2015 Summer on the Rio Grande by Jennifer Alonzo

What’s inside... Welcome........................................... 2 Calendar of events........................ 3

Table of contents Nature

National forests & wildlife 6 refuges..........................................35 Alamosa County events............. 7 Valley 14ers.................................... 35 Rio Grande County events......11 Great Sand Dunes National ........ Mineral County events............16 Park............................................36 Saguache County events.........19 Zapata Falls................................... 37 Conejos/Costilla County events Rio Grande Healthy Living ........................................................21 Park......................................... 38 Trail system.............................. 39 22 Flowers & fungi..........................40 Fishing..........................................23 Rock Wonders............................40 Rio Grande Scenic Railroad........ After the West Fork Complex ........................................................24 Fire..............................................41 Photography.................................. 41 Golf courses..................................26 Hot springs & pools....................27 Recreation opportunities.......28 42 Colorado Gators Reptile Park.... ........................................................30 Art in the San Luis Valley........43 SLV Tourism Association........... 35 Creede Repertory Theatre.....44 UFO Watchtower........................31 Historic Ute Theatre................... 45 Faith directory.............................. 46 Mudita Camel Dairy.................31 Stations of the Cross Shrine...47 San Luis Valley map...................32 Crestone temples......................47

Events

Adventure

The Arts

History

Valley Publishing 835 1st Ave. • P.O. Box 607 Monte Vista, CO 81144 719-852-3531 MonteVistaJournal.com 48

Fort Garland, Pike’s Stockade.... ........................................................49 Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area................................ 49 San Luis Valley history............50 Wild horses.................................51 Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. ........................................................52 San Luis Valley crops...............54 Colorado Malting Company...55 Anta Grande Elk Ranch...........56 Scenic Byways..............................58 Creede Mining District............... 58 Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. ........................................................59 Museums......................................60 Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant..... ..........................................................62 Restaurant guide..........................63 Advertisers’ index, Altitude sickness, Photo credits...............64 Mileage from Alamosa.............. 64

Editorial Contributors: Jennifer Alonzo, Teresa L. Benns, Beth Cerny, Lyndsie Ferrell, Sylvia Lobato, John McEvoy, & Chelsea McNerney-Martinez Advertising Contributors: Jennifer Alonzo & Chelsea McNerney-Martinez Layout & Design: Jennifer Alonzo & Ellie Bone

On the Cover: Tucker Ponds Photo by Zach Cerny; Saguache Pow Wow Photo by Teresa L. Benns; Wild horse Photo by Judy Barnes; Great Sand Dunes Photo by Caden Alonzo; Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Photo courtesy of C&TSR; Creede Repertory Theatre Valley Publishing file photo

Photo by John McEvoy

Welcome...

“May all who come as guests leave as friends.” ~Unknown

Lots to do...

14 South Fork Farmers Market opens, South Fork 18 Historical Society Program: A Geological Event, Creede 19 Pants on Fire opening night, CRT, Creede 20 Summer Soul-stice & Beer Tasting Masonic Park, South Fork RGSR Rails & Ales, Alamosa Fire Academy Fundraiser, Saguache Carliss Taylor Dunn opening night, Ute Theatre, Saguache Kids’ Fishing Clinic, Tucker Ponds, South Fork 21 Rollin’ Deep Car Show, Cole Park, Alamosa Geology Train, Cumbres & Toltec Railroad, Antonito Historical Society Program feat. Dave Montgomery, Creede HogsandHotAirlibraryappreciation,OttoMearsPark,Saguache Rio Grande Scenic Railroad (RGSR) opening day, Alamosa ATV/OHV Poker Run, Creede Summer ranger programs begin, Great Sand Dunes Rollin’ Deep low-rider car show, Cole Park, Alamosa Taste of Creede Festival, Creede Farmers Market, South Fork Creede Arts Council Small Print Show opens, Creede 21-23 Jason McClain Bull Riding School, Monte Vista Cumbres & Toltec Scenic RR (CTSR) opening day, Antonito 23-28 Alamosa PRCA Round-Up Rodeo, Alamosa Denver & Rio Grande Railroad opening day, South Fork 24 Creede Chute Out, Mineral County Fairgrounds, Creede American Legion Memorial Parade, Saguache 26 50th Anniversary Book Party, CRT, Creede Memorial Day 5k, Saguache Ghost Light opening night, CRT, Creede Veterans, Andrew Sisters and Reveille 3, Ute Theatre, Saguache Canoe Kayak, & Raft Race, South Fork Memorial Day Civil War re-enactments, Fort Garland 27-28 Mark Chestnut, RGSR, Alamosa Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast, Otto Mears Park, Saguache 27 Mountain Shoot Out Photography Show Opening, Creede Memorial Day/Museum opening celebration, Saguache Yampa Valley Boys perform at the Ute Theatre, Saguache Memorial Day Ceremony, Elks Lodge, Creede 28 Sundays @ Six begins, Cole Park, Alamosa Memorial Day observations, San Luis Valley Farmers Market, South Fork Creede Museum Opening Day, Creede Good on Paper opening day, CRT, Creede Season Art Poster Unveiling w/ Stephen Quiller, CRT, Creede Meet the Company Block Party, CRT, Creede Community Greenhouse Open House & Plant Sale, Alamosa TBA Poor Boy Club Car Show (2nd week in July), Center 1 Creede Chute Out, Mineral County Fairgrounds, Creede 3 Rock the Rio Grande, Rickle Arena, South Fork Boom Town opening night, CRT, Creede 3–4 Independence Day celebration, South Fork 4 Independence Day celebration, Alamosa Fishing Tournament, South Fork Independence Day celebration, Crestone Little Britches Rodeo, South Fork Creede Chute Out, Mineral County Fairgrounds, Creede Summerfest on the Rio, Cole Park, Alamosa 4–5 Independence Day celebration, Creede Junior Ranger Day, Great Sand Dunes Mountain Rails Live Music Festival, RCSR, Alamosa It’s a Wonderful Life performance, ASU Theatre, Alamosa Colorado Gators Eggfest, Mosca Colorado Free Fishing Days, Statewide Days of ‘92 Mining Competition, Creede Colo. High School CoachesAssociationAll-StateGames,Alamosa 4–6 Farmers Market, South Fork Hot Rod Dirt Drags car show, Movie Manor, Monte Vista 5 SFMA Summer Concert Series, Visitors Center, South Fork Guys and Dolls opens, CRT, Creede 8 Creede Chute Out, Mineral County Fairgrounds, Creede Opening Night Dinner, CRT, Creede 9 Kitchens in July Home Tour, South Fork Family Movie Night, Public Library, Alamosa 9-15 Fishing Tournament, South Fork Home and Garden Show, Ski Hi Park, Monte Vista Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Chris Collins in Concert, Cumbres & Toltec Railroad, Chama, NM 10 Belfast Circus, Ute Theatre, Saguache Runoff! Runoff! Marathon, Creede Ballpark, Creede Relay for Life of San Luis Valley, Cole Park, Alamosa The Haunted Windchimes performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa

May 21 22 23-24 23 23–25 24 24–26 25 29 30

Calendar of events

July

June

4-10 5-7 6 6-7 9-13 12-14 12 13–14 13 13-14

11 Fly-In and Air Show, Alamosa Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa 11-12 Cat’s Classic Motocross, Alamosa Nitty Gritty Dirt Band perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa 12 Farmers Market, South Fork SFMA Summer Concert Series, Visitors Center, South Fork 11-17 Woodcarvers Rendezvous, Community Center, Creede 15 Creede Chute Out, Mineral County Fairgrounds, Creede Creede Historical Society Annual Potluck, Creede 16 The KID Show opening night, CRT, Creede Sanford Pioneer Days, Sanford 16-17 Ladies Aid Bazaar, Community Church, Creede 17-18 Manassa Pioneer Days, Manassa 17 Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista 16-20 Imagination Stage (Day Camp at CRT) ages 5-7, Creede 17-19 Logger Days, South Fork 18 Rock the Rio Grande, Rickle Arena, South Fork Fort Garland Band Jam, Fort Garland Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Fire Academy Fundraiser, Saguache Saguache Hiking Group, Grandma’s House, Saguache Pitkin Ave. Baptist Church Block Party, Saguache Scott Helmer performs, Ute Theatre, Saguache 18-19 Trout Fishing in America aboard RGSR, Alamosa 19 Farmers Market, South Fork SFMA Summer Concert Series, Visitors Center, South Fork 19–20 Michael Martin Murphey performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa 20-25 Children’s Theatre Camp, Ute Theatre, Saguache 22 Creede Chute Out, Mineral County Fairgrounds, Creede 23-27 Improv Studio Day Camp (ages 8-12), CRT, Creede 23–26 Ski-Hi Stampede, Monte Vista 23 Trace Adkins Concert, Ski Hi Park, Monte Vista 24 Our Town opening night, CRT, Creede Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Canoe, Kayak & Raft Race, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista 25-26 Santa Anna Y Santiago Festival, San Luis 25 Hollyhock Festival, downtown Saguache John McCutcheon performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Stampede on Adams Street, Monte Vista Steel Stampede Car Show, Chapman Park, Monte Vista 26 Farmers Market, South Fork SFMA Summer Concert Series, Visitors Center, South Fork SLV Antique Iron Club Tractor Pull, Monte Vista 28-Aug.1 Actors’ Lab, Adult Day Camp, CRT, Creede

Song and Dance Lab (ages 12+), CRT, Creede 30–Aug.1 Covered Wagon Days, Del Norte Kit Carson Wagon Train, Monte Vista/Del Norte 31 Wounded Warriors fundraiser, Del Norte Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara 31-Aug. 1 Beat the Heat, Cole Park, Alamosa 31-Aug.2 Creede Rock and Mineral Show, Community Center, Creede

August

1 1-2 2 4-9 6-12 7–9 7 7-8 8 8–9 9 14 15-16 15 16

La Jara Glory Days parade and festival, La Jara Annual Snowshoe Shuffle, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Juice Newton performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Rock & Mineral Show, Creede Farmers Market, South Fork Alumni Week, CRT, Creede Fishing Tournament, South Fork Crestone Music Festival, Crestone Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival, South Fork Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara Mushroom Foray, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Kahler Memorial Golf Tournament, Cattails, Alamosa The Burrito Brothers perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa Jubilee Street Party, CRT, Creede Colorado Gators Gatorfest, Mosca Farmers Market, South Fork Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Canoe, Kayak & Raft Race, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, Jack Dempsey Park, Manassa The Wranglers perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa Silverthread Artists Studio Tour, South Fork/Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Saguache Hiking Group, Grandma’s House, Saguache Fire Academy Fundraiser, Saguache Radio Theatre live performance, Ute Theatre, Saguache Trout Unlimited Fishathon, location TBA, Saguache County Farmers Market, South Fork

Photo by Jennifer Alonzo

17-23 19 21 22-23 22 23 25 28-30 28 29 29-30 30

Fun Valley Resort Arts and Crafts Festival, South Fork FSWB Community Barbeque, San Juan & 4th street, Saguache Creede Historical Society Program, Creede August: Osage County opens, CRT, Creede Historical Society lecture, Community Church, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara Doctor Robert Tribute performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Saguache Art Festival, downtown Saguache Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Don Richmond performs at the Ute Theatre, Saguache Upper Rio Grande Tour of Homes, Creede Farmers Market, South Fork NPS birthday (National Park Free Day), Great Sand Dunes Crestone Energy Fair, Crestone Annual Headwaters Festival, CRT, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara Annual Inter-Tribal Pow Wow, Otto Mears Park, Saguache Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Robin and Linda Williams perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa Farmers Market, South Fork

3-9 4 4-6 4-7 5 5-6 5-7 6 7-11 11-12

Fishing Tournament, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, Jack Dempsey Park, Manassa Early Iron Festival, Cole Park, Alamosa Labor Day Weekend Celebration, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Exile performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Colorado Gators End of Summer Roundup, Mosca Labor Day Festival, Antonito National Public Lands Day, Great Sand Dunes Farmers Market, South Fork Colorado 600, South Fork San Luis Valley Potato Festival, Chapman Park, Monte Vista

September

Although we have made all attempts to verify dates and events, they tend to change; therefore, we suggest verifying with local chamber offices. Alamosa County Chamber Fort Garland 719-589-3681, www.alamosa.org Revitalization Committee http://fortgarland.webs.com Colorado Welcome Center 719-589-4840, www.colorado.com Monte Vista Chamber 719-852-2731, Conejos County Chamber 719-376-2277, www.conejoschamber.org

Costilla County

www.costillacounty-co.gov

Creede/Mineral County Chamber 719-658-2374, www.creede.com

Crestone Town Hall

719-256-4313, www.townofcrestone.org

Del Norte Chamber

719-657-2000 www.delnortechamber.org

www.monte-vista.org

Saguache Welcome Center

719-655-0216 www.saguachewelcomecenter.com

San Luis Visitors Center 719-672-3002

SLV Tourism Association www.sanluisvalley.org

South Fork Chamber

719-873-5556 www.southforkcolorado.org

South Fork Visitors Center 719-873-5512, www.southfork.org

Photo by John McEvoy

Events...

“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.” ~Dr. Seuss

Rays, rodeo, rails Alamosa County events

Summerfest on the Rio, June 5-7 Alamosa kicks off summer each year in grand style with a public celebration in Cole Park. During the three-day event, bands take the stage, jugglers roam through the throngs, belly dancers enthrall the crowds and vendors serve up food to please any taste buds. Informational booths, craft booths, a beer garden, children’s train ride, inflatables, face-painting and more keep the whole family absorbed in the fun. And don’t forget the Bob-A-Lu Horseshoe Tournament on Sunday. This is a “must do event” every year, where old friendships are rekindled and new ones are created. Info: 719-480-4806, www. summerfestontherio.org All-State Games, June 9-13 See the best high school athletes compete

Photo courtesy of Valley Courier

against one another in the 59th Annual Colorado High School Coaches Association All State Games at Adams State University. Athletes will fight for the top spot in football, boys and girls basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and softball, spirit and crosscountry! Info: www.chscaallstategames.org Rails and Ales, June 20 Ride the rails to Fir Station, high atop La Veta Pass for live music, smokin’ hot barbecue and handcrafted brews from around the region. This is the state’s most unique brewfest, accessible only by train. This year’s featured act is “Two Weeks in Fiji,” sure to set toes to tapping and bodies to dancing. Reserve tickets now, as this event sells out early. Info: www.coloradotrain.com Rollin’ Deep Car Show, June 21 This traditional Father’s Day event takes place in Alamosa’s Cole Park and features classic cars, classy low-riders and customized bicycles. Info: 719-274-5224 Alamosa PRCA Round-Up Rodeo, June 23-28 Take a trip back to the days when horses must be “broke and rode” and cattle were roped and tied. The Alamosa Round-Up has been a part of western heritage in Colorado for more than 30 years. The Alamosa Round-Up brings a full week of activities to the San Luis Valley. On Tuesday, June 23 the Ranch Rodeo will open the fun at 7 p.m. Wednesday’s kick-off barbecue is set for 6 p.m., with mutton b u s t i n fo l l o w i n g at 7 p.m. The cattle drive and parade

will stomp through town at high noon on Thursday, June 25. The PRCA rodeos will begin at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, with the rodeo slack starting at 10 a.m. Friday. The rodeo and Rails Block Party winds up Friday night from 8 p.m. to midnight, and the demolition derby offers action-packed fun beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. The Alamosa Round-Up is a prime event in the San Luis Valley. Some of the best bull riders in the PRCA and PBR match up with the top Honeycutt bulls. The bull riding alone is worth the trip to town. Top cowboys and cowgirls from around the country, as well as future champions don their hats, chap up and put on a show for the fans. Featured performer this year is Mark Chestnut, who will perform on the Mountain Rails Live Concert Train on Sunday at the Fir Summit Amphitheater. Info: www.alamosaroundup.com

pancakes at the San Luis Valley Federal parking lot, stay for the parade, enjoy the community and watch the gala fireworks display at the fairgrounds. Info: 719-5893681, www.alamosa.org

Colorado Gators Eggfest, July 4-5 One of the most unique attractions in the San Luis Valley, Colorado Gators Reptile Park, welcomes everyone to join them for the spring gator hatch. Hundreds of alligators will be welcomed into the world. They will also provide other familyfriendly activities during the hatch. Info: 719-378-2612, www. coloradogators.com

Alamosa Farmers Market, Opens July 11 Fresh, local produce is offered along with crafts, baked goods, special activities, music and more at the Alamosa Farmers Market. A new location this year, at the corner of 6th and State in Sundays @ Six, downtown Alamosa, will make Beginning June 28 the 2015 season one of the One of the mainstays of the best for the market. Info: www. Alamosa Live Music Association alamosafarmersmarket.org is its free summer concert series, known as Sundays @ Six. Sundays Alamosa Fly-In and Air Show, @ Six started a number of years July 11 back and has grown into a Pilots from all over the U.S. hallmark of the San Luis Valley gather at the San Luis Valley summertime season. For two of Regional Airport to showcase the most beautiful months in the their vintage and modern aircraft. Valley the community is exposed There is a pancake breakfast at to all kinds of music, performed 7 a.m. followed by by everyone from the neighbor the airshow at down the street to nationally 10 a.m. Info: recognized touring musicians. 719-852Info: www.almaonline.org 9860, www. slvpa.org Independence Day celebration, July 4 The city of Alamosa joins other Valley communities in celebrating our nation’s independence. Begin the day with

Cat’s Classic Motocross, July 11-12 Enjoy the adrenaline and excitement of motocross racing at Sutak Raceway south of town. Top of the Nation Pro Challenge will begin Saturday at 4 p.m. Info: www.catsclassic.com

wrestling matches. There will be games for children and much more. Info: 719-378-2612, www. coloradogators.com

Kahler Memorial Golf Tournament, Aug. 8-9 This exciting 36-hole stroke play tournament takes place Beat the Heat BBQ, Brews & at Cattails Golf Course north of Chili, July 31-Aug. 1 Alamosa on North River Road. San Luis Valley Beat the Heat Info: www.alamosacattails.com BBQ is a sanctioned Kansas City Barbecue Society and Rocky Early Iron Festival, Sept. 4-6 Mountain Barbecue Association Bid farewell to summer at one State Championship event held of the largest vintage car shows at Cole Park. Enjoy BBQ and in Colorado, the 35 th annual beer, and stock up on freshly Early Iron Festival. In a recordroasted green chilies from one breaking year, more than 600 of the roasters. Live music all vehicles packed Cole Park in day Saturday with children’s 2014. This year promises to be games and family entertainment. bigger and better. Cookers will compete for prizes On-site registration will in chicken, pork, ribs and brisket, be held from 3-7 p.m. along with dessert and “anything on Friday, Sept 4. A but” categories, all judged by sponsor, rodder, certified Kansas City BBQ Society pinstriper party judges. Info: slvbeattheheat.com will be held in Cole Park, food and beverages Gatorfest, Aug 8-9 The 20th annual Gatorfest will provided by be held at Colorado Gators. Watch the Early daredevils take turns in alligator I r o n Club,

Photos courtesy of Valley Courier

Photo by Keith Cerny from 5:30 to 10 p.m. The park opens at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5. The Show and Shine will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with winners announced from 3-4 p.m. The Panel Jam Auction will be held from 1-2 pm., and a Ladies Tea and Vintage Fashion Show will be held from 1:30 -2:30 p.m. Dinner

will be from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus with door prize drawings, rodders’ choice and ladies’ choice awards presented. The day will close with a slow cruise through downtown Alamosa at 8:30 p.m. Sunday will include a rodder church service and poker run. Info: www. earlyironclub.com

Photo by Lauren Krizansky

Hot rods, ropin’ and rhythms Rio Grande County events

Memorial Day, May 25 Events are held around the Valley at cemeteries and veterans’ sites.

and help set the scene for what is sure to be the best traditional hot rod event west of the Mississippi! Enjoy drive-in movies Friday and Saturday nights; Saturday and Sunday will include 1/8-mile dirt drags. Live music, a vintage car show, downtown hamburger fry, 50s costume contest and sock hop block party will all be a part of the weekend’s fun. Info: www. hotroddirtdrags.com

South Fork Fishing Tournament, Begins June 4 Have some fun while fishing around South Fork by entering into the monthly fishing tournament. Fish for a week and take a picture of your fish next to a ruler, then return fish to water if not intending to eat it. Bring your picture into the SLV Community Showcase Visitor Center and show it to a Home and Garden Show, staff member. At the end of the June 13-14 week, the largest fish wins and Showcase your talents at third gets a prize. Anyone can enter. annual home and garden show; Info: www.southfork.org the two-day event is held at Ski-Hi Park in Monte Vista and Little Britches Rodeo, will feature arts/crafts, booths, June 5-7 prizes and more. The Monte The Little Britches Rodeo Vista Chamber of Commerce is held at the Rickel Arena on will also be hosting a downtown Highway 149 each year. Three block party on Adams Street in separate rodeos are held over conjunction with the Hot Rod three days, with five age groups Dirt Drags. Info: www.monteof boys and girls ranging vista.org from five to 18 years old. The rodeo, one of the South Fork oldest, ongoing youth Farmers rodeo associations in Market, the world, features June 14-Sept. 13 several events for (Sundays) all age divisions, Artisans, farmers including barrel and food racing, steer wrestling, vendors create bull riding, team roping a welcoming and goat tying. Info: hometown www.nlbra.com shopping experience Hot Rod Dirt at the South Drags, Fork Farmers June 12-13 Market. The The newest market will be open tradition hot from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. rod event on Sundays. in the west Musical enterwill be three tainment, craft days of thrilling and produce events centered ve n d o r s a n d at the Movie food stands will Manor Drive-In grace a new Theater outside of location this year, Monte Vista. Bring behind the Carnegie a 1950s vintage Library in South Fork. bobber, hot rod Info: 719-873-5512, o r c u s to m www.southfork.org

South Fork Kids’ Fishing Clinic, June 20 Young anglers from around the Valley come together each year to learn about fishing and take part in a friendly competition. Grab fishing poles and rods and go fishing at Tucker Ponds to win prizes and goodies. The Division of Wildlife will be on hand to give lessons and instructions to little anglers. Enjoy lunch afterwards near the water. Admission is free and open to the public. Donations welcome. Info: 719-873-5512, www.southfork.org

Courtesy Photo

South Fork Canoe and Kayak Race, June 26 A resurrection of a historical event in South Fork with a race down the Rio Grande River, once a month, or as long as there is sufficient flow in the river. Solo or tandem is allowed. Contact the Visitor Center for the rules and regulations. Info: 719-873-5512, www.southfork.org South Fork Independence Day celebration, July 3 Come celebrate Independence D ay w i t h a d ay f u l l o f activities. Start off the day with the annual parade themed “ B l a z i n g Tra i l s . . . i n to t h e Future.” Following the parade

head over to the Annual South Fork Fire Department Fish Fry and fill your belly with goodies. Take a short break and head on down to the river to root for your lucky duck as it floats across the finish line on the Rio Grande. The Kiwanis Brisket Dinner will be held at the South Fork Community Building. Finally, don’t miss the South Fork Rodeo put on by Burris & Sons; there will be bull riding, team roping, barrel racing and much more. Don’t leave your seats, as the fireworks start when the rodeo finishes. Info: 719-8735512, www.southfork.org

Rock the Rio Grande. July 3, 18 Enjoy good old-fashioned rodeo fun at South Fork’s series withbarrelracing,muttonbusting calf and steer riding, bull riding and more (pictured below). The series will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Rickel Arena on Highway 149. Info: 719-588-9979, www. burrisandsonsbuckingbulls.com

Kitchens in July Home Tour, July 9 Select South Fork homeowners will graciously open their homes for the annual Kitchens in July Home Tour. Beautiful kitchens are the central theme to this event, but

year after year attendees give rave reviews of the beautiful and unique homes on the tour. Funds raised through the home tours have been used to purchase seasonal banners for the visitors center, an LED sign at the community building, landscaping at the library and more. Info: www. southforkfoundation.org

Monte Vista Farmers Market, Opens July 17 The Monte Vista Farmers Market will have a new location this year, in the parking lot across from the Monte Villa Hotel, right on 1st Avenue. Offering local produce, freshly baked goods and more, the market runs Friday mornings from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info: montefarmersmarket@ gmail.com Logger Days Festival and Fair, July 17-19 South Fork’s logging traditions are celebrated each year with vendors and competitions. Anyone can enter the amateur axe-throwing competition and then watch the logging professionals show off their skills in the choker race, hanger cut, wrapper throw, two-man cross cut and more. The festival, held at the South Fork Community Building on Highway 149, also features music, food, arts & crafts, onsite wood carving, children’s activities and much more . The event is free and open to the

public. Info: 719-873-5512, www.southfork.org

Ski Hi Stampede, July 23-26 Fun, food and great rodeo action can be expected each year at the Ski Hi Stampede Colorado’s oldest pro rodeo. The event was originally founded in the late 1800s for local cowpokes to compare skills they learned riding the range. Today, it’s a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event, where the pros accumulate points toward competition in the National Pro Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nev. In addition to the great rodeo action, there will be parades, a chuck wagon dinner, dances, concerts and a carnival at Ski Hi Park in east Monte Vista. One of the favored parts of the event each year is the annual concert, which will feature Trace Adkins and Kelsea Ballerini this year. The second annual Steel Stampede Car Show will be held in conjunction with the Ski Hi Stampede at Chapman Park on Saturday, July 25 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will include food, music, games, vendors and more. All proceeds will go to the Faith Hinkley Veterans Memorial Park to honor SLV veterans. Info: 719-588-8566 This is the largest event in the San Luis Valley and boasts one of the biggest carnivals in the state of Colorado. Info: www. skihistampede.com

Photo by John McEvoy

Kit Carson Wagon Train, July 30-Aug. 1 Enjoy a bit of the old West, while supporting the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soldiers with a fundraiser for Wounded Warriors. The trail will cover approximately 14 miles each day and include a ride in the Del Norte Covered Wagon Days parade. Info: www.facebook. com/pages/Kit-Carson-WagonTrain-and-Trail-Ride

Covered Wagon Days, July 30-Aug. 1 Del Norte turns back the clock for some wild and wooly events harking back to when the West was born. This themed event includes a parade, pancake breakfast, the popular and traditional firefightersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; barbecue, a 5K run,

horseshoe tournament, oldfashioned games, a Sunday service and more. There is something fun for everyone to enjoy during the annual event. Info: 719-657-2000, www.delnortechamber.org

South Fork Mushroom Foray, Aug. 7-8 E a c h ye a r t h e t o w n o f South Fork offers a mountain getaway to learn about area mushrooms. 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. Once the mushrooms have been collected, participants will go back to the visitors center for

Photo by by John John McEvoy McEvoy Photos

identification and discussion. Info: 719-8735512, www.southfork.org Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival, Aug. 7-9 The Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival will once again be held at the beautiful River Mill Festival Field at 28121 W. Highway 160 in South Fork. Each year this festival offers three days of music in the great outdoors on riverfront property. Peruse the vendors, play horseshoes and dance to more than 10 bands. On-site camping is part of the whole rhythms experience. There is a fee for parking and camping. Info: www.rhythmsontherio. com Monte Vista Potato Festival, Sept. 12 The Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most celebrated crop gets its own day with the annual Monte Vista Potato Festival. Everyone is welcome to celebrate the potato and all its possibilities at this event, which keeps growing bigger and better each year; the festival boasts exciting activities, tastings and competitions for adults and children alike. Info: 719-852-3322, www. coloradopotato.org

Photos by John McEvoy

Photo by Toni Steffens-Steward

Art, ATVs, action Mineral County events

Taste of Creede, May 23-24 Creede’s chefs have their first opportunity to show their goods at the 27th Annual Taste of Creede Festival of Fine Arts and Fine Dining in downtown. A unique competition for local chefs to compete for the top spot and delectable entries, the winner receives bragging rights for the rest of the year as well as a trophy. Shops along Main Street open their doors for the summer and invite guests into their treasure troves of unique goods. Come join the fun and enjoy a

weekend of good food, awesome entertainment and local wares to get the summer started. The festival also pays tribute to area artists with the National Small Print Show and quick draw competitions that last through the weekend. OHV Poker Run will be held June 21 at the Upper Rio Grande Memorial Day ceremony, Events Complex. This event has May 25 great family appeal and gets Creede Elks Lodge, BPOE #506 the entire crew out and about hosts a ceremony celebrating to enjoy the area’s natural and U.S. soldiers and veterans on historical surroundings. Info: Memorial Day. Info: 719-658- 719-480-3553 2661 Creede Chute Out Bull Riding ATV Poker Run, June 21 Series, June 24- July 22 The fourth annual Father’s Riders will compete in bull Day ATV/ riding, open barrel racing, sheep chasing, a calf scramble, mutton busting and team roping on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Mineral County Fairgrounds. In addition, a special performance will be held on July 4. Info: www. upperriogrande.org Independence Day celebration, July 4-5 If there is ever a festival to attend among the many that are hosted in Creede, it would have to be the Fourth of July. The weekend is full of activities sure to please the family. From street vendors to the Days of 92 Mining

events, Creede is the place to find a great time. The Colorado State Mining competitions are a sight to be seen, with several events that can intrigue an audience of all ages. Competitors come from all over the globe to take part in the event. The days are full of children activities, a beer garden, not to mention local shopping and food galore. As night falls, the high cliffs and close canyon walls offer breathtaking echoes as fireworks light up the Colorado skies.

Woodcarvers Rendezvous, July 11-17 Talented woodworkers from all around the country come to Creede each year for the annual rendezvous 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 Ladies Aid Bazaar, July 16-17 Each year the Creede Ladies Aid offers a bake sale and rummage sale to raise money for their work. The sale features some great found treasures.

Photos by John McEvoy

Rock and Mineral Show, July 31-Aug. 2 Rock hounds from near and far make their way to Creede’s Underground Mining Museum where gems, fossils and more are on display each year at the Rock and Mineral Show. Dealers are on hand to show specimens, gold nuggets, geodes, tools and more. Amateur rock hounds and professional geologists alike can find something of interest at the

great show. Info: 719-658-2376, www.creederocks.com Snowshoe Shuffle, Aug. 1 Everyone is welcome to take part in the 31st annual Snowshoe Shuffle with races for all abilities. The race begins at Basham Park with various tracks to fit any racer. Prizes are awarded for first, second and third place in men’s and women’s age divisions.

Silver Thread Studio Tour, Aug. 15 Artists from Creede and South Fork welcome people into their homes and studios to show their works. Info: www. creedeartscouncil.com

Labor Day weekend celebration, Sept. 4-7 Each year Creede offers fun and exciting celebrations for Labor Day weekend. The annual salsa fiesta offers samples from local businesses, and participants vote for their favorite. The fifth annual balloon festival will support Creede Mining Heritage. Daredevils can take on the hill through downtown Creede in the annual gravity derby or participate in the ATV rodeo. Live music and vendors fill the streets. Creede Mountain Run, Sept. 5 A 22-mile trek offers challenges for even the most dedicated runners. The run tops out at the 11-mile mark of the Continental Divide. If the whole trip is too much for anyone, there are also 12 or two-mile routes. Info: www. creedemountainrun.com

Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell

Courtesy Photo

Cruisin’ the Canyon Car Show, Sept. 18-20 P re - re g i s t ra t i o n b e g i n s on Friday with a social hour, and the car show is held on Saturday. Vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles will be on display in downtown Creede. The show ends with a rod run and a fly-in breakfast on Sunday.

All events take place in Creede unless otherwise specified. For more information, contact the Creede/Mineral County Chamber of Commere, 719-6582374, www.creede.com.

Fiestas, fireworks, fun Saguache County events

Saguache Memorial Day weekend celebration, May 24-25 Saguache County Museum opening and Memorial Day celebration is held at Otto Mears Park, Highway 285 and Pitkin Avenue. The fun includes a parade, 5K walk/run/crawl race, craft and food vendors in the park, kiddie events, music, events at the museum and a performance at the Ute Theatre featuring the Andrew Sisters Tribute Band. Info: 719655-2232, www.saguache.org

Photo by Teresa L. Benns

San Juan Fiesta, June TBA The annual San Juan Fiesta will be celebrated with Saturday mass at St. John the Baptist Church in La Garita. Following the mass, festivities will begin in the downtown park in Center on Worth Street. The music, games, dancing, raffles and food vendors at the park will resume on Sunday as well. A Sunday mass will be held at St. Francis Jerome Church, followed by a procession from the church to the park and the presentation of fiesta royalty. Info: 719-754-3497 Crestone Independence Day celebration, July 4 The Fourth of July celebration includes a parade, 5K race, live music, vendors in the park and the annual soapbox derby in Crestone. Info: 719-256-4313

Poor Boy Club Car Show, July TBA Named the Poor Boys Club, because the members do not sink a lot of money into the cars, but do the majority of the work themselves; the group will host the fifth annual show at the Center Schools parking lot. The best of each class receives a plaque.

Hollyhock Festival, July 25 The annual Hollyhock Festival held in Saguache at Otto Mears Park celebrates the town flower. The festival has garden tours, a flower art contest, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities, food, fun and flowers for the whole family. Info: 719-655-6202, www. saguachechamber.org

Crestone Music Festival, Aug. 7-9 The 17 th annual Crestone Music Festival will take place Aug. 7-9 at the Challenger Golf Club. CrestFest is a three-day, twostage, multi-genre, multi-cultural event

featuring international, national, regional and local performers as well as global cuisine, wine, micro-brews and mojitos. There are arts, crafts and activities for children and adults. Activities include men’s and women’s wood chopping contests, limbo and pieeating contests! There are many things that go on each year such as a fabulous raffle, free door prizes and surprise auctions. Great on-site camping, delicious food and Colorado libations and generally speaking, a good ‘ole time will be had by all! Info: 719256-4533, www.crestfest.org

known for constantly working towards greater levels of localized sustainability, will present the 26th Annual C re s t o n e E n e r g y Fa i r a t Crestone Park with speakers, demonstrations, home tours and music. Hands-on workshops on natural building, bio-fuels, and alternative energy are given as well. Info: scseed.org

Annual Inter-Tribal Pow Wow, Aug. 29 A day of Native American celebrations and events in Otto Mears Park, vendors will be selling their wares Saguache Arts Festival, at the pow wow all day and Aug. 22 Indian drummers, singers and Held in downtown Saguache, dancers will be performing local artists will display their throughout the event. Info: work through the downtown 719-580-5946 area in businesses, as well as in several galleries for the sixth Eighth Annual Melodrama, annual Saguache Arts Festival. Sept. 18-19 Info: 719-655-6202, www. The SLV Theatre Company saguachechamber.org presents at the Ute Theatre. Info: 719-580-4443 Crestone Energy Fair, Aug. 28-30 Fall Festival, Sept. 19 The Crestone community, The 22nd annual festival and

Photos by Teresa L. Benns

quilt show will take place at Otto Mears Park and the community building in Saguache. Participate in 5 and 10K races, a pancake breakfast, music, food, vendors and children’s games. Info: 6552824

The SLV Theatre Company This non-profit company strives to bring art of theatre to the Valley. Performances are planned throughout the summer. Info: 719-580-4443, http:// slvtheatrecompany.weebly.com

Honoring heritage Conejos/Costilla County events

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad opening day, May 23 Antonito will celebrate the beginning of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad season with specialty trains and entertainment. Be sure to see the fully restored Gene Autry Engine and other railroad memorabilia. Info: 1-888-286-2737, visit www. cumbrestoltec.com

Encampment at Fort Garland, May 23-25 The annual Memorial Day Encampment at Fort Garland awakens the past of the old fort, where re-en-actors have scheduled historical events throughout the Memorial Day weekend. Activities include drills, living history demonstrations, games and stories. Join them for fun, sun and history. Info: www.museumtrail. org/FortGarlandMuseum.asp Sanford Pioneer Days, July 16 Sanford honors their roots with the annual Sanford Pioneer Days event. A pageant competition will be held, in addition to a parade and other events.

Manassa Pioneer Days, July 17-18 A tribute to the Mormon families who settled this part of Conejos County, this year’s Manassa Pioneer Days marks the 136th annual event, with parades at 10 a.m. both days, events in the park, vendors, live entertainment, carnival rides, games, concessions, food selections galore and celebrating well into the night. Not to be missed is the famed hamburger stand, which boasts long lines and great food Friday and Saturday. An unusual event is the horse races all three days, with generous purses for the winners. Rodeos will be held at 6 p.m. Friday and 1 p.m. Saturday, while the rough and tumble demolition derbyrolls

in at 6 p.m., followed by traditional fireworks on “M” Mountain. Remembering Manassa’s most famous native, the Jack Dempsey Museum will be open all day each day, showing mementoes and souvenirs of the “Manassa Mauler.” Info: 719-843-5207, www.manassa.com

the town of San Luis, Colorado’s oldest town, celebrates and honors the indigenous Catholic culture and plays host for two days to Mariachis, local bands, Fort Garland Band Jam, folkloric dancers, traditional July 18 singers and more. Info: 719The Fort Garland Band 672-2080 Jam is more than a musical extravaganza; the event raises Conejos County Farmers funds to improve local arts Market, July 31-Sept. 4 programs and encourage young New this year, the market will artists. Held on the Fort Garland alternate between La Jara and Museum grounds, the jam will Manassa. Opening July 31 at the feature a beer garden, live music, La Jara Town Hall, 221 Broadway, dancing, food, merchandise and the market move to Manassa on the prizes. Info: 719-379-3482 east side of the Jack Dempsey Park on Aug. 14 and again on Sept. 4. Santa Ana y Santiago Fiesta, Featuring local farmers, gardeners, July 25-26 artists, crafts people, musicians, Each year at the end of July “Little Sprouts” children’s activities

Courtesy Photo and a community gardeners’ table the market brings together community fun. Info: 719-4801677, www.facebook.com/ conejoscountymarket

La Jara Glory Days, Aug. 1 A quintessential summertime celebration, La Jara Glory Days is a day-long event featuring a pancake breakfast, parade, live music, a street dance, vendors, scrumptious food and fun. Antonito Labor Day Festival, Sept. 5-7 Topping off the summer, Antonito’s Labor Day Festival includes a softball tournament, parade, artists, vendors, food and fun.

Photo by Sylvia Lobato

Photo by Zach Cerny

Adventure...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;One way to get the most out of life is to look upon it as an adventure.â&#x20AC;? ~William Feather

Catching the big one Fishing

Cutthroat, browns, rainbows, brooks, bass, pike, salmon and yellow perch — if you’re looking for great catches, the Valley has it all. One of the best chances to catch a trophy trout may just be a float trip down the Rio Grande. Those looking for stream and creek fishing will find a host of spots in western Rio Grande County, west of Del Norte and north of South Fork to Creede. Fly-fishing is best in July; try Embargo, Beaver and Rock creeks. The area also is dotted with 80 lakes and reservoirs, many remote, others easily accessible. Some 13 lakes and reservoirs are only 20 minutes from the town of South Fork. Among these are: • Million Reservoir — four acres of water, elevation 8,700 feet, rainbow, sightseeing • Big Meadows, — 114 acres of water, elevation 9,200 feet, rainbow, brook trout, salmon, German browns, great for kids and seniors, handicap accessible • Beaver Creek Reservoir — 114 acres of water, elevation 8,850 feet, same amenities as Big Meadows; currently closed, check online for updates • Shaw Lake — 20 acres of water, elevation

9,850 feet, great trolling for cutthroats and brookies, handicap accessible, boat ramp and restrooms • Alberta Park Reservoir —elevation 10,202 feet, forest and meadows, large trout and brooks • Hunters Lake — Eight acres of water, elevation 11,400 feet, fly-fishing good for rainbows, one-half hour hike from car • Tucker Ponds — Four acres of water, elevation 9,700 feet, rainbows, great for children and novices, camping, picknicking, restrooms, handicap accessible • Pass Creek Pond — Good for bait and fly fishing, rainbows, limited parking • Three high mountain lakes — Archuleta, Crystal and Crater — are all between 11,300 and 12,700 feet elevation; Archuleta and Crystal require a four-wheel drive vehicle or involve a difficult hike. The Conejos River also is excellent for wild browns and rainbows. Sanchez Reservoir and San Luis Lakes have experienced extremely low water levels since 2013. Check online for updates. Info: 719-587-6900, www.cpw.state.co.us

Photo by Zach Cerny

A modern taste of the Old West The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad (RGSR) offers nostalgic and entertaining excursions in one of the most beautiful and historic areas of the Rocky Mountain region, the San Luis Valley. It begins at the historic Alamosa depot, built when the city was the narrow gauge railroad hub of the Colorado mountains and continues eastbound along the La Veta Pass route, which is the highest point at which any standard gauge railroad crosses the Rocky Mountains. Deluxe cars, once part of the fabled “train they call the city of New Orleans,” carry the rider into the opulent 1880s. Carefully restored, the Mardi Gras and Calumet cars offer not only fine dining, but a taste of yesteryear. Arlo Guthrie made the train immortal and the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad is carrying on that tradition. All-day club car specials feature several restored cars, service and fine dining harking back to railroading’s heyday. Departing Alamosa each day during the summer season, which begins May 22, excursion trains travel to La Veta, another historic railroad town. Scenery includes railroad remnants and ample watchable wildlife, especially bears closer to La Veta. On select Saturdays, riders can experience

Rio Grande Scenic Railroad

train nostalgia aboard the allnew Valley Sunset Dinner Train with vivid sunset views of the San Luis Valley and a peaceful twilight return. Guests begin their journey with cocktails, appetizers and conversation in the art deco styled Illinois Central club cars with bar and lounge seating. The summer concert series kicks off June 14 with The Haunted Windchimes and will later feature country-star Mark Chestnut and Grammy-award winner Suzy Bogguss. This trip will take guests to Fir, atop La Veta Pass, where a special, Earth friendly, natural amphitheater (pictured at right) enhances the experience. Since this venue is accessible only by rail, the musicians and bands must ride the train to and from Fir, and jam sessions can erupt at any time. On June 20, it’s the railroad’s most popular event, Rails & Ales, featuring not only top entertainment, but a selection of products from more than 20 regional breweries. This one sells out fast. Beginning Sept. 16, the RGSR hosts Fall Colors Explorer excursions, allowing riders to experience the changing fall scenery and capture it forever

Photos courtesy of RGSRR via the camera lens. Railroad. Call for ride details. Trains occasionally head west In short, the RGSR offers to Monte Vista, as well as south something for everyone, from the to Antonito to meet up history and railroad with the narrow buff to the music g a u g e and beer lover. Info: 877Cumbres 726-7245, www. & Toltec coloradotrain.com Scenic

Photo by Keith Cerny

Photos courtesy of RGSRR

Swinging and swimming With 180-degree mountain views, clean crisp air and no hustle and bustle, those visiting the Valley can truly recreate while vacationing or just passing through. Golfing is a great experience, and the Valley boasts four courses, all in scenic locations, for those dedicated to the game. Cattails Golf Course The Cattails Golf Course on the edge of Alamosa offers an 18-hole course with a 71par

Golf courses

rating. Just north of the Rio Grande, with mountains ranging majestically on either side, the course features a driving range and putting green, cart and club rentals, as well as a full-service, pro line golf shop. Neighboring the clubhouse is full restaurant, The Grille at Cattails (719-589-6154), offering indoor dining, as well as outdoor patio seating. Travel north from Main Street on State Avenue, across the bridge, and the Cattails’ entrance will be on the left. Info: 719-589-9515, www. alamosacattails.com

Challenger Golf Course The 9-hole Challenger Golf Course in Crestone along County Road T is a semi-private course with long holes, laid out at the very foot of the magnificent Sangre de Cristo range. Info: Course, 719-2564856

Photo courtesy of Monte Vista Golf Club

Monte Vista Golf Club The Monte Vista Golf Club is nestled in the heart of Monte Vista on 40 acres. The nine-hole course was one of the first 15 courses in the state; it opened in 1928 sporting sand greens. In 1948 the club was incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation and work started to convert the greens to grass. The course was originally flood irrigated and many of the old dykes are still recognizable. Though the fairways are relatively straight, they are very narrow for today’s standards and are lined with trees of varying maturity. The greens are quite small and have Penncross Bent and their own strain of annual blue grass. All of these factors create quite a challenge for the experienced golfer and forgiveness for the beginner. There is a large driving range, and a quaint pro shop with everything a golfer needs to get on the course is also available. Tee times are recommended. Membership to the club is easy and affordable. From downtown Monte Vista, go west on Highway 160 to Dunham Street, then north to the course; or from Highway 285, go west on Prospect Avenue past the high school to Dunham Street, then north to the course. Info: 719-852 4906, www. monte-vistagolfclub.com Rio Grande Club South Fork’s Rio Grande Club is a world-class golf course featuring 18 holes, with eyepleasing rock outcroppings and shots across the Rio Grande. The front nine holes are replete with mountain views of pine, cottonwood and aspen trees. The clubhouse offers dining at the award-winning Timbers Restaurant. Info: 719-873-1995, www. theriograndeclub.com

Hot springs & pools

Visitors looking for relaxation may want to bask in one of the Valley’s swimming hot spots. Whether looking for soothing waters or for entertainment, there are a few to choose from.

ranging from 98-100 degrees Fahrenheit in the pool to 107 degrees in the spa. Somewhat cooler, the children’s pool is shallow and safe for little ones. Offering scenic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, suits and water toys are available for rent at the well-appointed snack bar next to the pool. Camping, RV and family trailer parking, tent sites and some cabin options are available. Info: 719378-2807, www.sanddunespool. com

Indoor Water Park at the Rodeway Inn Located within the Alamosa motel, this water park is a stateof-the-art, year-round place to play. The heated water offers a 21-foot-high water slide, a small slide for the little ones, a kiddie pool, a recreation pool, jacuzzi, water games such as basketball Splashland and volleyball. Info: 719-589Splashland has a warm, 5833, www.innoftherio.com geothermal outdoor swimming pool that has been an important Joyful Journey part of Alamosa’s history since Hot Springs Spa 1955. The Joyful Journey Hot Springs Newly remodeled with a Spa offers geothermally heated concession stand, two 50-ft. waters in three pools. waters slides, picnic area and A variety of therapies are other amenities, the pool is open available, along with massage. seasonally and is located one mile O n - s i t e a re h o t e l a n d north of Alamosa on Highway conference facilities, along with 17. Info: 719-589-6258, www. dry RV accommodations and tent splashlandllc.com camping; also available to rent are tipis and Mongolian yurts. Valley View Hot Springs at Laundry and shower facilities the Orient Land Trust are also available. Clothing optional, the pools at Open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 this historic facility are heated by p.m., the facility is 50 miles north geothermal springs gushing out of Alamosa on Colo. Highway of the terrain high on the Sangre 17. Info: 719-256-4328, www. de Cristo Mountain range. joyfuljourneyhotsprings.com Valley View Hot Springs is a beautiful, historic village that Sand Dunes Swimming Pool offers a safe and natural place Among the favorite Valley to relax and enjoy low-impact, swimming spots is the Sand off-grid enjoyment. On site are Dunes Swimming Pool, also restored, historic mining cabins known as the “Hooper Pool.” that are available for rent, along Created when early oil drillers with a sauna and ample hiking struck hot water, this pool has opportunities. offered hot water recreation to The campground is open yeargenerations of swimmers. round. Memberships are for sale T h e p o o l s a re fe d by and ensure admission. Info: 719geothermally-heated waters, 256-4315, www.olt.org

Photo by Jennifer Alonzo

Photo by Ashli Adams

Outdoor haven Recreation opportunities

The amount of fun one can have in the San Luis Valley is limitless, bounded only by the body and the imagination.

Camping Abundant campsites have been created in the Rio Grande National Forest and near special attractions in the area. The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve offers sites with amenities for RVs, trailers and tents. Backpackers are welcome to hike anywhere in the park for a primitive experience. This is true across the Valley, as camping is available from Fort Garland all the way to Creede, and from Crestone across the Valley to Conejos and Costilla counties. Expansive wilderness in the mountains offers the backpacker and hiker unlimited opportunities. Photo by Shannon Gonzales

Watchable wildlife The Valley is home to the Alamosa and Monte Vista

national wildlife refuges, which are year-round homes to big game, small animals and all sorts of birds. Migratory birds, such as thousands of Sandhill Cranes, draw crowds in spring and late summer; this is also the central flyway for ducks and geese, and small songbirds enjoy the clear air. The appearance of the Bald Eagle and other raptors isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t uncommon. More than 100 species of birds have been seen around the area, and Colorado Gators, a private wildlife refuge north of Alamosa, hosts all manner of reptile; large birds, swans, geese and many other creatures call the area home. The preserve part of the sand dunes is also an important part of the park, and abundant wildlife may show itself there. Access is limited. At the dunes themselves, deer and an occasional squirrel or

Photo courtesy of Kristi Mountain Sports

chipmunk will enter the camping climbers. area. Insects, including a species Penitente Canyon offers found only on the dunes are numerous hiking routes, ample abundant. opportunity for exploration. High on the canyon wall, someone Bicycling painted a fresco of the Virgin Bike riders of all ages and Mary. Primitive camping is experience will find adventure available as well. in the mountains, with terrain A n e a s i e r, b u t n o l e s s ranging from easy to thigh- spectacular, climbing area is burning climbs. The terrain the La Garita Arch, a windb e t w e e n D e l N o r t e a n d carved window in a sheer rock Summitville is legendary, but so formation. Improved camping are the bike paths down below. is nearby and the arch can be Almost every Valley com- accessed via FSR 660. Info: munity has special bicycle Saguache Ranger District, 719lanes along the city streets, 655-2547 and roads branching off each community offer exercise and ATVs and 4-wheelers an opportunity to explore. Many Valley sites can be Riding along the rough roads accessed by ATVs and 4-wheelers, and shale surfaces beyond the Old but there are restrictions in many Spanish Trail monument east of parts of the national forest. Del Norte also offers adventure Look for signs and posted areas for experienced bikers, and travel when exploring the backcountry. along the highways accesses The flat Valley at the foot of the interesting historic and the Sangre de Cristos is open, agricultural areas for which the but not really exciting, so the Valley is famed. road to Lake Como has become Cyclists can also travel to popular for travel, as has the Penintente Canyon, the mines area around the historic Uracca above Creede and the La Garita Cemetery and several historic Arch. cabins in the area. An interesting trip is to the Hiking and climbing mining areas, where hiking is From sheer cliffs to massive tedious and normal vehicle travel piles of boulders and spectacular is all but impossible. remnants of Earth’s creation, it’s a hiker’s, biker’s and climber’s Fishing paradise. While lake fishing has been Among the most spectacular greatly affected by recent and challenging are the cliffs and droughts, the rivers and creeks formations in Penitente Canyon, are more than generous. the Creede Caldera and Wheeler A trip to fly-fish in Conejos Geologic Area, both of which are Canyon is one of the most popular difficult to access. All are popular, fishing excursions, while the Rio but come with a cautionary note Grande above South Fork is a Gold for even the most experienced Medal River.

Popular fishing spots include Platoro, one of the state’s highest man-made reservoirs, big Meadows and Tucker Ponds near South Fork, Smith Reservoir near Blanca and Sanchez Reservoir south of San Luis. Small creeks and brooks offer abundant small “brookies,” while the larger lakes and rivers are home to Rainbow, Brown and Cutthroat trout. There are restrictions on catching and keeping cutthroats, however. Free fishing is offered during the first full weekend in June. After that time, fishing licenses are required for anyone over age 16; they can be purchased at many area businesses. Info: 1-800-244-5613, www.cpw. state.co.us

Photo courtesy of Kristi Mountain Sports

Peculiar places Colorado Gators Reptile Park

Whole family fun is available at one of the San Luis Valley’s most unique attractions. Colorado Gators Reptile Park offers visitors an opportunity to see alligators, crocodiles, rattlesnakes and giant pythons, lizards, turtles, ostriches, emus, peacocks, snapping turtles, an albino python and more. The park’s most famous attraction may be Mr. Bo Mangles, one of only 50 albino alligators in the world. Other popular gators are Sir Chomps O’Lot, the first alligator hatched in Colorado and Morris, a retired movie star who appeared in the 1996 movie, “Happy Gilmore.” New to the park this year is Jaxson, an eight-foot female alligator confiscated from a Los Angeles backyard in January. There are more than 200 alligators on display, but that isn’t all the park offers. More than 200 species of birds have been spotted at Colorado Gators, including the rare Egret. Exotic plants, such as bamboo and papyrus, can also be found in the greenhouse, fish breeding area. Also, don’t miss the large African Sulcata tortoises that wander the park. Visitors can view the animals and feed the gators, and a brave few even have the chance to wrestle an alligator. Erwin Young started the operation as a tilapia farm in 1977 on 80 acres. He built the hydroponic system, which uses fish waste for nutrients, for the tropical plants that started growing around 20 years ago. The integrated ecosystem is very unique and uses plants to recycle fish waste and

alligators to recycle the dead fish. Colorado Gators grows the plants to feed the herbivores, like tortoises, on the farm. The park is located 17 miles north of Alamosa on Highway 17. They are open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free for children 5 years old and under and seniors over 80 years old, $7.50 for children from 6-15 years old and seniors, $15 for adults. I n fo : 7 1 9 - 3 7 8 - 2 6 1 2 , w w w. coloradogators.com

Photos courtesy of Colorado Gators

SLV Tourism Association...

Photo by Shannon Gonzales

The mission of the San Luis Valley Tourism Association (SLVTA) is to preserve the Valley’s environmental and cultural resources by unifying marketing efforts to promote the San Luis Valley as a destination and thereby developing responsible economic growth for the six counties of the San Luis Valley. Over the past year, SLVTA has done a lot of work promoting the San Luis Valley, including cooperative advertising in various publications showcasing their “Keep it Cool in the San Luis Valley” campaign. Info: www.sanluisvalley.org

UFO Watchtower

The truth is out there—“far out” in the mystical San Luis Valley that is. Cattle rancher turned UFOlogist Judy Messoline, built the UFO watchtower in 2000 after hearing the numerous stories of cattle mutilations and UFO sightings from many local ranchers and residents in this otherwise quiet agricultural valley. Allegedly, there have been documented sightings of unexplained aircraft in the area since the 1600s. Several psychics, who have visited the 600acre property, have reportedly told Messoline there are two large vortexes located east of the tower. A vortex is an interdimensional portal that links to a parallel universe. The center, where the two vortexes overlap is called “The Eye of the Pisces.” There is a “Vortex Garden” created in front of the platform where people can leave items

for good luck. There is also a sign that states “It is bad, bad Karma to move or take anything from the garden.” Many people, including Messoline, have seen unexplained lights and shapes in the sky, and there have been an estimated 20,000 visitors to the watchtower since it opened. A great view is offered from the platform, which overlooks the garden and onto the horizon. If you want to believe, it only costs $2 to visit the UFO Watchtower or $5 per car. Camping is available year-round, and now taking reservations at the tower is GG’s Bed & Breakfast (805-886-6959). The watchtower is located 17 miles north of Alamosa near Hooper. Enter from Highway 17. Info: 719-378-2296, www.ufowatchtower. com

Photo by Teresa L. Benns

Photo courtesy of Mudita Camel Dairy

Mudita Camel Dairy

Camels in Colorado? With only about 3,000 camels in the entire United States, Matthew and Meghan Stalzer made a life-changing decision to begin a camel dairy in the San Luis Valley. Mudita Camel Dairy, near Moffat, is currently home to four camels with hopes to expand to 10 in the future. Nine-foot, 1,500-pound Dora and 1,600-pound Big Mama are African camels while Niam, is a half painted camel, a breed from the Canary Islands. Dora’s baby, Maya, was welcomed to the farm on Jan. 28, 2015, weighing in at approximately 100 pounds. Rare challenges come with running a camel dairy. A camel will only drop milk when her calf is present and will only milk for a few minutes; however, a camel can still produce about 12 pints of milk each day. Camel milk is the most similar to human mother’s milk and contains 10 times more iron and three times more vitamin C than cow’s milk, according to The Huffington Post. The milk could potentially benefit disorders including diabetes and autism. In addition to selling milk, Meghan uses camel fiber to create baby booties, hats and other products. Info:303-550-1482,www.muditacamels.com

Getting there...

San Luis Valley map

~Confucius

Photo by Teresa L. Benns

Nature...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.â&#x20AC;? ~Albert Einstein

Backcountry bliss National forests & wildlife refuges

National forests On the Valley’s west side, those visiting for the first time will encounter The Rio Grande National Forest, encompassing 1.83 million acres filled with some of the most scenic wilderness treasures in the state. High up in the San Juan Mountains, the Rio Grande begins its 1,800-mile trek to the Gulf of Mexico. The Continental Divide runs for 236 miles along most of the western border of the forest, and 14ers and lower peaks topping the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range form the eastern border. The San Luis Valley lies between these two ranges. The Rio Grande National Forest is open, free of charge, for visitor use and enjoyment, although fees may be charged and permits required for some activities and locations. The Forest Service Office is located on Highway 160 between Monte Vista and Del Norte. Info: 719-852-5941 BLM land The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) purpose is to preserve wildlife and riparian areas, protect ecosystems, manage river resources, supervise permitted grazing and allow for recreational activities on its lands. It encompasses 33 miles of the Rio Grande River, from the southern border of the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge to the Colorado/New Mexico border. The natural area extends out one-quarter mile on either side of the river, totaling more than 10,000 acres; approximately 35 percent is BLM land. The San Luis Valley Field Office is located at

1313 E. Highway 160 in Monte Vista. Info: handicapped www.blm.gov/co individuals can also enjoy Alamosa and Monte Vista birdwatching national wildlife refuges at the salty The headquarters for both the Alamosa and marshlands. Monte Vista refuges is located four miles east The Blanca Wetlands are of Alamosa on Highway 160 and two miles located 11 miles northeast of Alamosa on south on El Rancho Lane. To reach the Monte County Road 2S. Info: 719-274-8971 Vista Refuge, travel six miles south of Monte Vista on Highway 15. Zapata Ranch/Refuge Among the greasewood and the saltbush The 103,000-acre Zapata Ranch next door on the 11,169-acre refuge, visitors will to the Great Sand Dunes National Park is home discover a wide variety of songbirds, water to buffalo, bobcats, coyotes, a plethora of bird birds, raptors, mule deer, beaver and coyotes. species, mule deer, elk and horned lizards. The larger Monte Vista refuge covers Insects, native to the area, will be of 14,084 acres and boasts waterfowl and many interest, and nature lovers will delight in birds. Info: 719-589-4021 cactus varieties and wildflowers abundant in the spring. Baca National Wildlife Refuge The ranch is located just off Highway 150 Currently, the 92,500-acre Baca National near the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Wildlife Refuge covered by wetlands, Mosca. Info: 719-378-2356, www.zranch.org sagebrush and riparian lands in Saguache and Alamosa counties is closed to the public. Russell Lakes To reach Russell Lakes from Saguache, Blanca Wetlands go nine miles south on U.S. Highway 285 There are 158 species of shorebirds that to County Road R, then one and one-half take refuge at the Blanca Wetlands, birds miles east to the property, spread across one would normally expect to find along the 793 luscious acres. seashore. In addition to birds, visitors will The lakes are an excellent choice for wildlife also find amphibians, mammals, fish and observation, and hunting is permitted for insects. Trails are wheelchair accessible so rabbit, dove and waterfowl.

Valley 14ers...

There are 54 mountains in Colorado above an elevation of 14,000 feet. Of those 54, 10 are located in the San Luis Valley: Blanca Peak – 14,345 feet, Crestone Peak – 14,294 feet, Crestone Needle – 14,197 feet, Kit Carson Peak – 14,165 feet, Challenger Point – 14,081 feet, Hombolt Peak – 14,064 feet, Ellingwood Point– 14,042 feet , Mount Lindsey – 14,042 feet, Little Bear Peak – 14,037 feet and San Luis Peak – 14,022 feet A hiker should always be prepared for changing weather in the mountains. It is not wise to go on a hike alone, and someone should always know of the hiking plan and the scheduled time for return. Info: www.14ers.com

Photo by Zach Cerny

Everchanging sands of time The shifting sands that comprise the Great Sand Dunes National Park were once home to prehistoric man, who coexisted then with the woolly mammoth, a form of prehistoric bison and some say even a shaggy sort of camel — this archeologists have determined by sifting through artifacts at the site. In their oral traditions, the Jicarilla Apaches and the Ute Indians reflect the ever-changing face of the dunes, describing them as “the land that goes up and down” or “the land that goes back and forth.” Several tribes saw great spiritual significance in the mountains surrounding the sandy expanse; some believe it was the birthplace of their ancestors. Native Americans also harvested bark from the pine trees within what is now the Great Sand Dunes National Park for practical and medicinal purposes. Eventually the great sand dunes became a national monument in 1932 and in 2004, a national park. This last effort was undertaken to preserve the dunes system and its associated hydrologic and geologic systems as a unique environmental e c o sys te m , c o m p r i s e d o f

Great Sand Dunes National Park

numerous fascinating natural features to be found only in the sand dunes. Each year Medano Creek pulses through the dunes, flowing along the southeastern side. The creek provides great fun during late spring. Mid-to-late May is typically the best time to visit and enjoy the creek. Water usually surfaces in April and lasts into the summer months, though visitors may have to hike to find it in the early and late seasons. During the late spring/ summer the creek dries up and the flow disappears into the groundwater system. Some of the plant and wildlife features include a number of pine species, also juniper, c o t to nwo o d s a n d a l p i n e wildflowers. Wildlife species such as ptarmigan, marmots, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bears, shrews, mule deer, elk, pronghorn, turkeys, dusky grouse, burrowing owls and martens inhabit the park. A variety of fish and bird

species also are native to the dunes’ riparian system, and some insects found only in this region populate its sands. Five high, alpine lakes are complemented by subalpine forests and meadows from about 9,500 feet to treeline (11,700 feet). Montane forests and woodlands, dotted with pinon trees and ponderosa pine lie below the subalpine region, occupying land at about 8,000 to 9,500 feet in elevation. Grasslands and shrublands compose the lowest level at 7,500 to 8,200 feet. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of hiking and backpacking opportunities in the park. Both the higher spaces in the park, as well as the wetlands and grasslands are great destinations. Nature and wildlife photo ops will keep both amateur and professional photographers angling for more. For riding enthusiasts, guided horseback tours are available. Nearly all the park and preserve area is open to horse use, and

those wishing to bring in their own animals may do so as well. Please check the park website for details and permitted riding. Children’s activities include sledding and boarding on the dunes. Or let them loose on Medano Creek for a quick cooloff. Fascinating exhibits geared for school-age kids also are featured at the visitors center. Only at the dunes will visitors find such a diverse array of topography and species, something that makes the entire Valley an unforgettable study in nature. Visitors will never leave with anything but a memorable, entirely enjoyable and totally one-of-a-kind experience. Info: fees/camping reservations, 1-888-448-1474; programs, 719378-6399, 719-378-6300, nps. gov/grsa America the Beautiful Quarter features dunes The Great Sand Dunes National Park was honored in 2014 as part of the 24th issue of the America the Beautiful Quarters series. The heads side of the quarter features President George Washington, as can be seen on all of the other America the

Photo by Amanda Snow

Beautiful coins. The tails side offers a view of the sand dunes by sculptor by Don Everhart. In the image a father and son are playing next to Medano Creek. Other quarters in the 2014 series include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee; Shenandoah National Park, Virginia and Arches National Park, Utah.

Quarters depicting the Valley scene can be ordered f ro m va r i o u s d e a l e r s o n the Internet. They also are available from the United States Mint, which releases bags and rolls of the quarters for anyone to buy. To purchase the coins, go to https://www. usmint.gov/mint_programs/ atb/?local=GreatSandDunes

Photo by Jennifer Alonzo

Photo by Shannon Gonzales

Zapata Falls... Zapata Falls is a great side trip when visiting the sand dunes offering spectacular views. Summer afternoons are the best time to visit the falls. Those making the trek will be rewarded with magnificent views of the vast dunefield and the entire San Luis Valley, especially at sunrise or sunset. Those traveling to the falls should be aware that the trip is inadvisable for those unsteady on their feet. While walking, hikers should watch for slippery rocks. Water may be deep and swift, especially in early summer during snowmelt. Rarely, rocks may fall from above into the chasm. But with a few safety precautions the trip is well worth the effort, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the camera! To reach the falls from the dunes visitors center, drive south about eight miles along Highway 150, then turn east onto a gravel road. Drive 3.5 miles to the trailhead. Info:www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=74116

‘People space’ a reality Rio Grande Healthy Living Park

Those approaching Alamosa where Highways 160 and 17 merge soon will be greeted by a picturesque 38-acre open growing space — a people space, where visitors and residents can celebrate the San Luis Valley’s rich agricultural heritage in a participatory and visible way. The park is being developed in partnership with the Sangre de Cristo Natural Heritage Area in order to facilitate the preservation of the region’s profound historical, religious, environmental, geographic, geologic, cultural and linguistic resources. The vision of the creators of the Healthy Living Park encompasses amulti-usetypeof“park,”modeled after the idea of a business park with several occupants of the space working together under a common management principle. In regards to preserving open space it is a public park, but will also be a working farm where

individuals and families can come to grow their own food. An orchard is included in site plans as well. One of the park’s developers, Julie Mordecai, is very familiar with Denver’s botanical gardens, and so the park also will serve as a botanical and horticultural area. In addition, it will function as a year-round market for local produce through the use of greenhouses, potentially providing fresh food to area schools. A commercial kitchen also is on the site’s planning agenda. But that is not all. Walking trails will be landscaped into the site plan to provide exercise and a peek at the many wildlife species along the west banks of the Rio Grande. A pedestrian bridge will connect the park with Alamosa’s Cole Park. The Healthy Living Park will become an ideal location for live events, such as concerts and weddings,

also other community events and gatherings, as playground and other recreational options are planned for the park as well. A design team has recently been hired for the project. The pre-planning phase for park construction began in April and will extend through January 2016, with construction beginning in the spring of that year. This spring and summer, workshops are scheduled for the community to weigh on design features of the site. Eventually the public will see how they have contributed to the project as a site schematic is developed, tentatively set for July. “The vision for the park is to give people a ‘sense of place’ there — there is a big movement in the country for place-making,” Mordecai said. “People can gather there, learn to be with each other, own their own family gardening plot and use the commercial kitchen for canning.”

Photo courtesy of RGHLP

The property potentially has some of the best soil in the Valley, she said, “deep, beautiful alluvial soil right on the river.” Mordecai is excited by plans to bring Guatemalan natives to the area to teach residents how to grow corn and other vegetable species “never before seen in the area.” She emphasized that the Guatemalans are a “vital part of the project,” to help everyone learn from each other. To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t possibilities for the Healthy Living Park, go to: http:// healthylivingpark.org

Photo courtesy of Adams State University

Discover Del Norte Since 2007, the Del Norte Trails Organization, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, has been building new, non-motorized trails and expanding on existing trails in the Del Norte area. These trails are open to hikers, bikers and equestrians, and there is a river walk trail accessible to fishermen and kayakers. The ever-expanding system of trails just south of Del Norte, offers a diverse terrain from easy to moderate in difficulty. The most challenging trail of the nearly four miles Lookout Mountain Trail System is a 600ft. elevation gain to the top of the 8,475-ft. Lookout Mountain.

Trail system

From the summit, one can enjoy views of the entire San Luis Valley to the east and the upper Rio Grande corridor leading west to Wolf Creek Pass and beyond. With the help and cooperation of Colorado State Parks and a Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) grant, a master plan was adopted by the town of Del Norte and the Rio Grande County Commissioners. Working in conjunction with the U.S. Forest Service and the BLM, wildlife professionals, historic and cultural experts and the Colorado State Parks, a way for people to partake in all the incredible features the area offers has come

Photos by John McEvoy

to fruition. This region is one of the least developed areas of the Colorado Rockies and provides an opportunity to be ahead in the preservation of this unique and special area from overuse and development while enabling a limited footprint access. Ongoing 2015-2016 projects in the Del Norte area are at the current Pronghorn site, south of town, as well as the Stone Quarry site, a few miles east of town. With help from Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) including two teams from “Veterans Green Jobs”lastsummerandtheColorado Youth Corps, the Stone Quarry Trail is shaping up to be world-class and right up there with Fruita— and someday soon—Moab. With over 2,700 total volunteer hours to date, the trails have some amazing stone work with big washes armored with large rocks, rock reinforced walls and great ramps to ride over. The views of the San Luis Valley make this trail system one of the most scenic in Colorado. The completed Stone Quarry trails are being used by the ASU Cycling Team, led by head coach Marshal Hartley and assistant coach Jerry Durran. There is still more work to be done this summer and volunteers

are welcome. Go to www.voc.org/ volunteer. Trail maps are also available for sale at the town hall and various businesses around town.

How to get there From Del Norte: head west out of town on Grand Ave/U.S. Hwy. 160 W from Oak St. approx. 0.5 miles to Pinos Rd.; continue on Cty. Rd. 14/Pinos Creek Rd approx. 13.8 miles to trail access. Info:DivideRangerDistrict6573321, http://www.delnortetrails. org/

Finding treasures Flowers & fungi

Wildflowers Those who choose to travel around on their own to find wildflowers will see them bloom from June to September. They grow along roadways, as well in meadows in every direction. They include flax, Indian paintbrush and wild iris, to name a few. The Colorado state flower, the Columbine, ranges in color from lavenders to pinks, to whites. State law regulates picking these flowers.

Mushrooms Going into forested areas visitors find many varieties of mushrooms, but they must be cautious when checking out the different fungi, as some are poisonous. This activity is most successful in late summer. When finding mushrooms: •Moisture – Mushrooms will likely flourish in damp areas of the forest. •Consistency —Hunters may be able to find mushrooms in the same location year after year. •Elevation—Growth of the mushrooms will vary depending on elevation, just a few hundred feet can affect the likelihood of finding the fungi. •Location—Mushrooms are found in forests, along trails, gravel roads and

Creede Caldera/ Wheeler Geologic Area Magma (liquid rock) seeping up into the Creede Caldera (crater) actually pushed it upward creating a dome, one of nature’s many rock wonders in the area. Creede Caldera is one of several smaller calderas (including Bachelors and San Luis), comprising the huge La Garita Caldera, created by an ancient super volcano that spewed 5,000 cubic kilometers of ash some

30 million years ago, scientists estimate. This can be compared to the 1.2 cubic kilometers deposited by Mt. St. Helen’s in 1980. It is the largest known eruption of its kind. Wheeler Geologic Monument or Wheeler Geologic Area (pictured below) lies just outside Creede. The 640 acres of volcanic spires reaching for the sky have inspired many to return again and again to this amazing cumulative mound of solidified, layered and weathered volcanic ash.

Among towering mountains many varieties of flowers and mushrooms grace the San Luis Valley. Though, visitors can find flowers and mushrooms in many different Valley locations, those discoveries can be made much more informational with experienced guides.

Rock wonders

Courtesy Photo

stream banks. •Timing—August is the best month for mushroom hunting in the San Luis Valley. A mushroom foray will be held on Aug. 7 and 8. For both wildflowers and various fungi, the best thing to take home is a photograph. Info: 719-873-5512, www.southfork.org Both the Creede Caldera and the Wheeler area are difficult to access so are lightly traveled. The awesome immensity and antiquity of the area is a consistent draw to visitors. The Creede Visitors Center can direct tourists to the area. Info: 719-6582374, www.creede.com

Penitente Canyon Penitente Canyon was historically a gathering place for the Penitentes of northern New Mexico, a Catholic religious sect. “Welded tuff rock” found in Penitente is the same type of solidified rock deposits found in the Creede area and issue from the same source — the La Garita super volcano. Penitente’s craggy mini-peaks draw climbers from all over the world. Some 60-70 different climbing routes are available and south-facing routes can be accessed year-round. No rock bolting is allowed at the recreation area. To reach Penitente, take County Road G (La Garita turnoff) off Hwy. 285 and go eight miles to the La Garita store. Just past the store, go left (after the pavement ends) on County Road 38. At the one-mile mark, turn right where the main road turns south and take the middle of the three roads. Follow the signs.

La Garita Natural Arch On the way to Penitente, visitors will find Forest Road 660, just past Old Woman Creek/ Canyon, a dirt/gravel road turns north for several miles to the La Garita Natural Arch (see photo on page 34), another of the area’s volcanic wonders. Info: 719-657-3321

Two years later

After the West Fork Complex Fire

Two years after disaster struck the Rio Grande National Forest, the communities affected by the West Fork Complex Fire are rising above the ashes and healing. Arial study results of the forest were released in February, revealing that 95 percent of the spruce trees in the area have either been infected by the infamous spruce beetle or are already dead. According to reports, the beetles will soon run out of food; officials expect that instead of moving on to devour another region, the beetle will simply die out. As the forest heals itself, the other issue that remains is how to prepare the communities around the forest for another tragedy. Groups formed during the fire two years ago have implemented several plans that include all four counties affected by the fire. Emergency plans have been reevaluated; trainings and seminars have helped teach businesses how to survive moments of disaster, and funds have been used to boost economic strategies to bring tourism in by utilizing the rich history surrounding the areas. A community group, RWEACT,

has been the foundation for several of the other sub groups that have formed in each county. RWEACT was awarded two large grants to help boost economies and to research ways to salvage the forest and the dead trees The burn scar created by the West Fork Fire, is open to the public and recovering rapidly. People venturing into the area should be prepared. Always be aware of falling debris, as dead and burnt limbs are likely to give away, blocking paths and roads, especially on windy days. Travel with a saw and shovel. Last summer a group of eight found themselves temporarily stranded because of a tree blocking the only exit out of Hope Creek. Pay attention to weather patterns and react with care when vacating the area. Flash floods can occur in a matter of seconds, and it is always safer to move to higher ground rather than try to beat the swift water out of the area. Forest officials continue to monitor the area, learning from the amazing healing ability of nature. Officials expect that after many years the area will become a subalpine meadow. Info: www.rweact.org

Photography...

The San Luis Valley offers no end of amazing scenic backdrops and activities worth photographing. But, it pays to be prepared before heading out to capture those fantastic memories. Backup batteries or a charger and a spare memory card should be packed along. Once you reach your destination be sure to experiment with different kinds of light and snap pictures throughout the day. Shooting with the sun directly behind you has been the rule of thumb for years, but taking photos from different angles can help to create texture and shadows. Amateur photographers can also find a bit of adventure in taking pictures with unique compositions. Many candid shots feature a family member standing directly in the middle of the picture with an interesting scene behind them. Mix up the arrangement a bit by resisting the urge to include everything in one picture; simple is often better. Photographers can also increase the interest by moving the subject away from the center and balance it with the rest of the photo. The most important thing to remember in collecting those vacation and outdoor moments is to enjoy the experience.

Photo by John McEvoy

The Arts...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.â&#x20AC;? ~Thomas Merton

Creative expressions Art in the San Luis Valley

San Luis Valley artists have amazing mountain views and scenery that varies from the desert-like sand dunes to wetlands and the Rio Grande River. These unparalleled surroundings have inspired works in paint, sketch, ceramic, sculpture and more. N e a r ly e ve r y Valley town hosts a gallery or shop that features fine art from more than 500 artists living in the San Luis Valley area. The Valley ’s artistic nature can be seen even among the signs and banners decorating local businesses. In between the peaks of the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountain ranges are more than one dozen art galleries and hundreds of individual artists showing and selling their work. In Antonito, the town’s magnificent Silo Park has murals telling the story of the Conejos County’s founding and development; down the road a lone silo is graced with a mural of the sacred cranes of the Valley; a warehouse tells the story of the sheep industry just outside of La Jara, and a family of metal sculpture whooping cranes sit along a field.

San Luis tells a story all its own in murals and public art, the story of the past and present. Monte Vista is adorned with cranes in schoolyards and parks, which showcase the story of the bird. Nature and history is shown in the public art around Del Norte, including the huge elk that sits atop a bluff just outside of town. Historic Creede is also in on the act with numerous opportunities for viewing art and plenty of galleries sure to help you find that piece of art to make your home complete. The town was honored as one of the governor’s arts towns in 2010. Whether you’re looking for paintings, photography, pottery or jewelry, you’re sure to be able to find it among the unique surroundings offered in the area. For information on specific art galleries, contact the local chamber of commerce.

Photo by John McEvoy

Celebrating 50 years Creede Repertory Theatre

The Creede Repertory Theatre began its 50th year this spring. With an all-star lineup of epic and original plays and their wellknown cast, the 2015 season is sure to be a hit. The theatre opened the summer of 1966 as a means of entertainment for the mining district in Creede. The theatre soon turned into the glue that kept the community together after the mining industry crashed in the 1980s, by bringing a steady flow of theatregoers to the tiny town that never sleeps. In the summer of 1966, the small chamber in Creede joined together with area pastor Jim Livingston and brainstormed ways to bring business to the town during summer months. Having the silver industry crash before their eyes, many residents fled the area, looking for better opportunities. The ones who remained cherished Creede and wanted to see the town they loved survive. A story of love, dedication and hard work

brought Creede out of the folds of time and set a stage for their future success. The decision was made to bring entertainment to the old opera house located on Main Street (see photo below); however, they needed performers to make that a reality. Letters were sent out to various universities around the country in hopes of finding students willing to come and put the theatre on the map. Only one person responded to the letter; Steve Grossman had a group of students (see photo on adjacent page) from Kansas University willing to come to Creede and help. After a long and tireless effort, the team was able to get the theatre up and running. The first play to ever grace the stage was Mr. Roberts, which was soon followed by The Bat, Our Town, The Rainmaker and

Born Yesterday. The plays were a hit, and the first summer brought with it the hope for a successful future for the silver town. In continued tribute to the past 50 years, CRT has modified the story of the theatreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s origins and written a play based on that time long ago. Written and directed by Nagle Jackson this tale takes place in 1966 during the first summer the CRT began. Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s re-imagined version of events has a paranormal twist to what actually happened that fateful summer. Ghost Light takes guests on a whirlwind back in time and adds flare to the original story. The cast will attempt to open the theatre while fighting against unforeseen forces of the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s epic history. Haunted by the ghosts of the past, while trying to secure a future will have the audience on their toes. Also on the schedule is another widely known play, Our Town.

Photos by John Gary Brown

This particular piece was first performed the summer CRT opened in 1966. The cast and crew wanted to pay tribute to those days gone by and revisit the play. Our Town is based on love, life and growth of a family in America. The play portrays the most valued lessons and experiences life can hold for a growing family. CRT director Michael Perlman will oversee the play that teaches one of life’s greatest lessons. The theatre is only one of a few in the country that caters to a repertory schedule. Repertory, by definition, means, “A type of theatrical presentation in which a company presents several works regularly or in alternate sequence in one season.” It is one of the most difficult ways to run a theatrical company due to the rehearsal requirements. Creede’s cast has long days and nights in preparation for each season. This alone sets the repertory theatre out from the rest and adds a unique, ever changing flare to what Creede has to offer. In celebration of the 50th anniversary, the theatre has planned many special events, including the release of a book the cast and crew have put together. Touching stories from the last 50 years will take readers through the theatre’s history. Come out, enjoy the summer in Creede and celebrate the last 50 years of theatrical success. A season schedule is available on the theatre’s website. Info: 719-658-2540, www.creederep.org

Ute Theatre...

The Historic Ute Theatre in Saguache was built in 1916 as a livery stable, but later served as a garage and blacksmith shop. In the early 1940s the height of the building was increased, and the present day Ute Theatre was built. In May of 2009 Christine Gydesen purchased the building and re-opened the theatre. The current seats are from the late 1930s or early 1940s; they are made of straw and have an interesting art deco detail on them. A 1952 Manley Aristocrat popcorn machine is still used in the theatre today. Extensive renovations have been done, including a 2012 addition of an espresso and wine bar. In addition, a full line of concessions is available. The theatre also plays host to a large stage, which allows them to offer theatrical events including plays, talent reviews, music and even conferences. A digital short throw projector has the capability of showing 35mm DVD and VHS format. The Historic Ute Theatre is located at 410 4th St. in Saguache. Info: 970-596-4521, www.theutetheatre.com

FAITH

Calvary Alamosa Christian Reformed Church Baptist Church 1861 Road 10 S. Alamosa (719) 589-3483 Sundays 10:15 a.m.

Southern Baptist 2160 Sherman Ave • Monte Vista (719) 852-5090 Sunday School 8:45 a.m. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday: 6 p.m.

Central Church of Christ

Creede Baptist Church

First Christian Church Disciples of Christ

First Presbyterian of Church of Monte Vista

Sunday School 9 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Wednesdays: 6 p.m. Bring & Share Dinner 7 p.m. Youth Group/Adult Bible Study 600 La Garita Creede (719) 658-2312

First United Methodist Church Sunday Services: 8 a.m. Communion 10:15 a.m. Traditional Service

2005 Mullins Ave. • Alamosa 719-589-2243 www.fumcalamosa.com

New Hope Church Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Sunday Youth 6 p.m. 25258 US Highway 160 South Fork 719-873-1202

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Sunday Services: 10:15 a.m. 1811 Grande Ave. Monte Vista 719-852-3424

These area houses of worship invite you to join them. It could be the start of a beautiful relationship.

9 a.m. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 518 1st Street • Alamosa (719) 589-6805

Free Spirit Christian Church Full Gospel Sunday Service 3 p.m. Prayer Services Monday & Friday 10 a.m. 6 p.m. Bible Study on Thursday 10 Moffat Way • Moffat

Pioneer United Church

200 Franklin Street Monte Vista CO 81144 (719) 852-3811 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Wednesday 7 p.m.

2nd and Broadway (852)-2555 11 a.m. on Sundays

Living Water Bible Fellowship Sunday Worship 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. 2910 Clark St. • Alamosa 719-589-6351 www.livingwateralamosa.org

South Fork Church of Christ

Presbyterian 630 Spruce Street • Del Norte (719) 657-3375 Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship 11 a.m.

0205 Birch Street (719) 873-1259 Sunday Bible Class 9 a.m. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Class: 6:30 p.m.

St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church

St. Stephen the Martyr Episcopal Church

St Francis Episcopal Church will be closing after the 8:30 service on May 3, 2015. Please join us on Sunday at St. Stephen Episcopal Church at 729 3rd Ave, Monte Vista at 10:00 a.m. Hope to you see you there! Rev. Robert Pope (970) 884-0171

Sunday Service 10 a.m. 3rd & Washington Streets Monte Vista • 719-852-3274

www.ststepchurch.wordpress.com

Take a spiritual journey Stations of the Cross Shrine

Strikingly life-like bronze sculptures created by renowned artist Huberto Maestas guide visitors along a recreation of the path trod by Christ during the last journey of His life, the Stations of the Cross near San Luis. The site is an especially popular tourist attraction just before Easter. The shrine was constructed in 1986 and dedicated in 1990. The sculptures were created as an act of love and devotion by the faithful of Sangre de Cristo Catholic Parish at San Luis, reflecting their spiritual traditions. The shrine embodies the vital role of religion in southern communities. Locals come to the shrine throughout the year for prayer, reflection and celebration. Visitors can find the stations along a one-mile walking trail that begins just off Highway 159, 19 miles south of Fort Garland and just west of San Luis. The stations are situated on a bluff above San Luis. Fifteen art pieces can be found

along the trail depicting the 12 stations of His journey, Calvary and Crucifixion. At the top is the shrine known as La Mesa de la Piedad y de la Misercordio (The Mesa of Piety and Mercy); the grotto features pink sandstone statues of the Virgin Mary and Saint Juan Diego. The mesa top pathway is also lined with many statues of the saints. As visitors walk up the trail, they are afforded spectacular views of several of Coloradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mountain peaks that tower over 14,000 feet above sea level, while San Luis and the San Luis Valley are spread at their feet. Complete the journey with a visit to the Memorial de los Martires Mexicanos, at the top of journey. The shrine draws an average of 40,000 visitors annually. Access to the shrine can be found at the northern portion of San Luis. There is no charge to visit the shrine. Info: 719-672-3685, http:// www.sdcparish.org/

portrayed in British author Gomang Center (pictured James Hiltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic work Lost below), www.kttg.org Horizon. Below are samplings of just Hinduism some of the religious centers in The Haidakhandi Universal Crestone open to the public: A s h ra m p ra c t i c e s traditional Christianity Hinduism. The Spiritual Life Institute D a i l y and the Nada Hermitage Retreat Center, a Catholic Carmelite Monastery, 719-256-4778, www. spirituallifeinstitute.org/Nada. html

devotionals, 719-256-4108, www.babajiashram.org

Photo by John McEvoy

When miners first built their tent city in the town of Crestone in 1879-80, they would have been thunderstruck to learn that 100 years later, gold fever would be replaced by a rush to spirituality, with Buddhist and Hindu temples dotting the landscape. In the 1970s-80s, international figures Maurice and Hannah Strong providedlandgrantstomonasteries and religious institutes to build retreat centers and monasteries in the northeastern Saguache County town. The resulting interfaith mix of groups that congregated in and around Crestone, and continue to flock there, has drawn many followers of different religious traditions to the area to recreate and meditate. Some have described the scenic atmosphere there as a Shangri-La type ambiance reminiscent of that

Crestone temples

Buddhism For Crestone Mountain Zen Center and Lindsfarne interfaith chapel activities call 719-2564692, www.dharmasangha. org; Yeshe Korlo observes the Nyingma Buddhist tradition, 719-256-5224; Karma Thegsum Tashi

Sanctuary House In the far southern corner of the Baca lies a sacred labyrinth that is a replica of the Chartres Cathedral dromenon in France, 7 1 9 - 2 5 6 - 4 3 1 3 , w w w. sanctuaryhouse.org

Photo by Teresa L. Benns

Photo by Staci Turner

History...

“Study the past if you would define the future.” ~Confucius

Guarding the SLV Fort Garland, Pikes Stockade

Established in 1858 to protect San Luis Valley settlers from Native American raids so common then, Fort Garland (pictured below) was one of only two forts in Colorado when the Civil War broke out in 1861. At that time Colorado was still part of New Mexico Territory. Because Fort Massachusetts, just six miles to the north, was vulnerable to attack and too swamp-like, Fort Garland was built to replace the older fort. Fort Garland was named in honor of Brevet Brigadier General John Garland, who then was the commander for the Department of New Mexico. The fort’s 20 adobe buildings c o u l d a c c o m m o d a t e t wo companies of 100 men and officers. Various companies of infantrymen, mounted riflemen and volunteers would eventually call the fort home. Once the Civil War commenced, the 200 men stationed at Fort Garland were put on alert and then called into service in 1862 to assist Texas Confederates in fighting the battle at Glorieta Pass. The pass is located at the southern tip of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains southeast of Santa Fe, N.M. This battle proved to be the turning point of the Civil War, fought in the New Mexico Territory. Following the war, Kit Carson

took command of the post as a Brigadier General, in recognition of his valor at the Battle of Valverde, also in New Mexico Territory. Carson was well known for his successful work with the Native Americans, and while at Fort Garland was asked to negotiate with the Ute Indians. For a time Carson’s efforts were successful and the Native Americans lived in peace with Colorado settlers. In 1867 Carson was forced to resign for health reasons. In 1876 the fort became home to the Ninth Cavalry, the Buffalo Soldiers, brought to the fort to subdue the Utes. Company G of the Ninth Cavalry operated out of the fort from the spring of 1876 until September 1879. The Buffalo Soldiers saw scant military action through their brief assignment at Fort Garland. After the Utes murdered Native American agent Nathan Meeker and his staff at the White River Agency, considerable additions were made to the Fort Garland garrison, and the fort became a primary base of operations against the Native Americans. In 1880, a Fort Garland battalion escorted the Utes to reservations in southwestern Colorado, bringing to a close the Native American wars. Fort Garland is open daily April-October from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Photos by Staci Turner

There is no admission fee for Ft. Garland members. The admission fee for adults is $5; seniors, $4.50; children (6–16) $3.50, and children under 6 are free. Group rates and military discounts are available. Info: 719-379-3512, www. historycolorado.org

Zebulon Pike built the structure during a harsh Valley winter in 1807. Journals Pike kept at the time were published and have been credited with influencing the U.S. conquer of the Spanishclaimed territory. The stockade site is open from Memorial Day to Sept 30. The gate is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Pike’s Stockade admission is free. Pike’s Stockade (pictured Pike’s Stockade is located east above) offers a look back into of Sanford just off Highway 285. a historic stockade along the Info: 719-379-3512, www. Conejos River. historycolorado.org

Sangre de Cristo

National Heritage Area...

Into the inhospitable Valley came the settlers of the 1850s, hoping against hope that the promises of the land grantor would come true. Along with them, they brought their heritage and created their history. Today, much of it is preserved in the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area (SdCNHA), home to the unquestioned birthplace of Colorado in Costilla County. San Luis, the first non-tribal settlement, was established in 1851. Many of the heirs of those long-gone settlers still cling to the traditions and Spanish dialects brought to the area by their forebears. That’s heritage. Sharing that history and heritage are the Hispanic and tribal settlers of Conejos County, who were joined by Mormons, Japanese, Germans, Swedish, Anglos, French and many more adventurers. Alamosa County, the third part of the SdCNHA is the child of a union between agriculture and the railroad. Once the regional hub of the narrow gauge, it welcomed people who came in on what the tribes called the “iron horse,” the Hispanics called “ferrocarril” and the growing Valley called progress. Blended together, the contribution of all these peoples and their progress is heritage. It’s also history and something the visitor can enjoy and appreciate. Info: www.sdcnha.org

Rich in heritage San Luis Valley history

The days gone by are alive and well in the San Luis Valley from historic water rights and the first incorporated town in Colorado to long traditions of farming and ranching; evidence of the area’s story can be seen around every corner. Theearliestknownhistoryofthe San Luis Valley includes massive volcanoes and other geologic events, which created much of the beautiful and unparalleled scenery that can be found from the Creede Caldera to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Some of the evidence of these events can be found in the extensive aquifer system and rock formations, such as Wheeler Geologic Area and La Garita Natural Arch.

Earliest inhabitants Long after the geologic wonders had shaped the San Luis Valley, Native American tribes, primarily Ute, but also Jicarilla Apache, Pueblo Kiowa and Comanche discovered everything the Valley has to offer in wildlife, water and other resources. Proof of those tribes’ activities, including arrowheads, pottery chips and campsite remnants, can still be found around the Valley. Petroglyphs depict life in the area before documented settlement. Though these interesting finds are intriguing, visitors are asked to leave those remnants where they lie for everyone to enjoy. Explorers Many famous explorers helped make the Valley a well-known destination for centuries. They include Juan de Oñate, Juan Maria Rivera and Juan Bautista de Anza from Spain. Another notable name associated with the early San Luis Valley was Kit Carson who commanded Fort Garland from 1866-1867. The fort also housed Buffalo Soldiers in the 1870s. During the Civil War, troops from the fort aided in keeping the west under Union control at the Battle of Glorieta Pass in New Mexico,

known as “The Gettysburg of the West.” That fort can still be visited today. Missionary Rev. Francisco Torres is believed to have named the Valley after the patron saint of Seville in Spain. He is also credited with naming the Sangre de Cristo (Blood of Christ) mountain range. Zebulon Pike came to the Valley in the early 1800s and created some of the earliest known writings about the area, including a detailed description of the sand dunes. John C. Fremont came through looking for a train route to California, and Captain John Gunnison found his journey slowed as he tried to cross the dunes.

Settlers Many settlers made their way into the Valley to live as fur traders and mountain men. They were faced with extreme weather and abundant wildlife. Settlements were created in the Valley in the 1850s. Most of the settlers turned to agriculture in the southern edge of the Valley. The first Valley town, and first town in Colorado, San Luis, was incorporated in 1851. These farmers also created the People’s Ditch, which has a propriety date of April 1852. They also continued the tradition of agriculture in the Valley, an industry that continues to thrive in the area’s abundant sunshine. San Luis de la Culebra, the area’s first permanent settlement, was established as a part of the Sangre de Cristo Grant in 1851. Native American tribes were known to attack the settlement. Fort Massachusetts was established in 1851 to protect settlers; it was here that the Mohuache Utes and Jicarilla Apaches were defeated by troops and ceded their SLV territory. Troops later found the terrain at Fort Massachusetts unsuitable and moved to Fort Garland.

Photo by Staci Turner By 1895, the tribes had been almost completely forced out of the Valley. As more and more settlers made their way to the Valley, Conejos, Costilla and Alamosa counties were formed. In 2009, the area was designated as the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area honoring a long history. Settlement started in the southern portion of the Valley with local leaders bringing groups over the trails from Santa Fe. The travelers created Guadalupe along the Conejos River, which was later renamed Conejos. Another group from New Mexico traveled north to establish La Loma de San Jose, which is part of what is currently known as Rio Grande County. These settlements grew into towns now known as Del Norte, Saguache and La Garita.

Industry Farming extended as far north and west as Wagon Wheel Gap between South Fork and Creede by the summer of 1840. Once silver and gold were discovered in the Creede area, the population boomed. The first strike was in 1889. Individuals eager to try their luck came to the area with big dreams and unbreakable will. Mining remained an important part of the local economy for

many years until operation halted in the 1980s. Exploration and limited mining activity have returned to the area, but nothing nearly as significant as the early rush. Del Norte also owes its start to mining, as the town was platted after gold and silver were discovered at Summitville. Trains brought great change to the area when they finally arrived, including the creation of Alamosa and Monte Vista. The Valley economy was boosted immediately, as trains were able to haul large amounts of the Valley’s resources to be sold. It also opened the Valley to those travelers who could not, or would not, have made the journey by other means. Center was thought to be at the “center” of the wide valley, and after its creation in the 1890s continued the agricultural tradition of early settlers. The area still serves as a primarily farming community. Other towns, cities and communities have sprung up in the Valley through its long, and often-complicated, history, but the origins of the area are still evident in nearly every location. Museums celebrate the unique identity of each community, as well as the shared traditions of art, agriculture and religion that have consistently unified the six counties and numerous residents of the great San Luis Valley.

Running free Wild horses

When native tribes, Spanish explorers and early land grant heirs came to the San Luis Valley hundreds of years ago, they did not all come on foot, and the offspring of horses they left behind remain on open range in Costilla County. Wild Horse Mesa is located south of San Luis, in Costilla County, in the magnificent San Luis Valley surrounded by the San Juan, La Garita and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges. The mesa area is home to about 150 wild horses (mustangs), broken into 12 bands, roaming on private lands. They are descendants of horses used by Spanish explorers or Conquistadores and brought to the Valley in the 1500s. Spaniards began bringing horses and cattle to North America starting in 1493, and explorer Vazquez de Coronado visited this region, crossing northern New Mexico, looking for the Seven Cities of Gold in his expedition of 15401542. Native tribes acquired horses in the 1600s. According to tribal historians, the Utes acquired horses from the Spanish in 1580. Tribal history says captive Utes escaped with horses from Santa Fe in 1637, making the Utes the first Native Americans to introduce the horse into their culture. Wild horses i n we s te r n Colorado

are descendants of horses escaped and released from the early visitors, as well as farmers, ranchers, miners or cavalry soldiers. Under Colorado law, wild horses are not considered wildlife; therefore the Division of Wildlife is not responsible for managing them. The Ski-Hi Stampede in Monte Vista, Colorado’s oldest pro rodeo, began with ranch hands and cowpokes riding and trying to tame horses and livestock that ran wild above the headwaters of the Rio Grande, but the most common mustangs are in the southern Valley, where their ancestors thrive alongside more than five generations of residents. Judy Barnes guards the horses on the mesa and takes pride in their heritage through the Spirit of the Wild Horse non-profit organization. They offer guided tours for the public to see wild horses still running free and wild, not in a sanctuary. Wild Horse Mesa is part of the Melby Ranch, which sells acreage and conducts tours. Info: 719-206-2759, www. spiritofthewildhorse.com Rick Binger of the Spotted Fever Ranch at San Acacio says he can tell those unique animals from others touted as being “wild,” due to their appearance. They look more like the Spanish horses that carried e a r l y humans here. A large group lives along the Rio Grande and he has watched how they act and look. They are really wild. Humans can’t come close and, when approached, they may pose and posture, then run away like the wind.

The horses on the Spotted Fever Ranch are fairly accessible, with county roads going into their territory. They’re easy to find, but Binger, his wife Pat and their ranch hands will take visitors on a tour, guaranteeing a great experience. The Bingers bought their 300acre San Luis Valley ranch in 2006 and decided it would be their new and permanent home. Upon learning that there are a large number of wild mustangs in the area, they switched from mountain trail riding to exploring

the mustang habitat. In a good water and foliage year, there will be colts running along with their wild mothers and their coloring and physique are like no other. Binger said the herd stays the same size, with lightning serving as the biggest predator. He has seen little evidence of animal predation and the magnificent stallions still run wild and free with their “harems.” Info: 970-222-3656, www. spottedfeverranch.com

Photos by Judy Barnes Photography

Chuggin’ down the narrow gauge track Colloquially called a “museum on wheels,” and saved from oblivion by an agreement between the states of Colorado and New Mexico, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (C&TSR) offers a trip into some of the two states’ most spectacular scenery. Traveling across the state line 13 times, the train follows a rail bed first constructed in the 1880s and now maintained by crews from both states. The narrow gauge rails are three feet apart, rather than the four feet, eight and one-half inches of the standard gauge, which runs briefly alongside it in Antonito. Its original purpose was to access the rich silver mines in the San Juan Mountains, and the more narrow gauge made sense, yet plans were underway to convert it to standard gauge when the “silver bust” struck, making the conversion impractical, even though the two gauges couldn’t connect to each other. Clouds of doom gathered over the tiny tracks, which hadn’t been upgraded since the 1920s, and the railroad was all but abandoned. It came alive again during a

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad natural gas boom after the second world war, but faded back to sleep in the 1960s. In 1969, the Rio Grande Railroad was given permission to tear up the track, but by then, the public was on board the bandwagon to “save the narrow gauge.” A great deal of the track had been dismantled when the combined efforts of public and private groups drew the two states together, and the remaining track and its rolling stock were purchased by Colorado and New Mexico. Renamed the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad over the high pass and deep gulch it traversed, the train soon began hauling passengers. The two states operate it via the congressionally authorized Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission. Big news came this past spring for C&TSR as the city of Colorado Springs

approved a lease agreement for a historic 1883 locomotive to be moved to Antonito where it will be restored to operating condition and run on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Engine #168 once pulled President William Howard Taft to the Black Canyon and spent most of its 50year working life chugging over Cumbres, Marshall and La Veta passes. The restoration will take several months, so the engine will not run during the 2015 season; updates will be posted online. Four different ride options are offered, including rides from Antonito

to Chama by train and back by motor coach, from Chama to Antonito by the same methods, Antonito to Osier by coach and return by train and the same from Chama to Osier. Osier is an old railroad camp, and a meal there is included in all fares. For all passengers, the open-air observation gondola provides unobstructed views of spectacular scenery, remnants of history and abundant wildlife. Bring along a camera. Specialty rides include a live concert train featuring “A Tribute to John Denver,” the Cinder Bear Experience train and more. Info: 888-286-2737, www. cumbrestoltec. com

Photo courtesy of C&TSR

Valley grown San Luis Valley crops

Agriculture is one of the most long-standing and beloved traditions in the San Luis Valley. From the earliest Hispanic and European settlers who traveled to the often harsh and rugged Valley to modern farmers who face their own difficult realities today. Water worries and economic instability have driven some out of farming, but others push on finding a way to continue producing the Valley’s main crops — potatoes, alfalfa, barley and lettuce.

Potatoes The first potato crops were grown in the Valley in 1882. Ninety percent of Colorado’s potatoes are grown in the San Luis Valley; the Valley is the fourth largest potato producer in the U.S. Some of the most popular varieties grown locally include: Centennial Russet, Russet Norkotah, Russet Nugget and one red variety, Sangre. The Valley’s cool nights and warm days provide perfect growing weather for the crop, resulting in a superior quality product that is shipped to restaurants and grocery chains throughout the South. Cold winters also greatly reduce the likelihood of disease. Planting starts in early May, and harvest begins in early September, lasting until early October.

Practically the entire crop goes to storage, is later washed and sorted in the warehouse, then shipped to its destination.

Alfalfa A major hay-producing region, the San Luis Valley hay crop rakes in millions of dollars each year for growers. Alfalfa is not far behind potatoes as the Valley’s second most valuable crop. Because of its high nutritional qualities, alfalfa from the Valley is purchased by dairies in northern Colorado and New Mexico. During harvest, the crop is laid in windrows with a swather then allowed to dry for seven to 10 or more days before it can be compacted into bales and stored for future use. Once alfalfa is planted, it usually grows in the same place for five to seven years. Sprinkler pivots are used to water the crop, but some crops are watered using flood irrigation methods as well. The first hay crop is ready by mid-June; the second comes on in late July, and there is a third cutting in September.

Barley To discourage weed growth and for disease control purposes, small grains are rotated every two years with potatoes. Barley and wheat are the main crops. The ancient grain quinoa also is grown in the area.

Photo by John McEvoy Until recently, the San Luis Valley produced the majority of the state’s barley. Malt barley Moravian 14, grown specifically for Coors Brewing Co., constitutes the majority of the crop. A variety developed by Coors, Moravian is planted with certified seed. The brewing company purchases only barley meeting stringent quality requirements. Coors barley runs a gamut of quality tests before approval for purchase. The barley kernels are assessed for moisture, protein, damaged and broken kernels, mold, foreign materials and any other irregularities. Owing to the nature of the brewing process, minimum germination for malt barley is 97 percent. Barley must be planted early in order to harvest the crop before mid-August, when the monsoon rains fall. Lettuce While machinery is used to plant and cultivate crops of head and Romaine lettuce, migrant laborers weed, thin, and then harvest the crops. Planting takes place in early May and the crop

is harvested in stages from mid-July to October. Migrant laborers cut and package the lettuce on assembly lines set up in the fields for instant transport to coolers, then on to grocery chains and food outlets. Special trucks take the boxes to a vacuum cooler. Refrigerated trucks then transport the lettuce to consumer markets in the midwest and northeast. Carrots Carrots also are grown in the Valley and shipped to western markets.

So much more For more tastes of the Valley, check out Haefeli’s Honey in Del Norte (719-657-2044) and Grande Natural Meats between Del Norte and South Fork (719657-0942). The Valley also offers homegrown deer, elk and buffalo meat, goat cheeses, Valley brews and much more. Also, don’t miss out on the numerous farmers markets held throughout the Valley.

Photo by Teresa L. Benns

A generational treasure Colorado Malting Company

The Colorado Malting Company (CMC) in Alamosa is owned and operated by the Coody (now Cody) family, who arrived in the Valley during the Great Depression to cash in on the then agricultural boom in the area and stayed to found a successful craft malting business in 2008. The company ’s website describes how Ramond “Pappy” Coody, originally from Oklahoma, turned his chico brush and alkali dust acreage out on Henry Road into fertile farmland that for many years produced barley for Coors Brewing in Golden. In addition to producing barley, Bob Cody, Ramond’s son, opened a dairy and continued to expand the farm into the 1970s. Eventually Bob’s son Wayne took over the dairy farm but sold the herd in 1994 to devote more acreage to barley and alfalfa hay production on 12 South Road. When barley purchases declined

in the Valley, Wayne put his many years of barley production to good use by converting his old dairy barn into a malting facility. Wayne’s oldest son Jason, who founded the business along with his father, now runs the malting company’s day-to-day operations. Wayne’s middle son Joshua helped with design and fabrication and his youngest son Bobby also is active in the business. CMC not only grows its own barley and other grains, but also takes the grain from malt to mash and roasts, smokes and crystallizes grains for custom brewing. The family counts itself not only as maltsters but home brewers, which after all, is how the business first began. They love nothing better than to help the home brewer by providing quality ingredients and “the freshest malts on the market.” Last year the firm went international with its malted gluten-free grains, thanks to the

work of home brewing advocate and gluten free product specialist Tim Cody. While any grain can be malted, CMC specializes in malting amaranth, quinoa and millet. The company boasts over 50 customers and growing. Every year, Colorado Malting Company thanks its amazing customers and friends by providing live local music, beer, tours and food both at the malt house and on the farm. This year’s Gerste Gemütlichkeit (Barley Party) will be combined with the firm’s first Rocky Mountain Malting Technical Institute (RMMTI) conference beginning Thursday, Aug. 13 followed by the 2015 Gerste Gemütlichkeit Saturday, Aug. 15. Beginning Friday, Aug. 14 at 8 a.m., attendees will hear from speakers at both the farm and in the classroom and will have an opportunity to see the malting process from beginning

to end. On Saturday a brewers panel and a distillers panel will talk about the use of craft malt in their art. Dave Thomas, author of the “Craft Maltsters’ Handbook;” Paul Schwarz, professor North Dakota State University; Mont Stuart, head maltster for MillerCoors and Bill Owens, president American Distilling Institute are just a few of the distinguished speakers booked for the event. Info:coloradomaltingcompany. com

Photos courtesy of Colorado Malting Company

Taste Colorado Anta Grande Elk Ranch

Five miles west of Del Norte on US Highway 160, between mile markers 196 and 197, visitors to the Valley will discover a unique southern Colorado icon. The Anta Grande Elk Ranch is home to docile elk and reindeer and the headquarters of the nationally known ElkUSA.com and Grande Natural Meats. G r a n d e Natural sells prime cuts of farm-raised USDA-inspected elk, buffalo, goat, whitetail deer, red deer and fallow deer, wild boar, rabbit, plus antler sets or mounts, many antler dog chews and even some Alaska Seafood. Owner, Rich Forrest, and his late wife, built the business from scratch starting 18 years ago and have become the nation’s largest elk meat retailer. Together with a charming ranch store, their key to success is the Internet, which gives shoppers across the nation access to healthy, all-natural meat alternatives. The ranch’s quaint log cabin outlet store stocks jerky and sausage, plus various frozen

red meat items. Discount meats are always available, as are the nationally distributed game meat dog foods and antler dog chews. Moving meat in large quantities, the inventory of all-natural meats is replenished regularly, guaranteeing customers fresh, recently flash-frozen game products. Their prices are very competitive and some of the lowest in the game meat business. All meats sold by Grande N a t u ra l a re derived from grass-fed, USDAinspected deer and elk free from steroids, antibiotics and animal by-products. The buffalo are grain-finished to ensure juicy, tender steaks. Forrest noted, “Now, everyone can enjoy full-flavored elk or deer meat without the wild gamey taste.” The products are shipped via UPS to some of the finest restaurants nationwide, including several local establishments. Additionally, their select meats sell in hundreds of natural grocery stores and chains in an

Photo by Staci Turner eight-state region. Products are prepared for sale by numerous independent USDA processors, three located in Colorado. Products can be sold to the public in affordable bulk packages ranging from whole animals down to fifth animal bundles of elk and as whole bundles down to one-eighth bundles of buffalo meat. Gift packages and jerkysausage combos for holiday and special events are also available. A number of their products have been highlighted in magazines and books, including ForbesLife and

Photos by Chelsea McNerney-Martinez

The Complete Venison Cookbook. Maxim Magazine’s 2010 jerky competition selected Grande Natural Meat’s buffalo pepper jerky to be in the top 10 nationwide. Also, in the winter of 2011 Grande Meats was featured in Cooking Wild Magazine with an article titled “Buying Meat Online.” This was a great compliment, as many of the other stories featured are some of the largest and most well-known providers in the nation. Since game meats are hearthealthy, running 90-95 percent lean, it can be assumed that the business will continue to thrive. “Physicians are recommending buffalo and elk for their cardiac patients much more often, and veterinarians prefer the nonallergenic meat for pets.” A new, rustic shop-freezer building, packed with game meat products seems to substantiate this optimistic claim, well stocked with hundreds of products. So, stop by the ranch and Grande Natural Meats for elk steaks, buffalo burgers, allnatural jerky or sausage, some really great frozen dog food or well-acclaimed antler dog chews. Or just make a trip to view the animals and say “hi.” We’re betting you’ll want to take something home with you. Info: 719-657-0942, www. ElkUSA.com

Trails of the past Scenic Byways

The best way to view the Valley is to take one of the scenic and historic byways. These roads are recognized due to their archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. They reach deep into the heart and soul of the area and are wonderful day trips.

Los Caminos Antiguos Los Caminos Antiguos (“The Ancient Roads”) is the best route to follow through the Valley floor – the northern outpost of 16th century Spanish territorial expansion. Begin the tour in the hub of the San Luis Valley, Alamosa; then venture to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve to experience the ever-changing landscape. The sand resting at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains is a beautiful, but perplexing site. Travel south to visit Fort Garland; then 15 miles south on Highway 159 lies San Luis, the oldest town in Colorado. Continue the tour into Conejos County and board the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Antonito for a narrow-gauge railroad experience. The tour is complete with beautiful views at the top of La Manga Pass. Driving time: 129 miles; 3-4 hours; Info: www.loscaminos.com

Silver Thread Scenic Byway and Bachelor’s Loop For a scenic 75-mile tour of the Valley’s San Juan Mountain range, travelers can course the paved byway year-round that winds through both the Rio Grande and Gunnison national forests. Once a toll road and the Barlow and Sanderson stage route, visitors can take advantage of breathtaking overlooks that offer insight into geology and local history while providing ample opportunity to enjoy spectacular views. The Silver Thread Scenic Byway took its name from the plentiful veins of silver along the wayside of this U.S. National Forest route. The route also traverses the

La Garita, Weminuche and Powderhorn wilderness areas. This magnificent display of mountain scenery begins in South Fork, runs on to Creede and then to Lake City. Visitors return to Creede by way of the Bachelor Loop, with its ghost towns and old mines. There are signs along the loop, and maps are available around Creede to help spot the sites along the 17-mile drive. Driving time: 2-4 hours; Info: 719-873-5512, www.southfork. org/silver-thread-scenic-byway

Old Spanish Trail Old Spanish Trail markers are located throughout the San Luis Valley, giving visitors an opportunity to see remnants of those historical paths that helped create the great Valley. Despite its name, much of the trail did not originate with Spanish settlers, but with Native Americans, who used the routes for trade. In 1829, Santa Fe, N.M. merchant Antonio Armijo forged a trail between two remote Mexican villages, using some of the Native American trails, creating a route between what is now Santa Fe, N.M. and Los Angeles, Calif. The

Photo by Teresa L. Benns trail opened up new territory for traders and trappers. Spanish expeditions also utilized the Old Spanish Trail routes to travel from Santa Fe to Utah where they would trade with the Utes. Spanish settlers navigated the trail as early as 1765 and continued to travel it for another 50 years. For approximately one decade preceding the Mexican War, settlers continued to occupy the trail. After the war, the Old Spanish Trail was competing with much more efficient wagon roads, which led to the trail’s abandonment. In 2002, the trail’s long history was officially recognized when much of it was designated as a National Historic Trail by Congress. There are three branches of the trail. One portion of the north branch runs through the San Luis Valley on two sides, these are the

Creede Mining District... While farmers were settling in the east side of the Valley, prospectors in 1870 found placer gold in the Wrightman Fork of the Alamosa River. Gold veins were discovered in the San Juan Mountains in 1871, and large-scale production started in 1875 after the construction of a mill. Operations were continuous until 1906, then sporadic after that. Some 520,000 troy ounces, or 16 tons, of gold were taken out of various large and small mines until 1990. Mining claims still dot the mountain sides around the area. Silverwasdiscoveredin1887intheCreededistrict in Mineral County, but it didn’t become a significant silver producer until 1891. The ore occurs as veins alongnorth-southtrendingfaultsandasreplacement bodies in the Creede Formation, a Tertiary ash-flow tuff. Ore minerals are sphalerite, galena, acanthite, native silver, pyrite and chalcopyrite. Production through 1983 totaled 80 million

east fork and the west fork. The east fork branches out from New Mexico into the Valley. It follows the western portion of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, passing through Ft. Garland and heading north past the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the town of Crestone. Then the trail appears to have turned west to the town of Saguache, crossing Cochetopa Pass into the Gunnison Valley and heading west to California. The west fork runs from the Antonito and Conejos area, crosses the Rio Grande east of Del Norte, cuts north to La Garita and then on to Saguache, where both forks likely merged. One easily accessible marker is located just off Highway 160, a few miles west of Monte Vista, on the south side of the highway. Info: www.oldspanishtrail.org

ounces (2,490 metric tons) of silver, 150 thousand ounces (4.7 metric tons) of gold and considerable lead and zinc. In 1985, Summitville Consolidated Mining Company, a subsidiary of Galactic Resources of Vancouver, British Columbia started open pit heap-leach mining at the Summitville Mine. Mining ceased in 1992, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency stepped in to prevent releases of pollution from the property. Hecla Mining Company owns a Creede area land package that includes the historic Bulldog Mine, which produced 25 million ounces of silver for Homestake Mining before closing in 1985 as a result of depressed metals’ prices. While exploration has focused on expanding the historic resources of both the Bulldog and the North Amethyst-Equity mines, the consolidated land package encompasses more than 30 miles of prospective veins and vein splays.

Rails along the rio Denver & Rio Grande Railroad

Dating back to 1997, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad (D&RGR) Historical Foundation was created to preserve the history and heritage of the D&RGR. Spearheaded by Don Shank, the foundation renovated rails between South Fork and Wason Ranch, near Creede. Then it began renovating a personnel carrier, which would become the Silver Streak, a rail bus that had historically transported workers. Now it offers a comfortable 10 mph ride for passengers. View the San Juan Mountains’ best scenery, while curious wildlife watches from the edge of the forests. It’s no secret the historic D&RGR was constructed to carry wealthy land speculators into the mountains, where it was hoped that they would make investments. Resorts along the way offered opulent accommodations, and the historic Wagon Wheel Gap Hotel offered swimming and soaking in geothermally heated, mineral-rich waters. The D&RGR rail bus still travels those rails, but makes the excursions available to anyone who wants to see what the pioneers did. The slow speeds ensure that cameras will be able

to capture the sites. The train travels along the rails between the depot at South Fork and Cottonwood Cove, itself a historic stopping place for travelers, which offers delicious foods and a souvenir shop. Then it’s on to the tall cliffs and the Blue Creek Lodge, tucked into a small canyon, with a full view of the Rio Grande. Lunches are not included in the fare, but meals are moderately priced. Riders may also bring their own sack lunches. The rail bus will turn around near Wagon Wheel Gap. The Main Event tour leaves at 10 a.m. daily from late May to early October, returning around 2 p.m. For even more adventure, the Rail and Raft bus leaves at 10 a.m. Riders bring along a raft and the train will tow it. At the mid-point the riders are dropped off and can raft back to the depot in South Fork. Afternoon delight tours begin in late June and run at 3 p.m. daily through August, while the special Rio Grande Moonlight trip leaves at 7:30 p.m. when there’s a full moon. I n f o : 7 1 9 - 8 7 3 - 2 0 0 3 , w w w. denverandriogranderailroad.com

Photo by Staci Turner

Preserving history Museums

Alamosa Luther Bean Museum The main gallery features a collection donated by Charles and Beryl Woodard. Two galleries contain artwork by Stephen Quiller, William Moyers and Joseph Henry Sharp. Upstairs, cases contain Native American pottery, including pieces by Maria Martinez, San Ildefonso artist; santos and retablos and weavings, including one by Eppie Archuleta. Hours: Visit adams.edu/ lutherbean for hours Admission: Free Info: 719-587-7151 Ryan Geologic Museum In 2004, Mr. Edward M. Ryan donated his collection of more than 5,000 fossils and minerals to Adams State for academic and public use. After exploring several possible homes for his collection, he determined Adams State was “the most perfect place.” Hours: By appointment only Admission: Free Info: 719-587-7921 San Luis Valley Museum The San Luis Valley Museum at 401 Hunt Ave. features educational displays of artifacts, photographs, antiques and collectibles portraying early ranch and farm life, as well as Native American artifacts, Hispanic settlers, the Japanese-American community, Adams State College,

Military regalia and early railroading. Museum displays show what an early mercantile or general store was like, along with a model historic U.S. Post Office of years’ past and a typical country grade school classroom designed around a fictitious Valley town. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Adults $2, Children/ students free Info: 719-587-0667 Antonito Conejos County Museum Located at 5252 U.S. Hwy. 285, it features memorabilia from the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, Silo Park, the 1913 Warshauer Mansion and the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free Info: 719-376-2049 or 1-800835-1098 Creede Creede Historic Museum Located at 17 Main St., in the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad depot, dating back to 1891-92. View old photographs, history reference books, a hand-drawn fire wagon, horse-drawn hearse and Bob Ford assassination mural. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. (Memorial Day through Labor Day) Admission: Adults $2, Children (under age 12) free, Seniors $1, Families $5 Info: 719-658-2004

Photo by Staci Turner

Underground Mining Museum The museum is at Photo courtesy of Creede Museum the edge of Creede on Info: 719-657-2847, 1-800Forest Service Rd. No. 9. Built by miners in honor of miners, the 233-4403, www.museumtrail. museum chronicles the history org/RioGrandeCountyMuseum of nearly 100 years of hard-rock Lookout Mountain Observatory Not a museum as such, the mining and shows how real silver mining was done. Guided tours Lookout Mountain Observatory run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Association celebrates astronomy cost $15 for all ages. Audio tours in Del Norte, which was once part of the Presbyterian College of the stop at 2:15 p.m. Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Southwest. Star parties are conducted (summer season) Admission: Adults $7, Seniors during the year at the Leo $6, Children (ages 6-11) $5, Fontenot Memorial Observatory located behind the Rio Grande Under age 6 free County Courthouse, which can Info: 719-658-0811 be used by active amateur Crestone Crestone Historical Museum astronomers. Info: 719-852-4971 Located in downtown Crestone at the corner of Galena Avenue Fort Garland Fort Garland Museum and Alder Street exhibits highlight Historic Fort Garland is a the Gold Rush days (1870-1920) of the Crestone and El Dorado proud historic landmark in the mining districts; 135 years of town that bears its name. Fort mountaineering on local 14ers Garland was once commanded (1877 to present) and the founding by the legendary Christopher and evolution of the 100,000-acre “Kit” Carson and was home to the 9th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers. Luis Maria Baca Grant. Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Hours: Weekends, 10 a.m.-4 p.m; weekdays, by appointment (summer season) Admission: Adults $5, Children (summer season). (ages 6-16) $3.50, Seniors $4.50, Admission: By donation Info: 719-256-4313 weekdays, Children (under age six) free. Colorado Historical Society 719-256-5227 weekends members and active military Del Norte Rio Grande County Museum and their families have free They came for the adventure admission. Info: 719-379-3512 and more. Stories from the past of individuals and groups who made Manassa Jack Dempsey Museum Rio Grande County history. Stories The Jack Dempsey Museum of Native Americans, fur trappers, settlers from New Mexico, gold (pictured at left) is at 412 Main seekers, farmers, ranchers, St., the birthplace of the legendary cowboys and merchants are told “Manassa Mauler,” the world’s in exhibits and displays. Seasonal greatest heavyweight boxer of art shows and traveling exhibits the 20th century. View a wealth are shown during the summer as of photos and memorabilia of well (pictured on adjacent page). Dempsey’s legendary career. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Hours: Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 (summer season) p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free Admission: Adults, $2, Children Info: 719-843-5207 $1, Families $5

Monte Vista Monte Vista History Museum and Transportation of the West Museum The history museum, at 110 Jefferson Ave. (next to Carnegie Library), houses more than 4,000 historical photos, and some memorabilia of Monte Vista and the entire San Luis Valley. To view photos and artifacts regarding transportation and agriculture in the area, visit the Transportation of the West Museum, located at 916 First Ave. History Museum Hours: Tues.Wed., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Transportation Hours: Thurs.Fri., 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. (Summer) Admission: By donation Info: 719-849-9320 Homelake Veterans History Museum Based at the Colorado State Veterans Center (CSVC) at Homelake, the Veterans History Center houses military and veterans organization artifacts dating back to the 1800s. The center also is home to a growing collection of military records gathered from old CSVC records and military veterans still living who volunteer them. Founded as the Soldiers and Sailors home to house homeless and elderly Civil war and Spanish American war veterans; 52 of the CSVC structures are listed on the State Register of Historic Places. An on-site veterans history museum houses memorabilia and artifacts gathered over the years, as well as what has come in since 2002 when the Colorado General Assembly passed a statute to establish the center as a repository for all unclaimed military memorabilia. Eventually, all this will be housed in the old administration building, itself a memorial to those who founded the center more than 120 years ago.

A volunteer has begun to catalog records, journals, books and memorabilia, some of which date back to the 1800s. Items already catalogued are on display and open to the public in the existing museum. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-3 p.m.; Sat. 1-4 p.m. (May through October) Admission: By donation Info: 719-852-5118 Saguache Saguache County Museum Some call it the best little museum in Colorado, the Saguache County Museum takes visitors on a trip to the pioneering era. Check out what’s cookin’ in the kitchen. Visit the schoolroom, the parlor, or see what an old western jailhouse was like. The museum yard contains antique farm equipment and much more. Visit the Hazard House, which can be rented for special occasions. The gift shop offers a large selection of books, t-shirts, sweatshirts and local crafts. Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (summer season) Admission: Adult $5, Children (under age 12) $1 Info: 719-655-2557 Sanford Sanford Museum Located at 778 Main St. in Sanford. Hours: By appointment only Info: 719-274-4382 San Luis San Luis Museum Closed, call for updates Info: 719-672-3611 For more information on all local museums, visit MuseumTrail.org, sponsored by the San Luis Valley Museum Association, “Your pathway to the history of the San Luis Valley.” Info: 719-580-4346, Facebook: museumtrail.org, museumtrail@yahoo.com

Photo courtesy of Rio Grande County Museum

Tasty cuisine

Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant

Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant at 400 Main Street in Alamosa has been serving hungry patrons since 1995, which seems to indicate they’re doing something right. Owners and head chefs Martin and Jose Lopez specialize in authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on offering a casual dining experience with exceptional food, served and presented by a welcoming staff. Calvillo’s offers a full menu and buffet seven days a week. Fresh salad, fruit and desserts are always available. Voted “Best Mexican Restaurant in Colorado” by News 4’s John Jones, Calvillo’s started out in a small building.

With an outstanding reputation and service, they have been able to expand to offer more options. Large banquet rooms are available for parties, along with catering services for special events. In addition, an extended full service bar and the most friendly bartenders yo u ’ l l eve r meet welcome patrons in for happy hour. Martin Lopez explains, “We want to be known as the best. We will do whatever it takes to keep our customers satisfied. We strive to keep things new and exciting. We’re always making changes, like our fresh mex grill, Mi Taquito.” Friday night Mariachi music gives diners a sample of the Mexican culture, and now

visitors can partake in a Salsa dance class for an even richer taste of authenticity. With the addition of a second location last March, at 580 Grand Ave. in Del Norte, Jose and Martin continue to strive to meet the needs of their customers. Offering a similar menu as the Alamosa location, the Del Norte restaurant focuses on giving its customers healthy options as well. In addition to the healthier

Photos by Jeremy Alonzo

choices on the menu, Lopez said they will also offer open face, soft corn tortilla tacos al pastor and carnitas, similar to those served at their Mi Taquito location in Alamosa. The lunch buffet is also a huge hit at the Del Norte eatery. Frequent visitors are impressed with the affordability, convenience and variety. In addition to the buffet, diners can order items on the buffet from the kitchen. The open face enchiladas with rice, beans and red enchilada sauce are a good recommendation. The margaritas are also delicious. Although there are a number of Mexican food restaurants in the Valley, Calvillo’s offers something special. Once you try it, you will understand why. Info: 719-587-5500, 719-6579122

Finishing up... Advertisers’ index

Absolute Shine..................................................... 13 Adams State University...................................... 5 Alamosa Family Recreation Center............... 7 Alamosa Round-Up.............................................. 7 Boogies Restaurant........................................... 39 Burris & Sons Bucking Bulls.......................... 11 Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant.......................... 1 Cattails Golf Course........................................... 27 Colorado Gators Reptile Park....................... 31 Conejos County Tourism................................. 21 Creede Arts Council.......................................... 43 Creede Chamber ..................inside back cover Antler’s Riverside Restaurant, Big River Music, Broken Arrow Land Company, Cafe Ole, Club at the Cliffs, Creede Snowshoe Lodge, Holy Moses, Kentucky Belle Market, Mineral County Miner, Mountain Views RV Resort, Off Broadway, Rare Things, Rincon Real Estate, Willowcreek Realty Creede Historical Society................................ 61 Creede Rock & Mineral Show........................ 45 Creede Underground Mining Museum..... 61 Crestone Historic Museum............................ 61 Crestone Music Festival................................... 19 Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad.............. 53 Denver & Rio Grande Railroad..................... 59 Doc’s Outdoor Sports....................................... 29 Early Iron Festival................................................. 9 First Southwest Bank.......................................... 5 Grande Natural Meats...................................... 57 Haefeli’s Honey Farms..................................... 41 High Valley Cannabis........................................ 19 Jack’s Market of Del Norte.............................. 39 Jade Communications......................................... 9 Kavleys Business & Tech Center..................... 9

Photo credits

Page 11: Little wrangler, John McEvoy; Page 12: Monte Vista Farmers Market, Jennifer Alonzo; Page 26: Little golfer, Shannon Gonzales; Page 35: Rabbit, Staci Turner; Page 36: Sand Dunes quarter, Courtesy photo; Page 40: Flower, Staci Turner; Page 52: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, Staci Turner

Ken’s Service Center......................................... 39 Kristi Mountain Sports.................................... 37 Lake City DIRT..................................................... 17 Lazy Wagon Wheel Pet Ranch...................... 29 Lu’s Main Street Cafe........................................ 21 Mark’s Outdoor Sports.................................... 37 Monte Villa Hotel & Cafe................................. 13 Monte Vista Co-op............................................. 13 Monte Vista Golf Club....................................... 27 Ooh La Spa & Boutique.................................... 17 Peak Motorsports.......................................25, 29 Quiller Gallery..................................................... 43 Rainbow Grocery/ Rock Paper Scissors.................................. 15 Rio Costilla Park................................................. 33 Rio Grande County Tourism.......................... 10 Rio Grande County Museum......................... 61 Rio Grande Hospital........... inside front cover Rio Grande Pharmacy...................................... 41 Rio Grande Scenic Railroad........................... 25 Saguache County Tourism.............................. 18 Saguache Recreation/Chamber................... 19 San Juan Log Works.......................................... 13 San Luis Valley Tourism Association......... 23 Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area..... 33 Shades, Quilts, Etc............................................. 13 Splashland Hot Springs................................... 27 Sunflour Bakery.................................................. 11 The Bridge.............................................back cover Twin Pines Motor Sports................................ 59 UFO Watchtower................................................ 31 Upper Rio Grande Events & Recreation Complex........................................................... 17 Valley Publishing/Shoppe..........................3, 31 Valley-Wide Health Systems............................. 9 Wild Horse Lake House................................... 51

Albuquerque, NM..................... 205 miles

Amarillo, TX............................... 352 miles

Taos, NM ..................................... 90 miles

Canon City................................... 139 miles

Austin, TX.................................... 892 miles

Colorado Springs...................... 163 miles

Dallas, TX .................................... 721 miles

Fort Collins................................. 274 miles

Chama, NM ................................. 79 miles

Cheyenne, WY ........................... 343 miles

Denver.......................................... 215 miles Durango....................................... 149 miles

Las Vegas, NV ............................ 800 miles

Grand Junction.......................... 249 miles

Phoenix, AZ ................................ 722 miles

Pueblo........................................... 122 miles

Oklahoma City, OK .................. 582 miles

Altitude sickness

When planning a trip to the San Luis Valley, keep in mind that much of the area sits above 7,800 ft. Symptoms of high altitude sickness include headache, lightheadedness, weakness, trouble sleeping and an upset stomach. These most often pass as your body adjusts. If you have confusion and difficulty breathing, even while resting, consult a doctor immediately. Severe high altitude sickness can be treated with doctor prescribed medications. A simple way to prevent altitude sickness is to take traveling to a higher altitude slowly, rest often and drink plenty of water. Those with certain lung and heart problems are encouraged to consult their physician before visiting the Valley.

Mileage from Alamosa...

Lincoln, NE ................................. 724 miles

Photo by Staci Turner

Photo by Jennifer Alonzo

Salt Lake City, UT...................... 540 miles Santa Fe, NM ............................. 173 miles

Gunnison..................................... 122 miles Pagosa Springs.......................... 89 miles

Salida............................................. 83 miles

Trinidad....................................... 109 miles