As the snow dies down and the water levels rise in Salida, there is one place to escape the hot summer heat. In the heart of downtown Salida is the Arkansas River that spans 1,469 miles from Colorado all the way to the Atlantic sea. Most cities in Colorado have rivers near or close to them, but the Arkansas river feels different. Whether you surf, raft, or even float down the river, it takes you to a different place– all you hear is the rushing water and the people laughing and having a great time. Salida is very fortunate to have this river. The river makes this town more energetic and gives visitors a warm feeling. The summer time in Salida is a trap of heat, rain carnivals and occasionally a dust storm, and without this river Salida would be another copy and paste Colorado town. When I was new to Salida, the most appealing aspect was how the river was always super clear and green, the trees and grass was. You won’t get another town like this in Colorado. With many new houses in Salida being built every month, the river population will be at an all time high.
In Salida, during June, there is a festival named Fibark. As a main part of Salida’s summer, Fibark is what first caught my family’s attention. In 2023, Fibark brought in over 8,000 new people. Many people around the world come to compete in the 4-day long events, like the hill climb, 10k and 5k runs, and the hooligan race. Over the course of 4 days is a carnival park located on riverside park that takes up the whole street. Many people plan vacations and book hotels weeks or even months in advance, or some people camp out by Tenderfoot mountain. Although this only lasts a few days, this event is what makes Salida eventful and every year I look forward to this starting from the time school gets out.
The river is a place for people to hang out and have fun during those hot summer days. The river also helps keep Salida populated and keep business in the downtown area hot. If you want a nice place to go in the hot Colorado summer, the river is the best place to go. If you aren’t into the “river” vibe, Riverside park could also be for you, as many high school students and Colorado bands play on the stage during the summer.
