Alamosa 2019 VG-final

How to Have a
MEMORABLE
FAMILY
VACATION
in the San Luis Valley
With its craggy peaks and remote canyons, the
San Luis Valley attracts plenty of hardcore
explorers, but it’s also a fantastic destination for
families. From the Great Sand Dunes to Penitente
Canyon, you’ll find fun activities suited for everyone
in the family, from children to grandparents.
Kids will have a blast zooming down sand dunes and
splashing in thermal pools, and everyone in the family
can enjoy easily accessible campsites with nearby
mellow trails that wind through striking scenery. Plus,
the valley holds unique and unexpected thrills, like
train rides through the rugged mountains and close
encounters with alligators.
To help you plan a trip that will create lifelong
memories for everyone in your family, we’ve picked
out some of the best activities and must-see
destinations in the San Luis Valley.
SANDBOARD ON THE DUNES
With mountains of sand and 30 square miles of desert
surrounded by jagged peaks, Great Sand Dunes National
Park & Preserve is a destination that your family will never
forget. While the scenery makes for awesome family photos,
it’s also a place where everyone can join in some exciting
fun together. Join the kids in hiking to the top of “High
Dune,” which towers nearly 700 feet above the visitor center
and slide back down on a special sandboard. It’s just what it
sounds like: the board looks like a snowboard, but it’s meant
Written by Emma Walker for Matcha in
partnership with Alamosa CVB.
to slide on the rough sand. Rent boards at Kristi Mountain
Sports in nearby Alamosa, and then head to the park.
SOAK IN THE SPRINGS
Just outside of Alamosa there are four privately operated
hot springs, two of which are excellent for families with kids
who can’t wait to splash around. Since 1955, Splashland has
been operating in Alamosa, and it includes three familyfriendly
water slides, plus designated family swim nights.
The water enters the pools at 102 degrees Fahrenheit and
varies from 88 degrees to a balmy 96 degrees.
Another great option is Sand Dunes Recreation, where
the swimming pool is open year round and there are
family swim nights. Plus, the pool has an area for people
21 and older where you can relax with an adult beverage.
In addition to the pool, the recreation complex includes
Fruition Golf, which sports three state-of-the-art golf
simulator bays, a putting green, and a selection of beer and
wine. All of that fun is going to make you hungry, so head
to the on-site Mile Deep Grille for Mexican food, pizza,
sandwiches, burgers, and seafood.
CAMP AT PENITENTE CANYON
Penitente Canyon is best known for rock climbing and
mountain biking, but it also offers easily-accessible camping
photo by: patrick myers-nps
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