Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Rainbow Trail
This historic trail traverses the eastern slope of the Sangre de Cristo range, stretching over
100 miles all the way from the Continental Divide near Salida to Music Pass south of
Westcliffe. It's a multi-use trail in places, open to hikers, horseback riding, mountain bik-
ing and ATVs, though there are plenty of solitary sections and it certainly makes for an in-
teresting through hike.
Wherever you go, you'll likely cross it at some point. Check with the Salida ranger of-
fice (
Click here
)
for various options.
HIKING, MOUNTAIN BIKING
Other Activities
In addition to horseback riding, mountaineering and biking, fishing in the high alpine
lakes is another popular pursuit (license required).
Bear Basin Ranch
( 719-783-2519;
www.bearbasinranch.com
; 473 County Rd 271; half-day $60, full-day incl lunch $120)
Eleven
miles east of Westcliffe, this ranch offers horseback rides on its extensive property in the
Wet Mountains. All-day and multiday trips into the mountains are also available.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Festivals & Events
High Mountain Hay Fever
MUSIC
Bluegrass Festival
(
www.highmountainhayfever.org
;
mid-Jul)
This town loves bluegrass, and this festival is a
chance to see some of the best 'grass heads' in Colorado.
Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo
(
RODEO
mid-Jul)
A rodeo and parade are the featured events at the Custer County Fair.
Jazz in the Sangres
( mid-Aug)
Young jazz artists perform both day and night at this jazz festival, the culmin-
ation of a week-long jazz performance camp that draws students from around Colorado.
MUSIC
Sleeping
