Why Colorado

 

Scenery

"Fourteener" Country is aptly named, since we have the greatest population of 14,000 foot mountains (or "fourteeners") anywhere in Colorado. The looming Collegiate Peaks, part of the Continental Divide, stand watch over the western slope of the wide open Arkansas River Valley. To the east lies South Park, a large, high mountain plain, completely surrounded mountains. The area is simply a treasure trove of some the most awe inspiring and historical vistas anywhere in the world.

 

Climate

The high mountains to the west provide a protective barrier, making the valley floor noticably warmer and dryer than the surrounding area.

The valley exhibits a distinct 4 seasons. Spring brings a greening of the valley floor, accented with emerging wild flowers. Summer is comfortably warm and dry, ideal for outdoor activities. Fall is marked by the golden color of Aspen and Cottonwood trees. Winter layers the mountains with white powder, while the valley floor remains relatively mild; this is the season when you hear and understand the term "Banana Belt".

 

Life Style

While Buena Vista, Salida, Leadville, Twin Lakes & South Park have their tourist season (primarily summer), the towns are not typical tourist towns. These are real towns, populated with real people of varying interests and backgrounds. The towns might best be described as small "big" towns. In Fourteener Country, newcomers aren't newcomers for long. Soon after arriving, you will find people calling you by name, as you pass them on the streets of Buena Vista, Salida, Leadville, Twin Lakes, Fairplay, or any of the other numerous small towns and villages in the area.

While small in size, Fourteener Country's towns are not isolated. The valley is a melting pot of demographics. As you have coffee and donuts in the local bake shop, you may find that the person at the next table is a physicist, a photographer, a rancher, builder, or a computer consultant. It really doesn't matter, because they all came here for the same reason ... to enjoy the special quality of life which abounds in Fourteener Country.

 

Recreation

What's you pleasure?... Kayaking & rafting, hiking, mountain biking, camping, photography, four-wheeling, skiing, snow shoeing, snow mobiling? It's all right here, and it's all year long.

In summer, take a guided raft trip (mild or wild) from one of the valley's many rafting companies. In winter, trade your wet suit for a snow suit and go play in the snow. Whether you prefer the roar of a snow mobile, a lift to the top of your favoriate down hill run, or the solitude of cross country, winter is not a time to stay indoors! In fact, in the Banana Belt, traditional summer activities can be enjoyed all year long. The mild, dry weather keeps some of the valley's mountain bike trails passable year around.

 

Shopping

Whether you're out for a sunny afternoon of window shopping, or you need to make a quick trip for something in particular, you'll find Fourteener Country's towns and villages offer everything from art galleries to hardware stores.

 

Culture

Art exhibits, concerts, clubs and special events ... check the FourteenerNet "Events" calendar for your interests.

 

Great Schools

Many of our teachers have Masters Degrees & have won state & national honors. Academic priority is shown by the ACT, Basic & Complete Battery scores - all above the national average. A full compliment of athletic programs help to develop a well rounded student, while creating lots of opportunities for family participation.

 

Commerce

Planning on starting a new business? Be sure to visit the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce, browse the Salida Business Directory & Profile, the South Park Business Directory & Profile, or explore FourteenerNet's sister-site, Leadville.com for a guide to the Leadville, Colorado area.