There we learned that the Arkansas River runs through town and there is a large park on one side of the river and the Whipple Trail System on the other. Named for Barbara Whipple (1920-1989), she was an artist (who co-founded the Chaffee County Council of the Arts) and loved the outdoors. She captured the beauty of the Buena Vista area in her art.
The Arkansas River is well-know for its whitewater rafting (and kayaking) opportunities. The Collegiate Peaks (Mount Yale, Mount Columbia, and Mount Harvard) can be seen in the distance.
Mountain bikers are also permitted on the trail (and dogs, too!)
We came upon this abandoned mine on the mountain above the river.
Lots of huge boulders can be seen along the trail. And there are great views of the Arkansas River from various viewpoints.
After our hike, our sweet doggie, Sadie, went for a swim. It’s one of her favorite things to do!
Once a small railroad and mining town, Buena Vista has become a thriving tourist attraction. In 1974, the first whitewater rafting outfitter opened. By 2000, 300,000 people went rafting annually generating $60M in tourism for the town. The rapids are rated from Class I to Class V on the Arkansas, so outfitters offer rafting trips for all skill levels.
Before returning to the RV park, we stopped at the House Rock Kitchen for a bite to eat and a drink.
What a lovely day!
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