The meandering Rio Grande River snakes through a vast valley ringed by dramatic mountains and laden with hidden lakes, waterfalls and cool summertime temperatures. Explore the small towns and attractions tucked away in this intriguing area.
Sustainability Activity
How to Give Back to These Special Places
Donate to the Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust who believes that land and water conservation contribute to sustaining the vitality of this agricultural heritage and economy, the exceptional wildlife habitat, the scenic beauty and the area's rural quality of life.
Day
1
Activity
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Because the dunes and surrounding mountains are designated wilderness, this is a great place to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty in a variety of ways…
Lunch
Great Sand Dunes Oasis
The Oasis Restaurant and Store, located at the main park entrance, is the only restaurant within 25 miles of Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Activity
Zapata Falls Recreation Area
Cut from the rock face by glaciers and scoured by millennia of rushing water, cold water crashes through a 30 ft. cleft in the rock walls. The…
Dinner
San Luis Valley Brewing
Offers the finest in craft brews and fine food in an inviting atmosphere.
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,…
Lodging
Best Western Alamosa Inn
Beautiful newly remodeled hotel with many amenities.
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
Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center
Fort Garland was built in 1858, ten…
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
Shrine of the Stations of the Cross
Built as an act of faith and love for the parishioners of the Sangre de Cristo Parish. Visitors can climb the half-mile trail to view fifteen…
Dinner
Mi Taquito
A hidden gem here in Alamosa, Mi Taquito is directly behind Calvillo's Restaurant off of Main Street. It's a quaint spot that's serving up authentic…
Activity
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
In the heart of the arid San Luis Valley lies a birdwatchers paradise. Lush wetlands provide year-round habitat for songbirds, water birds, coyotes,…
Lodging
Best Western Alamosa Inn
Beautiful newly remodeled hotel with many amenities.
Day
3
Breakfast
Don Tomas Bakery
Known for amazing breakfast burritos and other delights.
Activity
Penitente Canyon Recreation Area, BLM
Penitente Canyon is the site of rich geological and cultural history. Part of the La Garita Caldera, the unusual rock formations and hoodoos in…
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…
Activity
Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center
See the cultural and natural history of the San Luis Valley. Home to the Del Norte Visitors' Center.
Dinner
Boogie's Restaurant
We are known for our great food, fast service and friendly folks! Come check our our giant cinnamon rolls for breakfast, daily specials or join us…
Activity
Bistro BARbara at the Windsor Hotel
Bistro BARbara is a warm, inviting bar where you can relax with old friends and make new ones. We serve handcrafted cocktails and a locally driven…
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…