The area abounds with four season recreational opportunities, with the Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area and the Arkansas River leading the list. An abundance of Colorado’s fabled powder snow accumulates an Monarch with an average snowfall of 350 inches annually. This along with its varied terrain and short lift lines make Monarch a favorite.

The whitewater rafting on the Arkansas river is considered to be some of the best in the country. featuring the exciting Brown’s Canyon and the challenging Royal Gorge. The San Isabel and Gunnison National Forests offer an extensive variety of well maintained hiking and mountain bike trails as well as numerous campgrounds. Hunting, fishing, mountain climbing, cross country skiing, horseback rides, jeep and snowmobile tours into the backcountry are all part of the Rocky Mountain experience. Add to this the historic downtown of Salida, a public golf course and a hot springs pool.

With the spectacular fall colors capping the list, it is easy to see why the Heart of the Rockies is an all season vacation destination. All of this within a short radius of Wood’s Ridge.