Stay in the heart of Colorado adventure this summer at Loyal Duke Lodge, your cozy Salida basecamp for Arkansas River floats, whitewater rafting, wildflower hikes, hot springs, mountain biking, scenic drives, and warm-weather fun in the Upper Arkansas Valley.
From June through September 2026, Salida comes alive with signature summer events, river festivals, live music, craft beer, local art, rodeo traditions, and easy access to nearby outdoor destinations like Browns Canyon National Monument, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, and Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Whether you are visiting for FIBArk, planning a relaxing hot springs getaway, floating the Arkansas River, or exploring Colorado mountain trails, our summer packages help you make the most of Salida’s sunniest season.
Enjoy a carefree day on the Arkansas River with two tubes, two branded dry bags, and two custom water bottles — everything you need to float, relax, and soak up the Salida sunshine.
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Set out on a Salida adventure with a curated list of wildflower hikes, a flower tracking journal, Polaroid camera to capture the views, and two lodge shirts to remember your journey.
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Relax and recharge with two adult passes to the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center, a curated list of wildflower hikes, locally sourced aromatherapy bath salts with a lavender sachet, and two refreshing kombucha or green tea beverages.
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Downtown Salida & Riverside Park
Salida’s signature summer event, FIBArk, returns June 18–21, 2026 with whitewater races, river events, live music, a carnival, vendors, a parade, and the legendary Hooligan Race. It is widely known as America’s oldest whitewater festival, and 2026 marks another major year for this long-running Arkansas River tradition.
Riverside Park
The 30th Annual Colorado Brewers Rendezvous takes over Riverside Park on Saturday, July 11, 2026, bringing more than 60 Colorado craft breweries to downtown Salida with views of the Arkansas River and Collegiate Peaks. VIP entry begins at noon, with general admission from 1–5 p.m.
Chaffee County Fairgrounds, Salida
A classic high-country summer tradition, the 2026 Chaffee County Fair & Rodeo runs July 24–August 1 at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds in Salida. Expect a full fair experience with rodeo energy, 4-H, livestock, community events, and family-friendly fairgrounds fun
Enjoy 1,200 feet of the Arkansas River in downtown. Cross the bridge and spend an afternoon beside the Arkansas at Salida Whitewater Park. It’s the easiest way to experience mountain views, moving water, and the best of Salida in summer.
Summer is hiking season in Salida. Explore the Arkansas Hills or Methodist Mountain for a great view over the town.
Browns Canyon National Monument
For guests who want a bigger outing, the Browns Canyon and the Arkansas Headwaters corridor is the place to be. this Peak summer rafting and prime Salida scenery meet for the perfect day in the Arkansas Valley.
Float the Arkansas, hike wildflower trails, catch a festival in Riverside Park, and end the day with hot springs, mountain views, and a comfortable stay.
