3 Days
Fall weather in the San Luis Valley is ideal for visiting and enjoying the Great Sand Dunes National Park with fewer crowds, mild temperatures and colorful trees in Alamosa, Hooper, Del Norte and Fort Garland.
Sustainability Activity
How to Give Back to These Special Places
San Luis Valley Great Outdoors works to protect and maintain trails throughout the San Luis Valley. Connect with them to see how you can contribute.
Day 1
activity
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railraod
The train departs from Antonito and travels across scenic prairies, giving you a true sense of life in the Wild West. Enjoy the views and lunch at Osier…
Insider's Tip
Head to Alamosa
A quick 30-minute drive north on Hwy. 285 takes you to Alamosa, where your fun continues.
activity
Downtown Alamosa ArtScape
Take a stroll in downtown Alamosa. As you make your way from the train to dinner, enjoy sculptures spread around from various artists. In its second…
dinner
San Luis Valley Brewing
Offers the finest in craft brews and fine food in an inviting atmosphere.
activity
Rugged Air Tours
Scenic Flights above Colorado's largest National Parks. An epic flightseeing tour is a once in a lifetime activity. Book your flight with Rugged Air…
lodging
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Set 33 miles from the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, this contemporary hotel is also 3.2 miles from the Cattails Golf Course.
Day 2
breakfast
Campus Cafe
Campus Cafe is the local favorite. American food, amazing breakfasts, you have to try the cinnnamon roll! Great lunch menu too.
activity
Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic and Historic Byway
Los Caminos Antiguos traverses the cradle of the San Luis Valley. This route takes you through historic Colorado and along the scenic route that goes…
Insider's Tip
Stop in Fort Garland
As you trek along the byway, stop in the historic area of Fort Garland for lunch before heading on to the wee town of Hooper.
lunch
All-Gon Pizza
Located in the heart of historic Fort Garland, our family-owned restaurant is known for fine dining, delicious home-style cooking, and comfy rustic…
activity
UFO Watchtower
The watchtower is a 10-foot-tall viewing platform that takes advantage of the remote area’s high elevation. Pass the time with your eyes on the sky,…
dinner
Mile Deep Grille at Sand Dunes Recreation
Located on the campus of Sand Dunes Recreation near Hooper off Hwy 17. This grill is known for their burgers and salads. After dinner, swing into the…
activity
Sand Dunes Recreation
A family friendly oasis in the San Luis Valley. Large family pool maintained at 98 degrees, 25-person hot tub, 2 on-site restaurants, gift shop, The…
Insider's Tip
Stay the Night
The Sand Dunes Swimming Pool offers multiple lodging opportunities with RV spots, camping sites and cabins, so you can finish your journey here for the day. Reserve early!
Day 3
breakfast
Milagros Coffee House
Drink Coffee....Love Others! Milagros Coffeehouse not only serves a full line of delicious espresso and coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods, we also…
activity
Mountain Biking at Penitente Canyon
Stop by Kristi Mountain Sports in Del Norte for bike rentals and local advice to hit the trails. The length of the variable trails is 25 miles all together…
lunch
Three Barrel Brewing Company
One of Colorado's smallest microbreweries that's been in business for over 15 years. Located in the heart of Del Norte, Colorado, we that utilizes local…
activity
Del Norte Quarry Trail
Burn off the lunch calories with a hike or bike along the trail just southeast of the town. This trail offers a setting with a high-desert environment…
dinner
Windsor Hotel & Dining Room
Nestled at the base of the picturesque San Juan Mountains, Del Norte, Colorado has a rich history from the gold and silver boom town days of the 1800's…
activity
Wildwood Sounds
Great music, great acoustics, great fun. We bring in a variety of artists year-round with an intimate venue focused on bringing people together through…
lodging
Windsor Hotel & Dining Room
Nestled at the base of the picturesque San Juan Mountains, Del Norte, Colorado has a rich history from the gold and silver boom town days of the 1800's…