Salida and the Arkansas Valley have it all. Enjoy paved road riding on your motorcycle and for dirt bike riders there is the Rainbow Trail. As Colorado natives, we know Central Colorado. Lee grew up just two hours east of here. Salida makes a great base for Central Colorado motorcycle rides. This area is called the "crossroads of the Rockies" for good reason.

From Salida, you can ride north to Leadville, Aspen and/or Vail. Ride east to Pueblo or Colorado Springs. In just 2.5 hours be in Denver. Riding south gets you to the beautiful San Luis Valley, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Crestone. Ride west to Monarch Pass, Gunnison, Crested Butte, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Other great motorcycle rides from Salida:

Salida over Independence Pass to Aspen - A short trip up north takes you to Independence Pass and on to Aspen. This is an easy one day ride in the summer - over and back is about 140 miles round trip including spectacular twisties up and down Independence pass.

Salida to Westcliffe and the Royal Gorge - A super loop ride over great roads with interesting views and no traffic, about 200 miles. Great twisty riding through spectacular canyon and river scenery.

From Westcliffe, take Hwy 96 east toward Florence - for a great detour, take Hwy 165 south 12 miles to Bishop's Castle. An amazing castle constructed by one man over 40 years.

Salida Colorado to Sand Dunes National Park - The Great Sand Dunes National Park is spectacular. Very large white sand dunes located at the base of the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Great ride, on open roads, down the length of one of Colorado's most spectacular mountain ranges - about 180 miles round trip.

Salida Colorado to Monarch Pass and the Scenic Tram - For a short evening ride, we head to Monarch Pass (11,812 ft). It's a quick 40 miles round trip on a great road with lots of views, two lanes, and not much traffic. Ride the tram to the top and view spectacular mountain ranges.