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Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway: Salida Entrance

Discover Colorado's majestic Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway near Salida: A stunning drive through the heart of the Rockies with unmatched natural beauty.

The Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway, starting near Salida, Colorado, offers stunning views of the Sawatch Range and access to numerous outdoor activities. This 57-mile route is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

A brief summary to Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway: Salida Entrance

Local tips

  • Visit during the fall for breathtaking views of the aspen trees changing colors.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River.
  • Plan for extra time to explore the various hiking trails and scenic overlooks along the byway.
  • Check the weather conditions before you go, especially during the winter months.
  • Consider renting a Jeep or ATV in Salida or Buena Vista to explore the surrounding off-road trails.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Salida, the entrance to the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway is easily accessible. Simply head north on US-50, which turns into US-285. The byway is well-marked, and the initial stretch offers immediate views of the surrounding mountains and the Arkansas River Valley. There are no tolls or mandatory access fees to begin the drive. Parking is available at various scenic overlooks and trailheads along the initial segment of the byway.

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Discover more about Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway: Salida Entrance

The Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway, with an entrance near Salida, Colorado, is a 57-mile journey through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Designated in 2005, the byway connects Salida to Granite, showcasing the natural and historical beauty of Chaffee County. The route is named for the towering peaks of the Sawatch Range, many of which are named after Ivy League universities: Mounts Oxford, Harvard, Columbia, Yale, and Princeton. As you embark from the Salida entrance, the byway quickly immerses you in a landscape of towering mountains, pristine ranchlands, and the flowing Arkansas River. This area is known as the Heart of the Rockies, offering a mild climate and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The byway itself follows an old stagecoach route through canyons carved by the Arkansas River. Along the route, you'll find numerous points of interest, including historic sites, ghost towns, and scenic overlooks. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area and Browns Canyon National Monument are easily accessible, offering world-class whitewater rafting, fishing, and hiking. The byway is particularly stunning during the autumn months when the aspen trees display their golden colors. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor adventure, or simply breathtaking scenery, the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway offers an unforgettable Colorado experience.

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