Poncha Springs Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Poncha Springs, Colorado and discover the best natural attractions, outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Poncha Springs

Nestled in South Central Colorado, Poncha Springs is a hidden gem that boasts breathtaking scenic views of Rocky Mountains and offers an array of outdoor activities and adventures. Its convenient location, only a few hours away from Denver and accessible via major highways, makes it a popular weekend getaway destination. This small town of around 700 residents is renowned for its natural beauty, culture, history, and welcoming locals.

List of Places to Visit in Poncha Springs

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Salida Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the town of Salida and the surrounding area, from early indigenous people, to mining and railroad periods, to current day. It features exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that bring the history of the region to life.
  • The Historic Hutchinson Ranch: A living example of rural Colorado heritage, Hutchinson Ranch is an 85-acre ranch homesteaded in 1867 by John and Mary Hutchinson. The site includes historic buildings such as the ranch house, granary, and blacksmith shop.
  • Poncha Springs Town Hall and Community Center: The community center hosts many events, concerts, art shows, and fairs throughout the year, as well as a farmers’ market every Tuesday evening from late May to early October.

Natural Attractions of Poncha Springs: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monarch Mountain: This ski resort and summer destination offers an array of outdoor activities, including downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, disc golfing, and horseback riding in the summer.
  • Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area: This area includes the upper Arkansas River and four state parks: Lake Pueblo, Eleven Mile, Spinney Mountain, and Arkansas Headwaters. The Arkansas River is popular for rafting, kayaking, and fishing, while the state parks offer camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
  • Poncha Pass: This scenic mountain pass, with an elevation of over 9,000 feet, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing, as well as hiking and snowmobiling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Poncha Springs

  • Colorado Trail: This 500-mile trail from Denver to Durango passes through Poncha Springs and offers a variety of terrains and scenery, including forests, mountains, lakes, and canyons.
  • Rainbow Trail: This 100-mile trail traverses the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and provides breathtaking views of the Great Sand Dunes and the San Luis Valley.
  • Monarch Crest Trail: This 35-mile trail, with elevations ranging from 11,000 to 12,000 feet, is known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and offers some of the best mountain biking in the country.

Best Things to Do in Poncha Springs: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs: Poncha Springs is home to natural hot springs that offer relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation. Some of the most popular hot springs in the area are Mount Princeton Hot Springs, Cottonwood Hot Springs, and Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
  • Guided Fishing Tours: The Arkansas River and its tributaries offer some of the best fly-fishing opportunities in the country, with an abundance of trout, salmon, and other species. Guided fishing tours are available for all skill levels.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the scenic trails of the Rocky Mountains on horseback, with experienced guides and gentle horses. Several local ranches offer horseback riding tours and lessons.
  • Whitewater Rafting: The Arkansas River, with its thrilling rapids, provides an unforgettable whitewater rafting experience. Several local companies offer guided rafting tours for all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Poncha Springs

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Poncha Springs and check in at the Mountain Goat Lodge
2 Take a guided fishing tour on the Arkansas River
3 Explore the Monarch Crest Trail on a mountain biking adventure
4 Relax in the natural hot springs at Mount Princeton Hot Springs
5 Visit the Salida Museum and the Historic Hutchinson Ranch
6 Take a horseback riding tour in the Rocky Mountains
7 Raft down the Arkansas River on a whitewater rafting tour

Food and Drink Scene of Poncha Springs

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chili: This savory dish is a staple of Colorado cuisine, made with green chili peppers and meat or vegetables.
  • Rocky Mountain Oysters: Also known as prairie oysters, these deep-fried bull testicles are a unique delicacy of the Rocky Mountains.
  • Wild Game: Venison, elk, buffalo, and quail are popular meats in Colorado, and are often prepared in stews, roasts, or grilled dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Colorado is home to some of the top craft breweries in the country, with a variety of styles and flavors. Some of the most popular local breweries are Elevation Beer Company, Three Barrel Brewing Company, and Amicas.
  • Wine: Colorado’s wine industry has been growing in recent years, with over 140 wineries located throughout the state. The Salida Wine Festival, held every summer, is a popular event for wine lovers.

Where to Stay in Poncha Springs: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mountain Goat Lodge: This bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and cabins, hot tubs, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Salida Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel in nearby Salida offers dormitory-style rooms, a kitchen, a lounge, and outdoor spaces.
  • Antlers on the Creek: This luxurious guesthouse in nearby Durango offers elegant rooms and suites, a creek-side deck, and a gourmet breakfast.

What to Buy in Poncha Springs: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artwork: Poncha Springs and the surrounding area are home to many talented artists and artisans, with a variety of styles and mediums. Some popular art galleries are the Articipate Gallery, Gallery 150, and the Wooden Nickel Art Works.
  • Local Produce: The farmers’ market, held every Tuesday in Poncha Springs and every Saturday in Salida, offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and other local products.
  • Outdoor Gear: Poncha Springs has many outdoor gear shops that offer equipment for hiking, skiing, fishing, and other activities. Some popular shops are Salida Mountain Sports, Browns Canyon Outfitters, and Absolute Bikes.

Local Culture and Customs of Poncha Springs

Poncha Springs and the surrounding area have a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of indigenous, mining, railroad, and ranching traditions. The locals are proud of their history and culture, and enjoy sharing it with visitors. The community is known for its hospitality, friendliness, and love of the outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Poncha Springs

The best time to visit Poncha Springs is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities and events are in full swing. The fall foliage season, from mid-September to early October, is particularly beautiful, with dazzling displays of orange, yellow, and red leaves.

Do’s and Don’ts of Poncha Springs

Do:

  • Do respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Do bring appropriate clothing and gear for the outdoor activities.
  • Do explore the natural beauty and scenic views of the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t pass up the chance to soak in the natural hot springs.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen at high elevations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Poncha Springs

Poncha Springs is a safe and peaceful town, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any outdoor destination, visitors should be aware of the risks associated with hiking, biking, skiing, and other activities. Always carry appropriate gear, such as maps, flashlights, and first aid kits, and be prepared for emergencies.

Health in Poncha Springs

Poncha Springs is located at a high elevation, and visitors may experience altitude sickness, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It is important to drink plenty of water, rest frequently, and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days. Visitors with pre-existing medical conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before traveling.

Getting to Poncha Springs: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Poncha Springs

  • Colorado Springs Airport (COS): Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes northeast by car.
  • Denver International Airport (DEN): Approximately 3 hours north by car.

Bus Stations Near Poncha Springs

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Salida: Approximately 5 miles east of Poncha Springs.
  • Bustang Bus Station in Buena Vista: Approximately 20 miles north of Poncha Springs.

Other Options

  • Driving: Poncha Springs is accessible via major highways, including US-50 and US-285. Parking is available at most attractions and accommodations.
  • Ridesharing Services: Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but may have limited availability.
  • Bicycle: The Colorado Trail and other trails are accessible by bicycle, but visitors should be prepared for steep grades and rugged terrain.

How to Get Around in Poncha Springs

The best way to get around Poncha Springs and the surrounding area is by car, as public transportation is limited. Several car rental agencies are located in Salida, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transportation, particularly in the summer months.

Where to Go Next from Poncha Springs: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Great Sand Dunes National Park: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes south by car, this park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, as well as hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and camping.
  • Aspen: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes north by car, this world-renowned ski resort town offers exceptional skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor recreation, as well as upscale shopping, dining, and culture.
  • Royal Gorge Bridge and Park: Approximately 2 hours northeast by car, this park features the highest suspension bridge in the United States, as well as zip lining, aerial gondolas, and other thrill rides.

Conclusion

Poncha Springs, with its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, and exploration in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re a hiker, skier, angler, or history buff, you’ll find something to love in this enchanting town. Plan your trip now and get ready to experience the best of Poncha Springs, Colorado!