The Upper Arkansas River Valley or the Ark Valley, located between the Sawatch and Mosquito
Mountain Ranges, offers the very best that Colorado has to offer. However, the late summer
season is an exciting time because the river swell has calmed, the trails are dry, and the
evenings are cool, which makes perfect conditions for enjoying the many outdoor activities of
the area.
River Surfing
River activities are nothing new to the area, with miles of world-class whitewater rapids to kayak
or raft down. However, in the late season, when the river has calmed, river surfing becomes the
popular activity of choice. The renowned Scout Wave of Salida, CO, is an awesome artificial
wave where you can see locals shedding during all hours of the day. Buena Vista also has
beginner-friendly waves, such as the Staircase Rapid.
Mountain Biking
In late summer, the plethora of mountain bike trails that the area offers, including S Mountain,
Methodist Mountain, and Midland Hill, are dry and fast, providing some of the best riding
conditions. Also, the Monarch Crest, a 36-mile backcountry IMBA Epic that ascends to 12,000ft,
is open for a short window before the first fall snow arrives.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing in the valley can be done in any season, including winter, but late summer is
especially great because the cooler temperatures and fleeting sun make the rock sticky,
allowing for better friction. Visiting local spots such as Bob’s Rock, Monitor Rock, or the remote
walls of Davis Face offers great single and multi-pitch climbing of all difficulties.
14er Hiking
Colorado is known for its mountains, but specifically, it is known for the number of mountains
that extend beyond 14,000ft. The Sawatch Mountains, which tower over the Arkansas River,
include 15 of the state’s 14ers, including Mt. Elbert, the state’s tallest mountain. Hiking a 14er is
challenging, but none of the Sawatch 14ers require technical climbing, and they all have trails
that reach the summit. But make sure to start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
Camping
Camping in the late summer is the best time to camp in the valley because the temperatures are
starting to cool off, and the crowds are minimal. The Upper Arkansas River Valley has an
immense amount of camping, including dispersed camping, National Forest campsites, BLM
land campgrounds, and private campgrounds. Enjoying a summer sunset from camp in the
heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is a special experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Regardless of your taste for adventure, the Upper Arkansas River Valley has much to offer
outdoor recreationists of all skill levels in the late summer season. Suppose these activities
sound fun, and you are up for the adventure. In that case, the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center
(RMOC) has a complete staff of outdoor guides who would be excited to teach you how to surf,
climb, or bike on the local mountains and rivers—looking for camping? RMOC also has the
Good View Campground with riverside sites to accommodate your family or group needs. If you
want to book a guided experience or learn more about what the valley has to offer, visit our
website by clicking here.
