures the town’s wild west character through well-preserved architecture. For outdoor action, I love Dvorak Expeditions’ rafting trips – they’ve mastered the Arkansas River runs from intense Class IV rapids at The Numbers to the more relaxed Salida Canyon stretch. Their expert guides and quality equipment make these adventures both safe and memorable. Let’s check out my favorite tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- The Outlaws, Whores & History Tour offers a 98% traveler recommendation for exploring Salida’s architecture, culture, and notorious legends through informative stories and hidden secrets.
- The Half-Day Arkansas River – The Numbers Rafting Tour provides a thrilling whitewater experience with Class IV rapids, suitable for adventurous individuals aged 16+.
- The Half-Day Arkansas River – Salida Canyon Rafting Tour showcases the scenic beauty and Class II rapids in Buena Vista, suitable for families, kids, and adults with moderate physical challenge.
- The 1-Day Arkansas River – Salida Canyon Rafting Tour offers a thrilling 1-day rafting excursion along Salida Canyon, ideal for beginners and families with gentle Class II rapids.
- The Ghost & Murder Tour in Salida explores the town’s haunted past, red light district, and murder locations, with a 97% recommendation rate and accessibility for families and history enthusiasts.
Ghost & Murder Tour by Steves Original Salida Walking Tours
The Ghost & Murder Tour by Steves Original Salida Walking Tours takes participants on a spellbinding journey through Salida’s haunted past.
With 121 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this self-guided audio tour explores the city’s infamous red light district and murder locations.
Starting at Mandala Collective and ending at Riverside Park, the tour offers unlimited access to its captivating narratives.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling, highlighting the fun atmosphere and unique historical insights.
Suitable for families, couples, and history enthusiasts, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it an exceptional way to spend an evening in Salida.
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Outlaws, Whores & History Tour by Steves Original Salida Walking
Offering a captivating glimpse into Salida’s wild west history, the Outlaws, Whores & History Tour by Steves Original Salida Walking immerses guests in the town’s storied past.
With 98% traveler recommendation, this small-group walking tour showcases the area’s architecture, culture, and notorious legends. Experienced guides share informative stories and hidden secrets, covering everything from brothels and saloons to shootouts.
Travelers can access an audio tour application with offline content, maps, and GPS data, allowing them to explore at their own pace.
Although not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.
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Half-Day Arkansas River – The Numbers Rafting Tour
This half-day rafting tour along the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado, allows adventurers to experience the exhilarating Class IV rapids known for hosting world-class kayak competitions.
Recommended for physically fit individuals aged 16 and above, the tour provides all necessary equipment, including personal flotation devices and rain gear.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small-group excursion departs in the morning or afternoon and returns to the meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour operates in all weather conditions, and gratuities are included.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 8 reviews, the tour offers a thrilling whitewater experience for those seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure.
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Half-Day Arkansas River – Salida Canyon Rafting Tour
A half-day rafting adventure on the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado, the Salida Canyon Rafting Tour allows adventurers to experience the area’s scenic beauty and Class II rapids.
The tour departs from Nathrop and includes professional guides, all necessary equipment, and transportation. Suitable for families, kids, and adults, the tour offers a moderate physical challenge and stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Optional souvenir photos and videos are available for purchase. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour has received excellent reviews, with guests praising the knowledgeable guide and overall enjoyable experience.
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1-Day Arkansas River – Salida Canyon Rafting Tour
Adventurers can embark on a thrilling 1-day rafting excursion along the Arkansas River’s Salida Canyon during this tour.
Ideal for beginners and families with kids, the tour offers the choice to navigate gentle class II rapids or simply enjoy the scenic beauty.
All necessary equipment and a picnic lunch are included. Located between Salida and Buena Vista, Colorado, the meeting point is at Dvorak Expeditions’ main base, with ample parking available.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour requires only a moderate level of physical fitness.
With a rating of 5 stars from 1 review, this tour provides an engaging and accessible way to experience the Arkansas River’s Salida Canyon.
Read our full review: 1-Day Arkansas River – Salida Canyon Rafting Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Buena Vista offers a variety of thrilling tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re fascinated by the town’s haunted past or seeking an adrenaline-filled rafting adventure, there’s something for all. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery, these tours provide an immersive experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in this charming Colorado destination.