I recently stumbled upon Salida, Colorado, and let me tell you—this little mountain town is an absolute gem! Nestled in the Rockies and sitting along the Arkansas River, it’s a place where adventure and relaxation perfectly come together. My main reason for visiting? The Salida River wave. I’d heard about river surfing before, but trying it here was next level. Who knew you could ride endless waves in the middle of the mountains?

The vibe on the river was just as cool as the sport itself. People of all ages and abilities were out there, from seasoned surfers throwing tricks to beginners finding their balance. The community is super friendly, and the atmosphere is laid-back and inclusive. Whether you’re shredding or just watching from the bank, the energy is electric. Surfing a river feels more creative and chill than the ocean, but don’t let that fool you—it’s just as fun, if not more so. The fact that this little town has its own surf spot is mind-blowing!

I learned that the Salida River wave wasn’t always a surfing spot. It was actually part of a whitewater park designed for kayakers and rafters, but it didn’t take long for surfers to catch on. With a little engineering magic, the Arkansas River now has this killer wave, making it a prime spot for water sports year-round. The history is cool, but the real win is how it brings people together for a fun, shared adventure.

Don’t have your own gear? No problem! I swung by Salida Mountain Sports on F Street and picked up a river surfboard for just $25, plus a wetsuit for $15 (trust me, the river can be chilly!). For $40 total, I was all set for the day. Another cool spot is Riverboat Works on G Street, where you can rent a board for $30 and grab any extra gear like paddles or helmets for around $10 each. Both places are super close to the wave, so it’s easy to gear up and get out there!

After a full day of surfing, I wanted a place where I could kick back and really soak in the mountain vibes. That’s when I found Tata River Cabins, and specifically, Cabin seven, the Arkansas River Cabin. It’s only a 15-minute drive from the wave, which is perfect because, let’s face it, after a day on the water, you’re ready to relax.
‍
This cabin is an absolute dream. It sits right on the banks of the Arkansas River, so you can fall asleep to the sound of rushing water. The western-themed decor gives it a cozy, rustic feel, and it has two full-size beds with a half wall for privacy, a bathroom, kitchen, and a super comfy seating area. But the best part? The wraparound porch. After surfing, I just sat out there, watching the river and soaking up the peacefulness. No TV, no distractions—just me, nature, and the sounds of Colorado.

Tata River Cabins is perfect for anyone wanting to unplug and experience the real outdoors. There’s even bocce ball, horseshoes, and a pond to explore, and you’re minutes away from hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. Oh, and did I mention it’s pet-friendly? You can bring your dog along for the adventure! Cabin Number Seven has everything you need for an epic getaway. It’s like having your own little slice of Colorado heaven, just a stone’s throw from Salida’s river wave.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in the mountains with some unexpected thrills, Salida and Tata River Cabins should be at the top of your list. Trust me, you won’t regret it.