Known for rafting and fishing, Salida Colorado is called the “Heart of the Rockies.” With the Arkansas River winding its way through the picturesque mountain town next to some of the highest peaks in that state, you will find a concrete playground in the center of downtown Salida that has made a big impact on this little mountain town. But, there is more to surf than the Arkansas River; for thrills and spills, head over to Salida’s favorite local Skate Park.
Salida’s Skatepark got a complete overhaul over the last year thanks to a passionate community and some familiar faces. The old skate park located in Downtown Salida was one of the first parks in Colorado and still is well-loved by locals and visitors alike. However, Salida’s New Skatepark, located next to the aquatic center on Holman and Hwy 50, is ushering in a new generation of skateboard enthusiasts.
Friends of Salida Skateparks (FOSS), a community volunteer group composed of local skaters, bmxers, and park supporters of all ages, began to organize their efforts and spent the next 18 months creating a plan through grassroots fundraising and community backing. As a result, with the support from elected city officials and staff as well as volunteer work from FOSS, the city of Salida was awarded a $350,000 Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) grant in March 2020 and a $10,000 grant from Tony Hawk’s non-profit organization The Skatepark Project for construction of the new 14,000 square foot skatepark located in Centennial Park. In addition, after the project, FOSS donated $25,000 towards the design and construction costs to Salida City.
In August of 2021, the new Salida Skatepark officially opened to its first visitors. Phase one of the new Park includes more skateable areas and halfpipes, pedestrian walkways connecting the park to the Salida Aquatic Center, and most notably, a new “heart” in the center of downtown. The first visitors to the new Salida Skatepark were Professional Skater, and Salida local Derek Scott shared his love of skating and what the park has meant to him and his professional career.
The park is free to all ages, abilities, and disciples (BMX, skateboard, scooters, rollerblades, and skates) and is open every day 30 minutes before sunrise and 60 minutes after sunset. If you want to try it out and need rental equipment, stop by the local skate shop Ramps and Alleys at 645 E Rainbow Blvd. for all your skate and safety needs. The park is family friends and includes a playground for those who aren’t quite ready for the halfpipe.
Competitions, lessons, and events are scheduled throughout the year. Be sure to stay connected to what’s happening at the Salida Skatepark online. Don’t stop there! There are plenty of other ways to support Salida’s Skatepark. Friends of Salida Skateparks (FOSS) is currently securing funds to begin Phase 2 of the project with the addition of landscaping, trees, shade, bike racks, lighting, and benches. Donate today, and we can’t wait to see you out there! Be sure to stay at Creekside Chalets when you come to town and visit the skatepark.