Three scenic byways in southern Colorado offer a three-day road tour for travelers who like frequent stops, short walks and awe-inspiring walking trails that are good for both kids and dogs. These 203 mystic miles feature the Highway of Legends scenic and historic byway, Los Caminos Antiguos scenic and historic byway and the Silver Thread scenic and historic byway. You'll be seeing the towns of Trinidad, Cuchara, La Veta, Fort Garland, Alamosa and South Fork — all of which offer unique amenities.
Looking to give back to Colorado during your visit? Work to improve the Cuchara Mountain Park is an ongoing process. Maybe you want to donate? The San Luis Valley Museum Association is an all-volunteer nonprofit that supports the efforts of 22 museums throughout the Mystic San Luis Valley. Finally, if you're an animal lover, Citizen Science hikes along creeks near South Fork, recording information about beavers.
The half-mile Carpios Cove Trail is an easy jaunt through pinyon pine and juniper trees with beautiful lake views and access to multiple ecosystems — riparian, grassland, and forest. There is a day-use fee.
Native Americans regarded the majestic Spanish Peaks as the abode of the Gods. Today hikers enjoy a top-down view of this National Natural Landmark via a short half-mile trail that brings them to a majestic view of the entire wilderness.
After dinner, take the 4-block walking tour of historic downtown La Veta, then drive south of town on Highway 12 to reach deeply dark skies and, hopefully, an unimpeded view of the Milky Way.
The Los Caminos Antiguos scenic and historic byway is located within the heritage area. The mission of the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area is to promote, preserve, protect and interpret the profound historical, religious, environmental, geographical, geologic, cultural and linguistic resources of Costilla, Alamosa and Conejos counties.
After dinner, head for Alamosa's Blanca Vista Park. Take in the views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, enjoy the sunset or do a bit of birdwatching.
This in-and-out trailhead is located behind the Alder Creek Cabin. Keep your eyes and ears open as their is an abundance of wildlife.
This is a major trailhead to the Weminuche Wilderness as well as a connector to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Expect great mountain views and wildlife
Near South Fork, Giant Fir Tree Trail is a half-mile walk to see the biggest Douglas Fir tree in Rio Grande National Forest. Fun Fact: It's the second largest fir in Colroado.
Enjoy stargazing in the Mystic San Luis Valley towns of La Veta, Cuchara, Crestone, Lake City, Westcliffe and Creede as well as the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve — all Colorado stargazing hotspots, many of which are International Dark-Sky Association Designated Communities.
