Location: Salida

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Leadville Train

Leadville Railroad

Leadville Train – All Aboard

326 E 7th St, Leadville, CO 80461

Welcome aboard the Leadville Railroad or aka the Leadville Train. Join us for a Colorado adventure you willLeadville Train Canyon not forget. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the Leadville Railroad is a scenic train trip that provides 2 and 1/2 hours of sightseeing, relaxation, and a little glimpse back in history.

The Leadville Railroad travels north parallel the Arkansas River Valley. Gaining almost 1,000 ft. in Elevation. As you travel, spectacular views of Freemont Pass and the two tallest peaks in Colorado, Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert, show themselves. You will travel through pine forests, aspen groves and view high alpine meadows sprinkled with an array of colorful wildflowers in mid-summer. Bring your camera to try to capture a picture of an eagle, deer, marmots, and even elk.

During the train ride, the conductor will share stories about the history of the railroad, ghost stories, and tales of the wild west. Leadville, founded in 1877, was part of the silver mining boom era and consequently embodied the dramas of strike-it-rich western towns. When the train stops at an old Steam Engine water tank, passengers are able to get off the train and explore the area. Don’t forget to tour the Caboose and Engine and meet the Engineer!

The Leadville Railroad has operated as a scenic train in Leadville, Colorado, since 1988. Their summer season starts on Memorial Day weekend and trips run through the Holidays and into April. Check out their website for details on specialty summer tours like the wildflower tour and BBQ specials. Fall photo specials, Octoberfest in the fall, and our Holiday and Winter express tours from November to April. Due to the high elevation of this train tour, it’s best to come prepared with jackets, hats, gloves, and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera.

Leadville Train Schedule Leadville Train Caboose

The Leadville Train runs year-round; check their calendar for specific dates. The train ride is approximately two plus hours long.

Leadville Special Trains

The Leadville Train celebrates holidays and events throughout the year with special trains. Their winter Holiday Express Train is a seasonal favorite.

Adventure Combo Packages

Engine & Caboose Rides

Purchase a special add-on ticket for this extraordinary Leadville train experience.

Group Packages Leadville Train Engine

Leadville Train offers special pricing on groups of 20 people or more. They try and accommodate groups with discounts according to their needs. If you have questions or would like to see if your group can be accommodated, give them a call 1-866-386-3936 or contact them for more information.

 

 

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Arkansas River Rafting Trips

Arkansas River Tours

Arkansas River Tours – Whitewater Rafting

Since 1973, Arkansas River Tours has connected over 300,000 guests to the river on fun whitewater rafting adventures. From family-friendly floats and multi-activity packages to advanced Royal Gorge rafting, Arkansas River Tours has a trip for everyone!

Whether planning a family vacation or weekend getaway, whitewater rafting is the perfect activity to tack on a little adventure. Our goal at Arkansas River Tours is to provide premium whitewater rafting experiences through experiential learning and emphasis on safety. From the courteous office staff to the quirky yet professional guides, Arkansas River Tours is sure to make your Colorado adventure a memorable experience.

Choose an Arkansas River Tours Trip

Not sure which trip to choose? Our support staff is available to help. Our most popular trip is the Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting trip. This experience is perfect for families that are looking to “get their feet wet.” For those who have been to Colorado whitewater rafting before, the Royal Gorge river rafting trip is challenging and provides lasting memories for all. Brand new to rafting and not sure where to start? The Cottonwood Family Float trip offers wildlife viewing and an introduction to the river environment. Spending the day in nature with your young ones is the perfect way to eliminate screen time and show them the great outdoors!

Book Your Arkansas River Rafting Trip With Arkansas River Tours!

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River Runners

Raft the Royal Gorge and other famous sections of the Arkansas River. Choose from half-day, full-day and overnight rafting trips on all levels of whitewater.

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Intermediate Bighorn Sheep Canyon

A Raft Masters Adventure

The Passion of Raft Masters

Overview:

Since 1989, Raft Masters has built a reputation as one of Colorado’s premier whitewater rafting outfitters. Based in Cañon City, this locally owned and operated business has been providing memorable experiences for families, adventure seekers, and hosting group events for over 30 years. With an emphasis on safety, comfort, and professionalism, Raft Masters stands out for its attention to detail and personalized service. Whether you’re a first-time floater or a Class V thrill-seeker, you’ll find an adventure tailored to your needs. At Raft Masters, we are all about Fun, Comfort, and Safety!

Tour Options:

  • Half-day “Family Float” (Class I – II) Ideal for families with young children or those seeking a calm introduction to rafting, the Family Float offers a gentle glide along the Arkansas River. This trip features scenic canyon views, potential wildlife sightings, and low-level rapids — all under the guidance of experienced staff. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
  • Mid-level Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Class I–III) A step up in intensity, this trip provides a splashy ride through Class III rapids with stretches of calm water in between. Great for first-timers looking for excitement without high risk, the trip is popular for birthdays, bachelor(ette) parties, and company outings.
  • Full-day and Class V Royal Gorge Adventures – Reserved for experienced or adventurous rafters, this trip is a wild ride through one of Colorado’s most iconic natural canyons. With steep drops and technical rapids, the Royal Gorge trip showcases adrenaline at its best.
  • Multi-day overnight rafting trips

About the Guides and Equipment

All Raft Masters guides are trained in swiftwater rescue, CPR, and first aid, ensuring your safety throughout the adventure. The company provides helmets, wetsuits, paddle jackets, and river shoes at no extra cost, unlike many competitors. This all-inclusive model ensures you’re prepared for any conditions, from spring runoff to mid-summer sun. Their equipment is regularly maintained and upgraded to meet or exceed industry standards.

Extras & Services:

  • Full safety gear supplied (wetsuits, boots, paddle jackets, helmets)
  • Equipment included at no extra charge
  • Open year-round for reservations (rafting season: March–September, depending on water levels)
  • Ideal for groups (schools, team-building, weddings); group rates available
  • Over 700 5‑star TripAdvisor reviews

Notable Features:

  • Family-focused to adrenaline-pumping adventures
  • High safety standards: helmets required, quality gear
  • Large group accommodations and event planning
  • Continuous ownership since 1989
  • Excellent reputation (TripAdvisor ratings)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which Trip Should I Choose? When planning a trip, consider the participants’ ages, physical conditions, trip length, and the type of raft. If you are unsure about what is best for your group, call the office at 719-275-6645. The knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you in selecting the best trip for your group.

  • What should I bring? – Bring or wear a bathing suit or shorts and a shirt made of a sports material, not cotton.

  • When is the best time to go? – There is no “best time” to go rafting. Depending on conditions, our staff will locate the right water to meet your expectations.

  • What About Medical Conditions? – Use common sense and follow instructions provided by your doctor. Rafting is not recommended for persons with serious medical conditions.

  • View all FAQs here.

Still have questions? Give us a call at 719-275-6645.
We look forward to seeing you on the river soon!

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Snowy Colorado Mountains

Colorado Destinations

Unique Colorado Destination

The culturally rich city of Denver and the quiet mountain escape of Aspen are all attractive Colorado destinations. Colorado has a vacation destination for everyone. Are the high mountain peaks calling your name? Get to know Colorado and plan your trip to check off everything on your bucket list. Rafting, skiing, hiking, art shows, concerts, mountain biking, cycling, dining, fishing, mountain retreats, exploring nature, and much more. Coloradoinfo.com has divided Colorado into 3 regions. Each of these regions represents unique characteristics and proximity.

Colorado's cities and towns are as diverse and beautiful as its landscape.

View our interactive regional map of Colorado to take a closer look and find the locations you want to visit.
Check out our Activity Guides to find fun and interesting things to do in Colorado.

Colorado destinations - Gunnison National Forest

The Central Mountains

The heart of the Rocky Mountains spans the state north to south, and is home to the highest elevated cities and towns in the country, which feature over two dozen ski resorts. This region is Colorado’s gem for world-famous ski areas, mountain lifestyle, and activities.

The Rockies Playground, recently named by the Colorado Tourism Office, is the most central region of the Rocky Mountains and includes some of Colorado's most famous resort towns. Due to their close proximity and popularity as ski resorts, the name was chosen to appeal to potential tourists. This region's towns include Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, Dillon and Leadville. However, significant resort towns lie north and south of the playground region, including Steamboat Springs in north-central Colorado. Resort towns in south-central Colorado include: Crested Butte, Monarch, Del Norte, Powderhorn and Wolf Creek. The Central Mountains region captures almost all of the mountain towns north to south, aside from Telluride and Durango.

The Central Mountains region includes several spectacular national forests.national forest in Colorado

All of which include amazing mountain scenery, wildlife, trail systems, nearby camping and towns. From north to south:

The Front Range & Plains

A way of referring to how the plains of Colorado meet the eastern slope of the continental divide.

If you want to watch a Broadway show or enjoy a museum exhibit, you will have the most options in the Front Range. The urban cities of Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs are well known for their performing arts, museums, and cultural festivals.

Don't Miss Front Range Colorado Destination

The Front Range region includes notable attractions such as Estes Park, the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Pikes Peak, a whole family mountain attraction, lies just west of Colorado Springs. Featuring a scenic train, rafting, horseback riding and much more.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an amazing music venue in the foothills west of Denver.

Colorado's Western Slope

The Western Slope is a much more remote experience. Grand Junction is the largest city in the area and is often referred to as a city with a small-town feel. This high plains region is rich in agriculture, canyonlands, and warmer weather. The town of Palisade has both wineries and legendary peaches due to its extended growing season and access to water flowing out of the mountains to the east.

For those looking for a more remote experience should check out Gateway to the south of the Grand Valley. The wide open lands surrounding Gateway are a high desert wonderland with only a trickle of the traffic that comes through Grand Junction.

Northwest Colorado, or The Great West

Features of this area are the national parks such as Dinosaur National Park, the remote Brown’s Park, and the wild horses of the Sand Wash Basin. This area is popular with outdoor enthusiasts offering a variety of camping, RV parks, off-road vehicles, horseback riding, rafting, cycling and exploring in general. While the mountains are melting down, northwest Colorado is in full bloom.

Southwest Colorado, or The Mountain Mesas

Another very diverse region of Colorado with a mix of Colorado destinations and ski resort towns such as Telluride, and Durango. Complemented by Montrose, a very agricultural community but also rich with adventure. In the very southwest corner of Colorado is Cortez. Surrounded by big attractions such as  Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley . Cortez is also the gateway to the Four Corners and the Canyonlands of Utah.

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colorado-antique-shopping

Antique Stores

Colorado Antique Stores

Colorado is loaded with history, and it’s also home to hundreds, if not thousands, of antique stores – so if it’s a piece of the past you’re after, you’ve absolutely come to the right state. Antiques in Colorado are from the Victorian era, roughly from 1837 to 1901, and are known for their ornate and detailed furniture decor.

Florence – The Antique Stores Capital of Colorado

Beautiful little Florence, south of Colorado Springs, is known as the Antique Capital of Colorado, with more than 20 shops on its main street. The town hosts the Junktique Antique Show and Flea Market, which further enhances its reputation as an antique destination. Florence’s downtown area is rich in history, with remnants of its 1800s commercial boom, including the remnants of three railroads and a small depot.

The Antique Row in Denver

Denver has its Antique Row. Located along South Broadway, this historic district spans seven blocks and is home to over 100 merchants, offering a diverse array of shops, services, and dining options. While it is famously known for its concentration of antique dealers, the district has evolved into a thriving commercial and artistic hub, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. These shops are nestled within some of Denver’s oldest and most architecturally significant buildings, adding to the charm and character of the district.

Littleton offers some large showroom options for antique shopping. The Colorado Antique Gallery and The Old Crows Antique Mall offer over 200 different vendors under one roof in expansive showrooms, providing a one-stop shopping experience.

The Antique Trail in Montrose

Montrose has its own Antique Trail, which offers a multitude of different stores all within an easy five-minute drive. It is home to a selection of diverse antique shops featuring an impressive collection of furniture, jewelry, clothing, fine collectibles, and heirlooms.

The Salida Scavenger Hunt

Numerous antique stores fill the town of Salida, creating what they call the Salida Scavenger Hunt. The hunt includes the St. Elmo’s General Store in nearby Nathrop, representing the abandoned mining ghost town of St. Elmo.

Walk Back in Time in Downtown Durango Antique Shops

In addition to the historic 140-year-old Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Durango hosts numerous antique stores and second-hand shops. Many are located close to each other on Main Avenue in downtown Durango, making for a convenient walkable shopping experience.

Shop Colorado’s Antique Stores

People come to Colorado for many reasons, perhaps you’re planning a summer RV tour or spending time in some of Colorado’s mountain towns. While enjoying your time in Colorado, you will discover that looking around for antiques can be easily mixed into your vacation agenda. If Victorian era antiques are your affinity, Colorado is your place!

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Arkansas River in Salida, Colorado

Salida

Find Adventure in Salida, Colorado

Visitors are lured to Salida by the abundance of outdoor activities, art galleries and shops, local history and the natural scenic beauty of the area. Bordered on the west by the Continental Divide and on the east by the Arkansas River, Salida’s location is ideal for both adventure and relaxation. The Arkansas River runs through downtown Salida and is a playground for rafters, kayakers, paddle-boarders and “beach lovers.” For over 70 years Salida has been the site of FIBArk, the nation’s longest-running whitewater-rafting competition held annually in mid-June. Check out more river festivals here and be a part of the river community. The fishing along the Arkansas River is recognized as a Gold Medal designation with the highest quality cold-water habitat for fish.

Salida is the closest town to the Monarch Ski Area which sits directly west of Salida near the top of Monarch Pass on U.S. Highway 50. While in the winter Monarch Pass offers the closest lift served skiing to Salida in the summer both Monarch and Poncho Pass to the south of town offer access to great cycling and hiking trails once the snow has melted off. The famous Monarch Crest trail starts from the top of Monarch pass and finishes in Salida for a full day of epic mountain bike riding and Marshall Pass to the south of town hosts the Great Divide mountain bike route for people who want to tour from Canada to Mexico. The area around Salida has good gravel and road riding opportunities as well.

Salida is also a great place to relax, with spas, wellness centers, and hot springs. The historic downtown Creative District is packed with art galleries, restaurants, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, antique shops and all types of boutique shopping, all in easy walking distance. Treat the kids and yourself to the adventures awaiting in family-friendly Salida.

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