101 Things 2022

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Things to Do
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Page 2 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
Things To
Do In The San Luis Valley
Top 10
1. SAND DUNES
The Great Sand Dunes National Park features the tallest
sand dunes in the United States. The dune field rising above
the San Luis Valley is framed with the blue peaks of the
Sangre de Cristo mountain range.
During the summer, park rangers organize a number of nature
walks and interpretive programs exploring the dunes’ geology,
history and wildlife. For a more challenging walk, head into
the dune field itself. Whether hiking, sliding, exploring in
a dunes wheelchair — or simply playing — the Great Sand
Dunes are a unique area for all to enjoy.
The visitors center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from
Memorial Day to Labor Day. The center offers an inspiring
film presentation, interactive exhibits, bookstore, first aid
room and back porch with viewing scope.
A number of camping sites, ranging from car and RV areas
to primitive backpacking sites on and off the dune field, are
available.
For more information, call 719-378-6300 or log onto www.
nps.gov/grsa/
2. CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC
RAILROAD
The Cumbres &
Toltec Scenic Railroad
was built in 1880 with
three feet — narrow
gauge — between the
tracks instead of four
feet, eight and a half
inches, the standard in
the United States.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 3
The railroad’s locomotives burn hand-shoveled coal
pulling trains along the highest and longest narrow gauge
track in the United States from Antonito to Chama, N.M.
The railroad gives passengers a unique view of the beauty
of the San Juan Mountains, taking them on a twisty ride
that crosses the Colorado-New Mexico border 11 times
and carries them over 10,015-foot-high Cumbres Pass and
through two tunnels.
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad offers daily
scenic train rides from Chama, New Mexico and Antonito,
Colorado, crossing at historic Osier Station.
Schedules and details about specials and all train rides
are available at www.cumbrestoltec.com or by calling
1-888-Cumbres (286-2737).
3. EARLY IRON FESTIVAL
Hundreds of vehicles
from America’s “early”
years in its love affair
with the automobile
arrive in Alamosa from
all over the United
States for their annual
Labor Day weekend
San Luis Valley Early
Iron Festival, one of
the San Luis Valley’s
largest events featuring more than 600 cars.
This year will mark the 39th anniversary as the event was
cancelled last year. Early Iron welcomes a variety of vehicles
including pickups, custom, street rods, classics and street
machines. See www.earlyironclub.com/
4. SKI HI STAMPEDE
Colorado’s oldest outdoor rodeo, the Ski Hi Stampede
in Monte Vista is a delight for the entire family. This year
will mark the 100th anniversary of the San Luis Valley Ski
Hi Stampede planned July 21-24. Traditionally, there will
be parades beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
The rodeo brings major entertainment and many of the best
cowboys in the country to Monte Vista’s Ski-Hi Arena. Also
enjoy a concert with country star Dwight Yoakam and the Josh
Abbott band, dances, fireworks, carnival and chuckwagon
dinner. For information call 719-852-2055 or see www.
skihistampede.com
5. ALAMOSA ROUND-UP
The 2022 Alamosa
Round-Up, sanctioned
by the Professional
Rodeo Cowboy
Association (PRCA),
is scheduled from
June 23-26 with most
events at the Alamosa
fairgrounds. Events
include ranch rodeo,
barbecue, mutton
bustin, cattle drive and
parade, PRCA rodeo,
rodeo block party, demolition derby and cowboy church. The
highlight will be Saturday with a Round-UP concert featuring
Justin Lawrence, a professional saddle bronc rider and country
music artist. Buy tickets at The Colorado Welcome Center
and Alamosa Big R. See www.alamosaroundup.com

Page 4 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
6. CREEDE REPERTORY THEATRE
Creede Repertory Theatre is a professional theatre
company located in the historic town of Creede. CRT’s
award-winning company produces the best of contemporary
and classic theatre from late May through September. Each
year, CRT produces several plays in rotation, hosts numerous
musical events and concerts, exhibits the best regional artists
in its two lobby galleries, and offers exciting educational
programming. Tickets are available at the box office on 124
N. Main Street in Creede, calling toll free: 866-658-2540
or going to the web site: www.creederep.org
The 2022 season will feature such plays as “Always…
Patsy Cline”, “Steel Magnolias”, “Native Gardens”,
“Sherwood”, “The Royale”, as well as Boomtown improv
comedy.
7. LOS CAMINOS ANTIGUOS
Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway connects many of
the San Luis Valley’s attractions, such as the Cumbres and
Toltec Scenic Railway and the Great Sand Dunes National
Park.
The journey begins on Highway 17 on Cumbres Pass. As
Highway 17 descends into the San Luis Valley, it follows the
Conejos River and several perfect fishing spots. The byway
continues through Conejos, home of the oldest church in
Colorado, then to the De Vargas petroglyph crossing site.
It then leads to Manassa, the home of Jack Dempsey, and
continues east through the foothills of the Sangre de Cristos.
The byway continues into San Luis, the first town in
Colorado. The byway then journeys north to Fort Garland.
As the byway follows the
Sangre de Cristo mountain
range, several natural
wonders await: Zapata
Falls; the Great Sand Dunes
National Park; the historic
Medano Ranch; and the San
Luis Lakes State Park and
Wildlife Area.
The byway then turns
south near two of the Valley’s
more colorful attractions,
the UFO Watchtower and
the Colorado Gators, an
alligator farm just north of
Alamosa on Hwy 17. The
“ancient road” ends its
journey in Alamosa.
100 th Annual San Luis Valley Ski-Hi Stampede
July 21-24 th , 2022 - Monte Vista, Colorado
WORLD CLASS PRCA RODEO
Featuring Andy Seiler, rodeo announcer,
and Stace Smith multiple-year PRCA Stock
Contractor of the year!
LIVE IN
CONCERT!
Nightly
Rodeo
Dances!
Dwight Yoakum & Josh Abbott Band General Admission: $ 45 Pre-Sale
THURSDAY, JULY 21 st Reserved Seating $ 45 • Premium Reserve $ 50
TICKET LOCATIONS: Stampede Ticket Office, Monte Vista
Call (719) 852-2055 or visit www.skihistampede.com

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 5
8. SILVER THREAD
The Silver Thread Scenic Byway passes through some of
the most scenic areas and towns in the San Juan Mountains.
Leaving the town of South Fork, the byway begins its
journey along the Rio Grande. The byway then enters the
Rio Grande National Forest, where it travels through steep
cañons of volcanic tuff before crossing an alpine valley,
home to herds of deer and elk.
Miners built the town of Creede in the spirit of
exploration. Outside the town, a driving tour of the
area’s mining heritage winds through the rugged geologic
formations. Between Creede and Lake City, the highway
passes The Slumgullion Earthflow, a geologic form that
began 700 years ago. The Silver Tread ends at a second
mining town, Lake City.
Splashland Hot Springs
Open Seasonally May - Mid October
Call for Reservations
9. FORT GARLAND
The historic Fort Garland Museum takes visitors back in
time to the era of Kit Carson, commandant of the fort from
1866-1867, and earlier commanders.
The museum features displays of the life of officers and
enlisted men during the years the fort served southern Colorado.
Walk the parade ground of the fort and tour the adobe
buildings, which feature a re-creation of the commandant’s
quarters during Carson’s time. Rich in military history,
Fort Garland also highlights
the folk art and culture of
the Hispanic community in
southern Colorado.
The Fort Garland Museum
and Visitor Center is located
in Fort Garland, 25 miles east
of Alamosa off U.S. Highway
160. The Fort Garland Museum
and Visitor Center is open
year-round. For more information call 719-379-3512.
10. ZAPATA FALLS
Zapata Falls BLM Recreation Area Zapata Falls, a wonder
of nature, is located four miles east of Colorado Highway
150, just south of the entrance to Great Sand Dunes National
Park. From the parking and picnic area it is about a half
mile walk uphill to the falls. The Zapata Falls Campground
provides campsites. A trailhead in the campground supplies a
link to the South Zapata Creek Trail and the Sangre de Cristo
Wilderness. A second trail, just above the campground in the
day-use area, leads visitors on a mildly steep half-mile hike
to the falls that give the campground its name.
OPEN:
Monday-Saturday: 11 am-7 pm
Closed Sunday
Lap Swim:
Monday-Friday: 6-8 am
June & July: Morning Swim Classes 9 - 11 a.m.
5895 Hwy 17 • 1 Mile North of Alamosa • (719) 589-6258
October 15, 2022 Benefit Sprint Triathlon - Part of Great SW Tri Series
Register @ Splashlandllc.com
They Are Out There!
UFO Watchtower
It’s out of this world!
7 Days a Week
10 a.m. until ......
Online Gift Shop - ufowatchtower.com
Including Skywatching & Entertainment
Snippy the Horse on display beginning in June
$5 per person
Camping Sites Available
Hooper, CO • 719-378-2296

Page 6 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
Alamosa County
1 GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK AND
PRESERVE — North America’s tallest dunes rise over 750
feet high against the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
This geologic wonderland, containing over 30 square miles of
massive dunes, became one of the nation’s newest national parks
in September 2004. It also includes alpine lakes and tundra, six
peaks over 13,000 feet in elevation, ancient spruce and pine
forests, large stands of aspen and cottonwood, grasslands, and
wetlands — all habitat for diverse wildlife and plant species.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is located 35 miles northeast
of Alamosa, Colorado, reached by U.S. Highway 160 and State
Highway 150 from the south, or from State Highway 17 and
County Lane 6 from the west. Contact: (719) 378-2020 or
www.nps.gov/grsa
2 ALAMOSA WILDLIFE REFUGE — Alamosa National
Wildlife Refuge, located a few miles east of Alamosa off
Highway 160, is a haven for migratory birds and other wildlife.
This 11,169-acre refuge supports songbirds, water birds,
raptors, mule deer, beaver and coyotes. A two-mile round trip
hiking trail begins at the Visitor’s Center and follows the Rio
Grande. The Bluff Overlook on the eastern side of the refuge
may be reached by car and provides a three and a half-mile
auto tour.
3 ADAMS STATE
UNIVERSITY —
Since its cornerstone
was laid in 1923,
Adams State
University grew from
a teachers’ college
into a fine liberal
arts university. Adams
State University offers
bachelor and master’s
degrees in a multitude
of majors and now
offers a doctoral
program as well. The campus features a new stadium complex
and many other recent physical improvements. View more at
www.adams.edu. In addition, check out numerous opportunities
for youngsters and high school student-athletes to attend sports
camps at ASC by calling 587-7401 or going to ascgrizzlies.com
ASU is celebrating 100 years from 2021 through 2023.
6 ALAMOSA ROUND-UP — The 2021 Alamosa Round-
Up, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association
(PRCA), is scheduled from August 26-29 with most events at
the Alamosa fairgrounds. Events include ranch rodeo, barbecue,
mutton bustin, cattle drive and parade, PRCA rodeo, rodeo block
party, demolition derby and cowboy church. The highlight will
be Saturday with a Round-UP Concert featuring Justin Lawrence,
a professional saddle bronc rider and country music artist. Buy
tickets at The Colorado Welcome Center and Alamosa Big R.
See www.alamosaroundup.com
7 BEAT THE
HEAT BBQ
— One of the
newest events
in Alamosa
County, in its
seventh year,
is the annual
San Luis Valley
Beat the Heat BBQ, a sanctioned Kansas City Barbecue
Society and Rocky Mountain Barbecue Association State
Championship event. It is scheduled for Aug. 5-6. Enjoy
barbecue, live music, cornhole tournament, children’s activities
and more. Contact the Alamosa County Chamber of Commerce
at 589-3681, e-mail chambergrowthdirector@gmail.com or
see www.slvbeattheheat.com.
8 ALAMOSA ART WALK AND DOWNTOWN SCULP-
TURES — Take a walk through downtown Alamosa and see
artists of various different two and three-dimensional mediums
creating one-of-a-kind work, much of which will be displayed
for a tour downtown. An annual celebration featuring local musicians
and performers will also take place at Society Hall. Info:
www.cityofalamosa.org/public-art and www.societyhall.org
9 COLORADO GATORS — Featuring more than 400
gators and other exotic species, Colorado Gators is one of
the most unique attractions in the entire Valley. It is located
north of Alamosa between Mosca and Hooper on Highway
17. Events include gator wrestling, Eggfest in early July and
the Annual Gatorfest in early August. Phone (719) 378-2612
for more information, or see gatorfarm.com
4 TRAILS AND HISTORIC MONUMENTS — The
Alamosa Ranch offers numerous trails featuring opportunities
to see wildlife and historic markers for Wayside, the stagecoach
stop forerunner of Alamosa and the site where Amelia Earhart
landed in a meadow. Trail guides are available at the Colorado
Welcome Center at the train depot in Alamosa.
5 LUTHER BEAN MUSEUM — Located on the Adams State
University campus in Richardson Hall, this museum features
the Woodard Collection of artifacts from around the world and
Native American and Hispanic works of art. Call 587-7151 for
more information. Adams State College campus also hosts the
San Luis Valley Japanese-American Memorial Garden.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 7

Page 8 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
10 ZAPATA FALLS — Zapata Falls BLM Recreation Area
Zapata Falls, a wonder of nature, is located four miles east of
Colorado Highway 150, just south of the entrance to Great
Sand Dunes National Park. From the parking and picnic area
it is about a half mile walk uphill to the falls. The Zapata Falls
Campground provides campsites. A trailhead in the campground
supplies a link to the South Zapata Creek Trail and the Sangre
de Cristo Wilderness. A second trail, just above the campground
in the day-use area, leads visitors on a mildly steep half-mile
hike to the falls that give the campground its name.
custom, street rods, classics and street machines. See www.
earlyironclub.com/
16 SUNDAYS @ SIX —The Alamosa Live Music
Association presents free concerts in Cole Park throughout
the summer. The 2022 series will feature a variety of music
at 6 p.m. on scheduled dates. For more information see
www.almaonline.org
17 RIO FRIO ICE FEST & 5k ON THE FROZEN
RIO GRANDE- Annually celebrated in late January, this
event features live ice sculpting in downtown Alamosa
along with other fun activities. A highlight of the weekend
is a 5k walk/run on the frozen Rio Grande, conditions
permitting.
18 FOURTH OF JULY —Celebrate the 4th of July in
Alamosa on Monday, July 4, beginning with the Kiwanis
pancake breakfast in the morning, 7-10 a.m., followed by
a parade down Main Street at 10. Fireworks are tentatively
planned at dusk at the Alamosa Fairgrounds.
11 SAN LUIS VALLEY ANTIQUE IRON CLUB —
The SLV Antique Iron Club, committed to the preservation,
restoration and promotion of antique agricultural collectibles
by innovative and quality work of current times, hosts several
events throughout the summer including: participation in Ski
Hi Stampede Parade, Covered Wagon Days, SLV Fair, Early
Iron Festival and Potato Festival. Fun Pulls are also planned
on dates TBA. The tractor pull track is located between Monte
Vista and Alamosa at the Alamosa Recreation Park on the
north side of State Highway 160. See www.slvaic.com or call
850-1326 or 850-0072.
12 ENGINE 169 — Located in the pavilion at the east
entrance to Alamosa, the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad
locomotive No. 169 is listed in the Colorado State Register of
Historic Properties. The 10-wheeler narrow gauge, coal-fired
steam locomotive was built in 1883. Hooked to the engine is
the tender and B-1 Business Car, built in 1880.
13 SAN LUIS VALLEY MUSEUM — Displays of Native
American culture, Hispanic settlers, Japanese-American
community, Adams State University, military regalia and early
railroading are featured in this museum located in downtown
Alamosa at 401 Hunt Avenue. It is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday
through Saturday year-round. Call 719-587-0667.
14 SUMMERFEST ON THE RIO — Summerfest on the
Rio is an annual festival held in Alamosa’s Cole Park along the
Rio Grande the first weekend in June. Enjoy delicious food,
entertainment and activities in the park. Summerfest weekend is
jam-packed with live entertainers with something for everyone,
from rock and roll, bluegrass, jazz, Mariachi bands, country, belly
dancers, jugglers, poker fun and more. For more information
go to www.summerfestontherio.org
15 EARLY IRON — Hundreds of vehicles from America’s
“early” years in its love affair with the automobile arrive in
Alamosa from all over the United States for their annual Labor
Day weekend San Luis Valley Early Iron Festival, one of the
San Luis Valley’s largest events featuring more than 600 cars.
This year will mark the 40th anniversary from September 2-4.
Early Iron welcomes a variety of vehicles including pickups,
19 FARMERS MARKET — The Alamosa Farmers’
Market runs Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. July to
October featuring local produce, food, crafts, cooking
demonstrations, educational activities for all ages, and live
music in the parking lot at State and Sixth Streets in downtown
Alamosa and in a second location, the farm park just north of
the Highway 160/17 intersection, Alamosa, on Wednesdays
TBA. See more details at alamosafarmersmarket.org, 719-
480-4365, or alamosafarmermarket@gmail.com.
20 CATTAILS GOLF COURSE — With a beautiful
clubhouse, pro
shop and the new
Reeds at Cattails
restaurant, the
Cattails Golf
Course in
Alamosa has
been praised
throughout the
Rocky Mountain
Region for its
superb condition
and challenging 18 holes. Call 589-9515 to reserve tee
times. Also, enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course adjacent to
Cattails on the Alamosa Ranch.
21 ROLLIN’ DEEP CAR SHOW — Celebrate Father’s
Day with the entire family at Alamosa’s Cole Park with
the free 27th Annual Rollin’ Deep Car Show on Sunday,
July 20, featuring low rider custom cars and motorcycles,
all makes, models and years. Enjoy a pre-hop Saturday
with live music, hop contest and food. The show will run
from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 719-580-3939, 719-274-5224
or 719-580-0541.
22 SACRED HEART CHURCH — The historic Catholic
church on Fourth Street in Alamosa was constructed
between 1922-1928, and is an interesting interpretation of
the Mission style designed by prominent architect Robert
Willison. Step inside to see outstanding murals painted in
the 1940s by German artist Josef Steinhage.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 9
With 11,000 years of documented human habitation, the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area is a crossroads of the centuries. Here a unique
blend of Native American, Hispano and Anglo settlement is reflected in the diversity of the people, art and traditions. The geographic isolation of
our high desert valley and the peoples’ enduring ties to the land have given rise to a rich cultural heritage and ensured its preservation. The area’s
fertile cultural landscape is complemented by remarkable natural resources, including the mighty Rio Grande, majestic Rocky Mountain peaks,
Great Sand Dunes National Park, National Wildlife Refuges, and the high mountain desert, all of which lend the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage
Area an unparalleled beauty that offers a sense of retreat and a powerful source of inspiration for visitors.
LOS CAMINOS ANTIGUOS
SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAY
Take a trip through history on the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic & Historic Byway. This magestic 129-mile route in located
in south centeral Colorado, in the beautiful San Luis Valley. Translated as “the way of the antients”, the byway follows
trails created by the first hunter-gatherers, Native Tribes, and then Spanish explorers looking for land to raise families
and build communities. Experience the same the journey some of the earliest settlers took on horseback and wagons as
you wind your way through Colorado’s oldest towns.
sangreheritage.org

Page 10 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
23 CAT’S CLASSIC
MOTOCROSS — TBA
for 2022- Experience
AMA-Pro Am motocross
action at the Cat’s Classic
Motocross scheduled for
early July at the Sutak
Raceway, 8131 Road 11
South, Alamosa. Sutak
Raceway is a historic
motocross track where
racer/promoter Dwight
Catalano has hosted
numerous events. Visit
catsclassics.com for the schedule and more information.
24 SPLASHLAND — The Splashland Hot Springs
features naturally artesian warm water. The pool is located
just a mile north of Alamosa on Highway 17. Splashland
offers water aerobics, deep water cardio, water yoga and
parent-tot classes. Check out the updated building and
food court. Contact: 589-6258 or splashlandllc@hotmail.
com. Also check Splashland out on Facebook and at www.
splashlandllc.com/
25 SAND DUNES RECREATION –– Enjoy multiple
pools and other activities at Sand Dunes Recreation, located
just northeast of Hooper. The adult-only greenhouse features
multiple hot spring tubs at varying temperatures currently
by appointment only. Also, enjoy delicious food from the
Mile Deep Grille. Cabins and camping sites are available.
For more information, go to www.sanddunespool.com
LABOR DAY WEEKEND
2022

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 11
Saguache County
26 WAGON WHEEL TRACKS — Along the trail
system of Penitente Canyon are tracks from early wagons
worn into the rock. It’s an amazing sight about a half-mile
hike from the Penitente Canyon Trail Head.
30 PONCHA PASS— At 9,010 feet, Poncha Pass is the
northern entrance into the San Luis Valley, separating the
Arkansas River Basin and the Rio Grande Basin. It is one
of the lowest passes in Colorado and was often used by
Native Americans, trappers and immigrants in the 1800s.
31 FOURTH OF JULY IN CRESTONE — Enjoy a
parade, children’s activities, vendors, live music, local
art and more during Crestone’s annual Fourth of July
festivities. There’s no July 4 th celebration quite like it.
27 LA GARITA NATURAL ARCH— One of the San
Luis Valley’s hidden treasures is the La Garita Natural
Arch located in Penitente Canyon. To reach the volcanic
rock arch, go north out of Monte Vista on Highway 285
for 18 miles to County Road G and turn left. Go west
to the “y” intersection just past the La Garita Store and
take the dirt road south, following the signs to the arch,
turning west on Forest Road 660. The arch is located just
west of Forest Road 659.
28 DRIVE COCHETOPA PASS — Cochetopa Pass,
or Pass of the Buffalo, is the northwest route out of the
San Luis Valley. At just over 10,000 feet, Cochetopa is
a scenic mountain drive into the Gunnison River valley.
Take Colorado 114 west out of Saguache.
29 BONANZA MINE DISTRICT — With a population
of 16, Bonanza
is Colorado’s
s m a l l e s t
incorporated
town. Points
of interest in
the Bonanza
area include a
former toll road,
cemeteries, and
spectacular
views of the
aspen-covered hills where prospectors once hoped to
strike it rich.
32 UFO WATCHTOWER — The UFO Watchtower is
just north of Hooper off Highway 17, about half an hour
away from Alamosa. Summer hours are daily from 10
a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment after hours. Camping
permitted on site. A new attraction this year will be a display
featuring the remains of “Snippy” the horse, believed to
have been a victim of aliens. For more information, call
719-378-2296 or see www.ufowatchtower.com
33 HOT SPRINGS — Joyful Journey Hot Springs,
and the Orient Land Trust, formerly known as Valley
View, have plenty of hot water for soaking and swimming

Page 12 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
after a long hike or bike ride. Joyful Journey also offers
massages, and Valley View, which is clothing optional,
has a hot tub and sauna. All are accessible from Colorado
17. For information call Joyful Journey at 719-256-4328;
Orient Land Trust at 256-5212.
35 MUSEUMS — The Hazard House at 807 Pitkin in
Saguache features the affluent lifestyle of the 1920s and
1930s. The Saguache County Museum, on U.S. Highway
285, includes an old jailhouse, rocks and minerals, fine
China dolls, and information about Alferd Packer. Call
719-655-2805 or go to www.Saguache.org
Also, check out the Crestone Historical Museum.
34 CHALLENGER GOLF COURSE — The Challenger
Golf Course in the Baca Grande near Crestone features 9
holes and a magnificent setting at the base of the Sangre
de Cristo Mountain range. The course is named for
Challenger Point on Carson Mountain, in honor of the
astronauts lost in the Challenger space mission. Phone
(719) 256-4856 for tee times.
36 SAND DUNES SWIMMING POOL —Open yearround,
this pool, just north of Hooper and about half an
hour from Alamosa, is a treat for children and adults alike
with multiple pools of warm artesian water, a full line of
concessions, pool toys, and a recreation area. The pool is
closed Thursdays for cleaning. All other days, summer hours
are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Also enjoy The Greenhouse, a 21-andover
area with pool, soaking tubs, sauna and Steel Box Bar.
Call 719-378-2807 or see www.sanddunespool.com.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 13
San Luis Valley Calendar
Alamosa County:
Summerfest on the Rio, June 3-4
Find live music, crafts and food vendors in Alamosa’s Cole
Park as this event returns after a two-year hiatus thanks to the
pandemic.
Independence Day, July 4
Celebrate our nation’s independence in Alamosa, July 4. Begin
the day with the Kiwanis pancake breakfast in the San Luis
Valley Federal parking lot, then make your way to Main Street
for the annual parade. At dusk don’t miss the gala fireworks at
the fairgrounds. Info: www.alamosa.org
Rio Trio- Adventure Triathlon, June 11
Individuals or teams of three will pedal eight miles, paddle 2.7
miles on the Rio and run 3.1 miles. Event includes camping, race
t-shirt, local food and beer and a kids race. Visit rioraces.com.
Farmers Market, July 9-Oct. 8 Saturdays
Located in the heart of Alamosa’s downtown, the farmer’s
market includes local growers, certified dairy producers and
meat producers. The market runs each Saturday, 8 a.m.-1:30
p.m. at the corner of 6 th and State in downtown Alamosa. Info:
www.alamosafarmersmarket.org
Kahler Memorial Golf Tournament, Aug. 12-13
This exciting 36-hole men’s stroke play tournament takes
place at Cattails Golf Course north of Alamosa on North River
Road. Info: www.alamosacattails.com
Alamosa Roundup, June 23-26
The 2022 Alamosa Round-UP kicks off Thursday with The
High Noon Parade and Cattle Drive, Friday and Saturday Nights
bring The Professional PRCA Rodeo, Saturday also includes
Cowboy Church. Saturday Night after the Rodeo is the 3rd
Annual Round-UP Concert! Sunday Afternoon is The Metal
Crashing Demolition Derby!
Tickets will be available online for all events and the
concert! Combo rodeo/concert packages are also available!
Advance Sale Tickets are available now at: www.
alamosaroundup.com
Alamosa Arts Festival, Sept. 16-17
Take a walk through downtown Alamosa and see artists of
various different two and three-dimensional mediums creating
one-of-a-kind work, much of which will be displayed
for a tour downtown. An annual celebration featuring local
musicians and performers will also take place at Society
Hall. Info: www.cityofalamosa.org/public-art and www.
societyhall.org
Rollin’ Deep Car Show, June 19
Head on out to Cole Park on Fathers’ Day for the annual
Rollin’ Deep Lowrider & Custom Carshow — open to all vehicles:
all makes, models, and years of cars and motorcycles,
along with some custom bicycles. Enjoy live music, vendors
and kids activities while checking out the great entries. Info:
719-580-3939, 719-274-5224
Beat the Heat BBQ, Brews & Chili, Aug. 5-6
Come check out the San Luis Valley Beat the Heat BBQ, a
sanctioned Kansas City Barbecue Society and Rocky Mountain
Barbecue Association State Championship event, at Alamosa’s
Cole Park. Enjoy BBQ, beer, and sample a little green chili to
wake up your taste buds. Live music all day Saturday with kids’
games and family entertainment. Info: www.slvbeattheheat.com
Early Iron Festival, Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 2-4
The Early Iron Festival is a premier event of Alamosa
and the surrounding area, bringing visitors from Colorado,
New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, Utah, Kansas and beyond to
Cole Park. It now draws well over 600 rodders and street
car enthusiasts.
This is a three-day event starting on Friday and ending
on Sunday, jam-packed with parties, music, vintage nitro,
pinstriping, slow cruising and of course, awesome hot rod
displays!
Info: www.earlyironclub.com
Conejos-Costilla:
Encampment at Fort Garland, May 28
Fort Garland Museum will hold its annual living history
military encampment on Memorial Day weekend.
Throughout the weekend the Fort Garland Memorial
Regiment and the Artillery Company of New Mexico
will present activities and displays that depict 19th
century garrison life at Fort Garland. Demonstrations 9
a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: www.museumtrail.org/fort-garlandmuseum.html
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad opening day, June 11
Antonito celebrates the beginning of the scenic railroad’s
season at the depot with music, ceremonies and family fun
beginning on June 11 — with bells clanging, whistles blowing,
and surrounded by clouds of steam. Info: 1-888-286-2737,
www.cumbrestoltec.com
Sanford Pioneer Days, July 14
This small town celebrates its history, rooted deeply in the
lives of the pioneers who settled here between 1880 and 1890.
Mormon pioneers of Sanford came from Utah in covered wagons,
first living in Ephraim and Richfield until Sanford was
located. Info: 719-274-4024

Page 14 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
Manassa Pioneer Days, July 15-16
The Pioneer Days Celebration started with its namesake—
the pioneers. Generations of Manassa’s families descend on
the town from far and wide for the two-day celebration of
history, legacy and family. The town bustles with carnival
rides, food, bands, Miss Pioneer and her princesses and a
parade so great it runs up and down Main Street twice. Info:
www.manassa.com
Santa Ana y Santiago Fiesta, July 22-24
San Luis, Colorado’s oldest town, honors and celebrates
the area’s faith and culture as it plays host to mariachis, local
bands, spectacular parades, traditional singers, fabulous food
and more. Info: 719-672-2080
Antonito Labor Day Celebration, Sept. 3-4
Labor Day is always the first Monday in September, but no
place welcomes it in like Antonito, with celebrations Saturday
and Sunday. The day begins with a pancake next to the mansion
town hall, followed by a parade at 10 a.m. Info: 719-376-
2355
Mineral County:
Creede Farmers Market, May 27-Sept., Fridays
The Creede Farmers Market runs on Fridays from 9 a.m.
to 2 p.m. at 10 S. Main Street. Other special occasion dates
will be added in as well. Browse vendors selling produce,
other food items, crafts and antiques and enjoy activities,
entertainment and more. Info: www.creedefarmersmarket.
com
Taste of Creede, May 28-30
The Annual Taste of Creede on Memorial Day weekend will
showcase all the “tastes” around town, where taste includes
much more than food. Music lovers will sample melodies all
weekend. Art aficionados can tour all the galleries in town and
attend the National Small Print Show opening on Saturday.
Info: www.creede.com
Runoff Runoff, June 4
Throughout the summer, racers can choose to ride ATVs, run
alone or run with a donkey. The Runoff Runoff includes three
races (6K, half-marathon and marathon) with a festive finish
line in the heart of Creede. Info: www.runoffrunoff.com
Donkey Dash & Gravity Derby, June 11
The Annual Creede Donkey Dash races into Main Street on
Saturday. The course covers about 10 miles through Creede’s
Historic Mining District; teams consist of a burro and runner
On Sunday, join the annual free-style soapbox derby down
Main Street! Only three rules apply: rides must steer, brake and
stop. Info: www.creede.com
Independence Day celebration, July 2-4
The Fourth of July festival and parade runs Saturday and
Sunday in Creede. The parade is at 9 a.m. on July 4. Street
vendors will offer food and crafts, and a beer garden will pour
brain-softeners throughout the two-day event. Info: www.
creede.com
Woodcarvers Rendezvous, July 9-15
Woodworkers will congregate in Creede for the 30 th Annual
Woodcarvers Rendezvous where they can sell their wares or
even learn a new skill. Each year offers new demonstrations,
classes and contests. Info: www.creedewoodcarvers.com
Rock and Mineral Show, Aug. 5-7
Over 40 exhibitors will be showing and selling a fascinating
array of gems, geodes, fossils, silver ore, turquoise nuggets,
Australian opals, beads, jewelry and stone carvings at Creede’s
Underground Mining Museum. Info: www.creederocks.com
Snowshoe Shuffle, Aug. 6
A benefit for Mineral County Search and Rescue, the Annual
Snowshoe Shuffle starts with a 5K run and a 5K walk two
minutes later. The course starts and ends in Basham Park with
registration beginning at 8 a.m. for race-day signups. Info:
www.creede.com
Headwaters Music Festival, Aug. 27-28
Music lovers head to Creede for the Sixth Annual Headwaters
Music Festival, where fans can camp near the concert site, and
visitors who plan ahead can make reservations in the RV parks,
hotels, motels and other lodging options in town. Info: www.
HeadwatersMusicFestival.com
Labor Day weekend celebrations, Sept. 3-5
Over the Labor Day weekend, revelers have plenty of options
for action or audience participation. The Creede Mountain
Run includes four separate races to continue a summer-ending
tradition on Saturday. Also on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 4
p.m., the Salsa Fiesta will feature more than a dozen locations
downtown where local chefs create one of four kinds of original
salsa: red, green, fruit and freestyle. Info: www.creede.com
Cruisin’ the Canyon Car Show, Sept. 17-18
The Cruisin’ the Canyon Car Show is an autumn event that
inspires car fanatics to motor along the beautiful Upper Rio
Grande and enjoy the fall landscapes of red, gold and yellow.
Finish the weekend with Sunday morning breakfast and Fly-
In at the Mineral County Airport. Dozens of planes come in
and out of the Valley, putting on quite the show. Info: www.
creede.com
Rio Grande:
Monte Vista Farmers Market, opens July 8
The Monte Vista Farmers Market, located in the parking
lot on U.S. Hwy. 160 at Jefferson Street, across from the
Information Center, offers local produce, freshly baked
goods and more. The market runs Friday mornings from 9

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 15
a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 16. Info: www.facebook.com/
MonteVistaFarmersMarket
Logger Days, July 15-17
South Fork will celebrate the area’s culture and history during
the Annual Logger Days Festival. Events and competitions
taking place throughout the weekend celebrate the time-honored
tradition of logging, an initial economic draw for the area. Info:
719-873-5512, www.southfork.org.
Ski Hi Stampede, July 20-24
The largest special event in the San Luis Valley is Ski Hi
Stampede in Monte Vista. The Ski Hi Stampede is Colorado’s
oldest professional rodeo. New for 2022, the event will be
celebrating their first year in a brand-new facility after the
Friends of Ski-Hi spent 2019 and 2020 brainstorming, fundraising
and planning to replace the dated event center. Info:
www.skihistampede.com
Covered Wagon Days, Aug. 5-7
Del Norte turns back the clock for some good old-time fun
with events harking back to when the West was born. There is
something fun for everyone to enjoy. Info: www.coveredwagondays.com.
San Luis Valley Fair, Aug. 6-13
A SLV tradition, come see the 120th fair in Monte Vista.
The Fair starts with the Horse Exhibitors events on Saturday
and has numerous 4-H events over the week. The culminating
event is the junior livestock auction on Friday, Aug. 13. For
more information see www.slvfair.com
South Fork Mushroom Foray, August 6
For mushroom enthusiasts and wanna-be mushroom enthusiasts.
Get quick tips regarding the proper way to identify
and collect mushrooms from an expert and then head out for
a nearby hike to look for and collect mushroom species. Info:
719-873-5512, www.southfork.org
San Luis Valley Potato Festival, Sept. 10
Celebrating one of the most important crops to the region the
San Luis Valley Potato Festival celebrates the potato and kicks
off the harvest season. Held in Monte Vista’s scenic Chapman
Park the festival boasts exciting! Info: 719-852-3322, www.
coloradopotato.org
Saguache:
Memorial Day Celebration, Saguache County Museum
Opening, May 30
Memorial Day celebrations in Saguache and the Saguache
County Museum’s grand opening kick of the summer season
in the county and the time to enjoy all the many local fairs and
special events in the area. The pancake breakfast kicks off the
day in the Otto Mears Park Pavilion (at Highway 285 and Pitkin
Avenue) from 7-11 a.m. At 9 a.m., the museum opens for its
62nd year. The day of fun also includes a parade, hot dog lunch,
craft and food vendors in the park, kiddie events, music and
events at the museum. Info: 719-655-2232, www.saguache.org.
Town of Center 4 th of July celebration, Fun in the Sun
Enjoy “Fun in the Sun” celebrating the 4 th of July in Center
with a parade, activities at Casa Blanca Park, live music, vendors,
a beer garden and more. Info: 754-3497
Town of Crestone Annual 4th of July Celebration, July 4
The Fourth of July celebration is participatory with events
that everyone can join. The central event is a parade through
the downtown area, with a “Creation Station” for children to
decorate themselves and their bikes prior to the parade. Info:
719-256-4313.
Hollyhock Festival, July 30
The 10th Annual Hollyhock Festival is July 31. The Chamber
is hoping this date will allow for gathering in the Community
Building and touring gardens in person. The hours for this
event will be 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The hollyhock is the official
flower for the town of Saguache. Info: 719-849-0240, www.
saguachechamber.org
Saguache Arts Walk, July 30
Held in downtown Saguache, local artists will display their
work through the downtown area in businesses, as well as in
several galleries for the annual Saguache Arts Walk. Info: 719-
849-0240, www.saguachechamber.org
Inter-Tribal Pow Wow Celebration, Aug. TBD
A weekend of Native American celebrations and events in
Otto Mears Park, vendors will be selling their wares at the ninth
annual pow wow and Indian drummers, singers and dancers
will be performing throughout the event. Info:www.facebook.
com/SaguachePowwow
Crestone Energy Fair, Aug. 27-28
The Crestone Energy Fair is an annual event highlighting innovative
and visionary energy, building, and human relation’s
technologies while networking the skill sets and resources of
local, regional and global communities who practice sustainable,
regenerative and whole systems designs. Info: www.
crestoneenergyfair.org.
12 Hours of Penitence, TBD, check website
12 Hours of Penitence is an endurance mountain bike race
held in the Penitente Canyon Recreation Area from 7 a.m.
to 7 p.m. It’s a family-friendly, festival-type atmosphere all
day while racers are racking up miles on the course. Info:
www.12hoursofpenitence.com
Saguache Fall Festival & Quilt Show, Sept. 17
The 28th Annual Fall Festival and Quilt Show will take place
at Otto Mears Park and the community building in Saguache. Fun
starts at 9 a.m. on Sept. 18 and continues until 4 p.m. Info: www.
saguachechamber.org

Page 16 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 17
Map Key
1 Orient Mine & Bat Cave
2 Joyful Journey Hot Springs
3 Crestone
4 UFO Watchtower
5 Saguache
6 Sand Dunes Swimming Pool
7 San Luis Lakes State Park
8 Colorado Gators Reptile Park
9 Alamosa
10 Fort Garland
Fort Garland Museum
11 POW/MIA Memorial
12 Pikes Stockade
13 Manassa
Jack Dempsey Museum
14 San Luis
Stations of the Cross & Murals
15 Oldest Church in Colorado
16 Antonito
Cumbres & Toltec Railroad
Conejos County Museum
17 Monte Vista
Home Lake Veterans Center
Transportation of the West
Museum
18 Old Spanish Trail Monument
19 Stone Quarry
20 Del Norte
Rio Grande History Museum
Observatory
21 Penitente Canyon
22 Natural Arch
Wagon Tracks
Elephant Rocks
23 Fremonts Christmas Camp
24 Pfeiffer’s Grave
25 Summitville Gold Mine
26 Wheeler Geologic Area
27 South Fork
Silver Thread Scenic Byway
28 Creede
Historical Museum
Underground Mining Museum
Underground Firehouse
Repertory Theatre
Bachelor Loop Historic Tour
29 Wolf Creek Ski Area
A
Area
B
C
D
E
Area
F
Russell Lakes State Wildlife
Alamosa Wildlife Refuge
Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge
Coller State Wildlife Area
Rio Grande State Wildlife
La Jara & Hot Creek State
Wildlife Area
See map for general locations of;
Blanca, Center, Capulin, Conejos,
Hooper, Moffat, Mosca. La Garita,
La Jara, Lake City, Platoro and
Romeo.
2018© Josephine S. Pierce Reprint by Permission Only

Page 18 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 19
Conejos County
of Conejos. The first church was dedicated in 1863 but was
destroyed by fire in 1926. The new church was dedicated in 1927.
42 PLATORO RESERVOIR & RESORT —Located in
a high mountain valley on the Conejos River about a mile
from the town of Platoro, the lake has great fishing, camping,
hiking, backpacking, canoeing, and boating. An old mining
town, Platoro offers amenities such as lodging, groceries, and
restaurants, and is good base for exploring the nearby South
San Juan Wilderness Area.
37 PIKE’S STOCKADE — Lieutenant Zebulon Pike built a
small stockade during the winter of 1807 near warm springs on
the Conejos River near Sanford. The replica has been designated
a National Historic Landmark. For more information please call
Fort Garland Museum at 719-379-3512.
38 CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD —
America’s longest and highest narrow-gauge steam railroad
built in 1880 offers great family fun and adventure on a 64-mile
trek from Antonito to Chama, New Mexico. Highlights include
the San Juan Mountains, Toltec Gorge, Phantom Curve, and
breathtaking views from trestles and bridges. For information
on tickets and times, visit www.cumbrestoltec.com or call
1-888-286-2737.
39 MANASSA PIONEER DAYS — Thousands of people of
all ages will be heading to Manassa for the 141st Annual Pioneer
Days celebration. This year’s event was set for July 14-16,
featuring carnival, dinner and the crowning of Miss Pioneer. On
Friday and Saturday there will be a parade at 10 a.m., as well as
hamburger stand and rodeo both days. Saturday night’s events
include demolition derby and fireworks. Also, there will be a
barbecue on Friday at the Opera House. Call the Manassa town
hall at 719-843-5207 or see Manassa Pioneer Days on Facebook.
Sanford’s celebration is tentatively scheduled for July 14.
40 JACK DEMPSEY MUSEUM — Commemorate great
heavyweight champion of the world Jack Dempsey, “The
Manassa Mauler,” in Manassa where Dempsey grew up. A
full-size bronze statue of Dempsey sits in Jack Dempsey Park
next to the log cabin in which Dempsey grew up, now the Jack
Dempsey Museum. The Jack Dempsey Museum is open 10
a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday in May, June and August, and
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday in July.
41 OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH —Colorado’s
oldest parish, this beautiful church is located in the small town
43 HIKING — The South San Juan Wilderness Area offers
some of the best wild area backpacking in the state. The
Continental Divide runs the heart of the wilderness area for
42 miles. Also, take the short hike to Rough Creek Falls in the
Conejos Canon. The falls are the perfect stop for an afternoon
picnic. For the more adventurous, the trail continues to the top
of Conejos Canyon.
44 LA JARA GLORY DAYS — La Jara Glory Days is
traditionally held in June or July, in La Jara Town Park, with
booths, crafts, kids’ crafts and live entertainment beginning at
9 a.m., parade at 10 a.m. coloring contest 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and
pool tournament from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jack’s Market hosts
breakfast from 7-9 a.m., and a 5K run/walk will start at the
grade school at 7:30 a.m. Contact: Sylvia Montano, 580-5828
about donations and booths; Larry Zaragoza at 580-2032 about
the 5K, parade and general information; and Julie Zaragoza at
580-7248 about donations.
45 FISH IN THE CONEJOS RIVER — The Conejos
Rivers offers excellent fly-fishing for rainbow and brown
trout. Colorado Highway 17 provides over 25 miles of easy
access to the river, and then follow Forest Service Road 250
along the river toward Platoro Reservoir for another 25 miles.
Plenty of accommodations are available along the route from
Antonito to Platoro.

Page 20 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
46 TRUJILLO MEADOWS RESERVOIR — Near the
summit of Cumbres Pass, only a few miles from the New
Mexico border is cold-water Trujillo Meadows Reservoir.
Besides fishing in high altitude scenery, there is camping and
abundant wildlife.
47 CONEJOS CANYON — Conejos Canyon features
some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Colorado.
A drive on Colorado 17 takes visitors along the Conejos
River and to Forest Service Road 250, which continues up
to the river to the old mining town of Platoro and Platoro
Reservoir. Outstanding opportunities exist for all kinds of
outdoor activities.
48 LA JARA RESERVOIR — Part of Colorado’s three
million acres of State Trust Lands, La Jara Reservoir is open
year-round for fishing. The reservoir is about 35 miles west
of La Jara on Colorado 15 and USFS Road 240.
49 HOT CREEK STATE WILDLIFE AREA — About
Conejos County Offers Exciting Things to Do
Daily Drink
Specials
•Breakfast •Lunch •Dinner
404 E Main St.
La Jara
(719) 515-9040
Kk’s
Laundromat
423 Main Street
La Jara
Open Daily 8 - 8
Dutch
Mill
kfast •Lunch •Dinner
an & American Specialties
ffering Catering Services
Mexican & American Specialties
Now offering Catering Services
Downtown Antonito • 719-376-
Restaurant & Tavern
utch Mill
taurant & Tavern
town Antonito • 719-376-2373
Dutch Mill
Dutch Mill
Mexican & American Special
Now offering Catering Servi
Restaurant & Tavern
•Breakfast •Lunch •D
Downtown Antonito • 719-376-2373
Downtown Antonito • 719-376-2373
Restaurant & Tavern
Dutch Mill
Restaurant
& Tavern
Antonito
719-376-2373
Mexican & American Specialties
Now offering Catering Services
•Breakfast •Lunch •Dinner
25 miles south of Monte Vista on Colorado 15, the west five
miles is the Hot Creek State Wildlife Area. Recreational
activities include cold-water stream fishing, hunting, and
wildlife observation.
50 ANTONITO LABOR DAY — Labor Day is always the
first Monday in September, but no place welcomes it in like
Antonito, with celebrations Saturday and Sunday. The day begins
with a pancake next to the mansion town hall, followed
by a parade at 10 a.m. on the street in front of the building and
grounds, where vendors, information and souvenir booths will
be set up. Live entertainment will be included on the mansion
porch all day and into the night. Info: 719-376-2355
2
0
2
2101 Things to Do in the San Luis Valley
A Personal
Healthcare
Resource You Can Trust
• Prescriptions
• Oxygen, Diabetic and Home
Healthcare Supplies
• Support Your Local Businesses
La Jara Healthmart Pharmacy
412 E Main St. • La Jara (719) 274-5109
STORES.HEALTHMART.COM/LAJARAPHARMACY
This pharmacy is independently owned and operated under a license from Health Mart Systems, Inc.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 21
Costilla County
51 FORT GARLAND —
Established in 1858 to protect
settlers in the San Luis Valley
from bands of roaming
Indians, Fort Garland was
once commanded by the
legendary Kit Carson. Now
operated by the Colorado
Historical Society, the
museum offers historic
artifacts and photographs
of the Buffalo Soldiers as
well as displays of early
Hispano settlers. Call 719-
379-3512. Also view the
T33A (Thunderbird) Jet
Trainer on static display at
the Costilla County Veteran’s Park located on CR HH east of
the Town of Fort Garland visible from Highway 160.
52 HIKE MOUNT BLANCA — Mount Blanca at 14,345
feet is the dominant landmark of the San Luis Valley. Its massif
includes four peaks over 14,000 feet - Blanca, Colorado’s fourth
highest peak; Little Bear; Mount Lindsay; and Ellingwood
Point. The recommended access point to climb Blanca is the
Lake Como route; a tough hike up the road to the lake, then an
easier hike to the peaks.
53 MOUNTAIN HOME RESERVOIR — Just a few
miles southwest
of Fort Garland
is Mountain
Home Reservoir
stocked with
trout 10 to 15
inches, and also
offers some
catfish and
Northern pike.
It is a great place
for a day or afternoon of family fishing. A smaller reservoir,
but also a great place to play in the water, is Smith Reservoir,
located just south of the town of Blanca.
54 THE LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM (White Mountain
Trading Post) on Highway 160 at Fort Garland offers a variety
of activities including gunfights, horse rides, blacksmith
demonstrations, glassblowing demonstrations, live bison and
historical pioneer and Native American displays. The museum
is open with free entrance from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a
week from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For more information
call 719-379-4179.
55 STATIONS OF
THE CROSS AND
CHAPEL OF ALL
SAINTS — Local sculptor
Huberto Maestas of San
Luis created these lifesized
bronze sculptures of
the last hours of Christ’s
life. A beautiful chapel lies
at the top of the pilgrimage
trail. Maestas’ studio is
located in downtown
San Luis: phone (719)
672-3022.
56 VISIT SAN LUIS —
San Luis is the oldest town
in Colorado, founded in
1851 by Hispanic settlers
from New Mexico. The
Museum and Cultural
Center has colonial and pre-colonial artifacts, a collection
of santos, and a replica of a morada, an adobe chapel of the
Penitentes.
57 SANTIAGO Y SANTA ANA FESTIVAL— San Luis,
Colorado’s oldest town, honors and celebrates the area’s faith
and culture as it plays host to mariachis, local bands, spectacular
parades, traditional singers, fabulous food and more July 22-24.
Info: 719-672-2080
58 LOS CAMINOS ANTIGUOS SCENIC BYWAY — Take
a drive along the 129-mile Los Caminos Antiguos (“Ancient
Roads”) Scenic Byway beginning in the San Juan Mountains,
on Cumbres Pass, and passing the oldest church in Colorado,
the first town in the state and the Great Sand Dunes National
Park. See www.loscaminos.com.
59 SANCHEZ RESERVOIR — Located about eight miles
south of San Luis at 8,200 feet elevation, Sanchez reservoir
offers fishing for walleye, saugeye and northern pike. Also enjoy
boating and other water sport opportunities.
60 RIO COSTILLA STUDIO TOUR — The 21st annual
tour is tentatively scheduled
this year for early September,
in southern Colorado and
northern New Mexico. With
more than two-dozen artists
involved, the tour features
artwork, sculpture, food and
more. Contact: (575) 586-
1581, (719) 433-3885 or
riocostillaart@gmail.com.
Also see www.riocostillaart.
com.

Page 22 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
Mineral County
61 VISIT
HISTORIC
CREEDE —
Once a riproaring
mining
town, Creede
is located at
the mouth of
Willow Creek
Canyon. It is
packed with
galleries,
restaurants,
the repertory
theatre and
museums. Visit
the Creede
Cemetery at
the south edge
of Creede where one of the graves of note is Bob Ford, the
man who killed Jesse James. For activities and attractions
log on to www.creede.com or call the Creede Chamber of
Commerce at (800) 327-2102.
62 ATTEND THE CREEDE REPERTORY THEATRE
— Creede Repertory Theatre is a professional theatre company
located in the historic town of Creede. CRT’s award-winning
company produces the best of contemporary and classic
theatre from late May through September. Each year, CRT
produces several plays in rotation, hosts numerous musical
events and concerts, exhibits the
best regional artists in its two lobby
galleries, and offers exciting educational
programming. Tickets are available at
the box office on 124 N. Main Street in
Creede, calling toll free: 866-658-2540
or going to the web site: www.creederep.
org The 2022 season will feature such
plays as “Always… Patsy Cline”, “Steel
Magnolias”, “Native Gardens”, “Sherwood”, “The Royale”,
as well as Boomtown improv comedy.
63 WHEELER GEOLOGIC AREA — Located between
South Fork and Creede, about 20 miles north of Highway 149,
Wheeler Geologic Area is an extraordinary view of volcanic
geologic formations.
64 CRUISIN’ THE CANYON ANNUAL FALL COLOR
CAR SHOW — In its 13th year, this event is tentatively
scheduled for Sept. 17-18 in Creede. All vintage vehicle owners
are invited. Call 719-658-2374 or visit www.creede.com.
65 NORTH CLEAR CREEK FALLS —North Clear Creek
Falls, just off S.H. 149 near the summit of Spring Creek Pass,
is the most photographed waterfall in Colorado. A scenic
overlook/rest area is easily accessible from the highway.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 23
2
0
2
2101 Things to Do in the San Luis Valley
Make Creede
One of Them!
The Holy Moses
Since 1977
An Enchanting Collection of Cabin
Decor, Colorado Pottery, Quilts,
Linens & Specialty Foods
Open Daily 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
658-2848 • 121 N. Main • Creede
Wild Mountain
Jewelry
Open
Monday through
Saturday, 10 a.m.
until 5 p.m.
243 Main St. Creede
(719) 588-9341
Behind Wild Beaver
Mountain Man Emporium
Hike - Bike
Fish - Raft
Visit Museums
Enjoy Live Theater

Page 24 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
66 BIG MEADOWS RESERVOIR — On the South Fork
of the Rio Grande, Big Meadows Reservoir is stocked with
catchable rainbow trout along with a good natural population of
brook trout. Big Meadows is located 12 miles west of South Fork
on U.S. Highway 160, turn right on Forest Service Road 410.
67 WOLF CREEK SKI
AREA/PASS — Located on
U.S. 160, Wolf Creek Ski
Area boasts the most snow in
Colorado. The full-service ski
area covers 1,500 acres, has
six lifts, and accommodates
snowboarding.
source of cropland irrigation as well as a source for recreational
activities such as fishing and rafting.
68 CONTINENTAL DIVIDE SCENIC TRAIL — For a
once-in-a-lifetime trek try a hike along the Continental Divide
Trail as it winds 235 miles through the Rio Grande National
Forest at elevation of 10,500 to nearly 13,000 feet. The trail
crosses back and forth over the Continental Divide and goes
through parts of La Garita, Weminuche, and South San Juan
Wilderness areas.
69 COLORADO TRAIL — The Colorado Trail passes
through northwestern elevations of the San Luis Valley from
Saguache Park to Rio Grande Reservoir. It’s a demanding hike
that’s rewarding in its natural splendor.
70 THE RIO GRANDE RIVER — The headwaters of the
fifth longest river in North America and 20th longest river in
the world are just west of Creede at 12,000-foot Stony Pass
on the Continental Divide. The Rio Grande flows nearly 1,900
miles from its headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico. It is a major
71 FOURTH OF JULY AND DAYS OF ‘92 MINING
COMPETITION — The Fourth of July festival and parade
runs Saturday thru Monday in Creede. The parade is at 9 a.m.
on July 4. Street vendors will offer food and crafts, and a
beer garden will pour brain-softeners throughout the two-day
event. Unless it’s too dry and dangerous, a fireworks display
will wrap up Independence Day. Visitors get to see mining
competitions, rodeo events and the Days of ’92 Mining
Championship. Since the 1970s, the Days of ’92 has drawn
professional mineworkers from the southwestern United
States to battle for the “Best Overall Miner of the Year”
award. Info: www.creede.com

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 25
72 WOODCARVERS’ RENDEZVOUS — Woodworkers
will congregate in Creede for the 31st Annual Woodcarvers
Rendezvous, July 9-15, where they can sell their wares or even
learn a new skill. Each year offers new demonstrations, classes
and contests. Beginners can pick up their first woodworking
tools, while those with more experience can find just about anything
they’re looking for. Info: www.creedewoodcarvers.com
73 CREEDE ROCK & MINERAL SHOW — Over 40
exhibitors will be showing and selling a fascinating array of
gems, geodes, fossils, silver ore, turquoise nuggets, Australian
opals, beads, jewelry and stone carvings at Creede’s Underground
Mining Museum, Aug. 5-7. Plus all types of rock
and mineral specimens from around the world will intrigue
viewers, buyers, collectors and rockhounds of all ages. Info:
www.creederocks.com
74 LABOR DAY IN
CREEDE — The Labor
Day weekend celebration,
September 3-5, in Creede
will feature the 35th
Annual Creede Mountain
Run; Salsa Fiesta; and
ATV Rodeo (URGEC).
The annual hot air balloon
festival has tentatively
been cancelled. TBA See
www.creede.com.
75 CREEDE MUSEUMS — Blasted into the face of
Willow Creek Canyon at the north end of Creede, the unique
Underground Mining Museum illustrates the history and
technology of mining. The museum is open daily, 10 to 4 in
the summer, and 10 to 3 in the winter. The Creede Historical
Museum and Library, in Basham Park, is open daily 10 a.m. to
4 p.m. Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Call 658-2004.
76 DONKEY
DASH & GRAV-
ITY DERBY — The
Annual Creede Donkey
Dash races into
Main Street on June
11-12. The course
covers about 10 miles
through Creede’s
Historic Mining District;
teams consist of
a burro and runner.
Also, don’t miss the mini donkey race, street festival and
live music.
On Sunday, join the annual free-style soapbox derby down
Main Street! The race includes multiple heats, featuring many
age groups. Only three rules apply: rides must steer, brake and
stop! (well, and no motors or pedal power - let gravity do the
work!) Info: www.creede.com
77 SILVER THREAD SCENIC BYWAY — The 75-mile
Silver Thread Scenic Byway links Creede, Lake City, and
South Fork on Colorado 149 and derives its name from the rich
veins of silver ore that lured miners and settlers to the region.
The 16 th Annual Silver Thread Studio Tour, a self-guided tour
of studios and galleries in Creede and South Fork, sponsored
by the Creede Arts Council, will be held on Saturday, August
10, 9 a.m. to 5p.m.

Page 26 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
Rio Grande County
78 MUSIC IN
SOUTH FORK —
TBA- Annually, in
early August, enjoy
the annual Rhythms
of the Rio Music
Festival featuring
local artists as
well as bands from
around the country.
The festival features
music, art, crafts and food. A change in venues is being reviewed.
See rhythmsontherio.com.
79 RIO GRANDE CLUB — The $10 million 18-hole
championship Rio Grande Club golf course in South Fork
features a state-of-the-art clubhouse with dining, weight
room and swimming pool. The Colorado Golf Bible chose the
course’s No. 1 hole with its 80-foot drop from tee to fairway
as the “Best Opening Hole in Colorado.” Phone (719) 873-
1995 for tee times.
80 MONTE VISTA GOLF COURSE — The Monte Vista
Golf Course is a beautifully cared for 9-hole municipal
course in the heart of Monte Vista where for a nominal fee
a golfer can spend a fine, sun-filled day. Phone 852-4906
for tee times.
81 FISHING AROUND SOUTH FORK — Fishing in the
South Fork area provides many different options for anglers
whether fly fishing for brown trout in the many miles of Gold
Medal waters of the Rio Grande River or relaxing at one of
13 local lakes where large browns, rainbow, brook trout and
cutthroats can be found. Tucker Ponds is a great place for kids
to fish, and Big Meadows and Beaver Reservoirs offer great
fishing all year long. Kids 4 to 15 spend the day, June 15, fishing
at Tucker Ponds, about 13 miles from South Fork toward Wolf
Creek Pass. Call 873-5512. For more information contact the
South Fork Visitors Center, 1-800-571-0881, www.southfork.org
82 ROCKIN’ THE
RIO GRANDE —
TBA- The Annual
Rockin’ the Rio Grande
barrel racing and bull
riding series presented
by Burris and Sons
will be held at Rickel’s
Arena in South Fork on
dates to be announced.
Performances are at
6:30 p.m. each night. Events include open barrels, mutton busting,
calf riding, steer riding, bull riding and ranch rodeo riding. See
www.southfork.org or www.burrisandsonsbuckingbulls.com;
email barsx@aol.com or call (719) 588-9979.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 27
2
0
2
2101 Things to Do in the San Luis Valley
Great Things to Do in Del Norte!
Kathy’s
Fabric Trunk
Your Go To Sew Place
1 Day Classes • DMC Floss
Fabric • Patterns
719-657-9314
610 Grand Ave.
Del Norte
www.kathysfabrictrunkandco.com
Keepin’ Your
Dirty Bits
Clean
(719) 657-7276
728 Grand Ave.
Del Norte
WWW.DIRTYBITSSOAPERY.COM
Flowers, Food,
Gifts & More
540 Grand Ave.
Del Norte
719-657-9024
Baked Goods • Espresso
Frozen Yogurt
675 Grand Ave • Del Norte
719-588-2857
Bee Happy...
From Our
Family to
Yours for Over
100 Years!
...Eat Your Honey Every Day
• BRING IN THIS GUIDE FOR A 10% DISCOUNT •
425 Grand 719-657-2044 Work
Del Norte, CO • www.haefelihoney.com • 719-849-1356 Cell

Page 28 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
Stampede is Colorado’s oldest professional rodeo.
83 LOGGER DAYS FESTIVAL — South Fork will celebrate
the area’s culture and history during the Annual Logger
Days Festival July 15-17. Events and competitions taking place
throughout the weekend celebrate the time-honored tradition of
logging, an initial economic draw for the area. Crowd-favorite
competitions include chainsaw carving, the ax throw, the twoman
crosscut and a relay-type race with team members pulled
from the audience. The parking lot and community center are
packed with children activities, various vendors and food trucks.
The event is free and open to the public. Info: 719-873-5512,
www.southfork.org.
84 COVERED WAGON DAYS — Del Norte honors its
western heritage with the 48th Annual Covered Wagon Days
Aug. 5-7. The Saturday parade includes antique tractors, horsedrawn
carriages and floats. Firefighters serve pancakes and
sausage after the parade. Put on Victorian era dress and enter
the costume contest, and don’t miss the Saturday night dance.
Call 657-2845 or visit www.coveredwagondays.org.
85 HOMELAKE VETERANS CENTER — The Colorado
State Veterans Center Homelake was established in 1889 as
the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home. After more than a century
the center has been home to veterans from every major war
in United States history. Through October 31, the Homelake
Veterans History Museum will be open Tuesday through
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. noon and 1-3 p.m. Contact:
(719) 852-5118.
86 SKI HI STAMPEDE — The largest special event in the
San Luis Valley is Ski Hi Stampede in Monte Vista. The Ski Hi
It was founded in the late 1800s for local cowpoke to compare
skills they learned while riding the range. Today, it’s an official
Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) event, where
the pros accumulate points towards competing in the National
Pro Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nev.
However, this four-day event is not only a rodeo. There are
several other fun, big events to participate in. There are parades
on Friday and Saturday, with Saturday being the largest day, a
chuck wagon dinner on Thursday night right before the concert
which features A-list country western recording artists, dances,
concerts and a carnival at Ski Hi Park. New for 2022, the event
will be celebrating their first year in a brand-new facility after
the Friends of Ski-Hi spent 2021 and 2022 brainstorming,
fundraising and replacing the dated event center. Info: www.
skihistampede.com
87 POTATO FES-
TIVAL, SEPT. 10 —
Celebrating one of the
most important crops to
the region the San Luis
Valley Potato Festival
celebrates the potato
and kicks off the harvest
season. The day is filled
with fun for the entire
family. Held in Monte
Vista’s scenic Chapman
Park the festival boasts
exciting activities including
a 5k Tator Trot race,
craft and food vendors,
guided agricultural tours,
chef demonstrations, narrated
train tours, a truck and semi show, the famous mashed
potato dunk tank and much more! Info: 719-852-3322, www.
coloradopotato.org
88 MUSHROOM FORAY — Enter the woods in search of
edible wild mushrooms during the South Fork Mushroom Foray
August 6. Call 719-873-5512 for reservations.
89 RIO GRANDE COUNTY MUSEUM AND CULTURAL
CENTER — Featuring displays about Indian rock art, Hispanic
settlers, fur trappers, and other history of the San Luis Valley,
the Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center is located
in Del Norte at 508 Oak Street. Call 657-2847.

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 29
90 TRANSPORTATION OF THE WEST MUSEUM
— A “different museum” the Transportation of the West
Museum features early modes of travel in the San Luis Valley,
including a century-old buggy. The museum is located at
961 First Ave. in Monte Vista and is open Thursday and
Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Labor Day. The
Monte Vista History Center, 110 Jefferson Street, is open
Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through
Labor Day. No admission, handicap accessible. Contact
for both: 719-849-9320.
92 PENITENTE
CANYON — Penitente
Canyon offers worldclass
rock climbing,
as well as challenging
mountain bike trails. A
short hike to the rim of
the canyon is rewarded
with an incredible of the
San Luis Valley and the
Sangre de Cristo mountain range.
93 SUMMITVILLE — The drive to Summitville, an old
gold mining town, is a dramatically scenic mountain loop that
can start in Del Norte by driving up Pinos Creek and returning
via Jasper, also a historic mining town, and the Alamosa River
canyon, or by taking the Pass Creek route to U.S. Highway
160 south of South Fork.
94 SLV FAIR, AUG. 6-13— A SLV tradition, come see the
120th fair in Monte Vista. The Fair starts with the Horse Exhibitors
events on Saturday and has numerous 4-H events over the
week. The culminating event is the junior livestock auction on
Friday, Aug. 12. For more information see www.slvfair.com
91 MONTE VISTA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
—Habitat for a wide variety of waterfowl and other birds,
this 14,084-acre artificially created wetland is intensively
managed for the benefit of wildlife. The refuge is located
south of Monte Vista on Colorado 15. Information: 719-
589-4021.
95 RIO GRANDE STATE WILDLIFE AREA — The Rio
Grande State Wildlife Area, located one mile east of the City
of Monte Vista, is an important component of the Rio Grande
wetland complex. The 1,213-acre area provides essential
habitat for many bird species. A 121-acre portion of the area
was renamed the Shriver-Wright State Wildlife Area to honor
community leaders, Doug Shriver and Ray Wright, who died
in 2010.
Rio Grande County Museum
and Cultural Center
Visit us on Facebook
www.museum.riograndecounty.org
E-mail at
rgmusuem@riograndecounty.org
Hours:
Monday - Friday
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday
580 Oak Street • Del Norte, Colorado • (719) 657-2847

Page 30 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022
2
0
2
101 Things to Do in the San Luis Valley
Check Out What
South Fork has to Offer
Mountain
Sweet
Treats
Open: Mon.-Sat. 7-11 a.m.
80 Four Seasons Dr.
South Fork
Located right next door to
Outdoor Depot & the Gift Shop
130 Four Seasons Dr.
South Fork
HOURS:
Monday- Saturday 9am-6pm
Closed Sunday’s
719-468-9498
www.tinytimbersresort.com
28422 Hwy. 160 • South Fork
Open to the public 7 days a week
DOC’S
OUTDOOR
Sports
Prescription “Your For
Outdoor Fun”
Full line Sporting Goods Store
Fishing • Guns & Ammo
Camping • Hunting
Fishing & Hunting Licenses
Equipment Rental
Skis & Snowboards
T-Shirts • Hoodies
Fudge • Souvenirs
31101 W. Hwy. 160
South Fork • 719-873-5151
www.docsoutdoor.com
An Authentic taste of Mexico!
Good food, cold drinks, exceptional
service at a great price!
Sun – Thurs: 11am to 9pm
• Fri – Sat: 11am to 10pm
31519 Highway 160
South Fork
719-873-0231
Basecamp
for Summer
Adventure!

Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022 Page 31
96 ROCK CREEK — The moderate
hike along the Rock Creek trail offers a
number of scenic views of the valley, and
is a must-see in the fall, when the aspen
trees turn the landscape into living art. A
number of campgrounds are in the area.
97 BEAVER CREEK RESERVOIR
— Fishing at Beaver Creek Reservoir
south of South Fork traditionally offers
trout and kokanee salmon.
98 TRAILS — An Old West route linked Santa Fe to the
coast of California. Used for nearly 20 years, 1829-48, the Old
Spanish Trail was designated a National Historic Trial in 2002.
Two branches of the trail came through the San Luis Valley.
At a site west of Monte Vista on U.S. Highway 160 are stone
markers marking one of the branches with access to hiking and
biking and the Limekiln area. The Town of Del Norte’s Lookout
Mountain Trails offers diverse experiences for hikers, bicyclists
and equestrians. The one-mile trail to the USGS named summit
at 8,475 feet is moderately difficult with craggy switchbacks
near the top. At the summit, view the entire San Luis Valley
and Upper Rio Grande. An additional 3.5 miles of easy trails
loop around the mountain near the base.
99 DEL MONTE GUN CLUB —Located between Alamosa
and Monte Vista on Highway 160, the course offers sporting
clays, trap and the “what cha call it” stand. The course is
open to the public and open for shooting most weekends.
RV accommodations are available. Call 719-589-4155 or
go to www.delmontegunclub.net
100 COL.
PFEIFFER GRAVE
— The final resting
place for early San
Luis Valley pioneer
Col. Albert H. Pfeiffer
who served as scout for
Kit Carson and later as
agent for Ute Indians
in Southwest Colorado
is located on Rio Grande Road 15, between Del Norte and
South Fork; look for the sign.
19612 w. us hwy. 160
del norte, Co 81132
GOT
ELK!
Grande natural Meats
www.elkusa.CoM
USDA inspected Buffalo, Elk, Deer,
Goat, Rabbit, Beef.
NOW, we have Bear Meat, plus
frozen Dog Foods & Antler Chews.
Jerky • Sausage • Burger
• Steaks • Roasts
Locally Available At
Grande natural Meats ranCh store,
5 Miles west oF del norte on hwy. 160
Malt shoppe, south Fork
riFF raFF BrewinG Co., paGosa sprinGs
Kip’s Grill, paGosa sprinGs
Joy’s natural Foods, paGosa sprinGs
BuCk stop, paGosa sprinGs
dakota dukes, CuChara
siMple Foods, del norte
VitaMin CottaGe natural GroCers
5% Discount
if you mention this ad!
101 STAR DRIVE-IN — Choose from two featured
movies at this one-of-a-kind drive-in movie theatre. Shows
TBA.
We Ship Everywhere in the USA!
1-888-788-7441

Page 32 Summer in the San Luis Valley 2022