Salida, Colorado

Salida has the largest historic district of any town in Colorado.  The Arkansas River knifes through the downtown area.  Its Class 2-5 rapids make it a popular spot for kayakers.  In 2004, Outside Magazine described Salida as a "sweet unpretentious town" and was nominated one of its 20 Dream Towns and Adventure Hideouts.  With mountain ranges on three sides, this moderately mild climate gives the town its moniker as Colorado's 'Banana Belt'.