Winter Wonderland Express
From Denver, I-25 South to Hwy 160 West takes you into the majestic San Luis Valley. Alamosa has several lodging options to choose from for a great night’s stay. Enjoy a relaxing and tasty dinner at a great brewpub, or experience an authentic Mexican meal.
The next morning, it’s All Aboard the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad for a one of a kind winter train ride! See spectacular winter wonderlands from the warmth and comfort of our dome car. Stay tucked inside as our powerful diesel engines carry you to view snow packed mountain peaks contrasted with evergreen pines in remote valleys inaccessible by car.
Before heading back home in the morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and spend some time browsing our unique downtown shops.
Great Sand Dunes and Hot Springs
Great Sand Dunes National Park is open year round with the scenery and landscapes being equally as breathtaking as a summertime visit. Just a short drive from I-25 to Hwy 160 west leads you to the San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes Country. From Hwy 160, outside the small town of Blanca, Hwy 150 heads north right to the Sand Dunes. As you near the entrance to the Sand Dunes, the cascading slopes of snow covered sand magically appear against the bright blue winter sky. Although sunshine is generally abundant, temperatures will be cool so be sure to dress in layers. Even in the wintertime, a short walk out to the base of the dunes is a must! While at the Dunes, be sure to stop into the Visitor Center to check out the informational exhibits.
Close to the Sand Dunes, you will find Zapata Falls. Even in the wintertime, the falls are a site to behold! A short, uphill walk will lead you the falls, but be very careful, once you reach the stream, it will be icy and slippery. The falls freeze over in the wintertime offering amazing photo opportunities or even ice climbing for the more adventurous!
After an invigorating day enjoying the great outdoors, head to the Sand Dunes Swimming Pool, for a relaxing swim and soak. The hot well water enters the 150,000 gallon pool at 118 degrees and the pool's temperature is maintained between 98 and 102 degrees depending on the season. The adjoining 24 person therapy pool stays a consistent 108 to 109 degrees.
Once thoroughly relaxed, drive on in to Alamosa, check into your hotel and enjoy a great dinner at one of our many restaurants.
Snowmobiling
Load up your sleds, jump on 1-25 and head south to Hwy 160, taking you into the San Luis Valley and some of the best undiscovered areas for amazing snowmobiling. Stay the night at one of our lodging properties, and get a good night’s rest. After a hearty breakfast, head south on Hwy 285 about 45 minutes to Cumbres and La Manga Pass where you will find deep powder, blue skies, and no crowds!
You will be snowmobiling in the Rio Grande National Forest at just under 10,000 feet elevation. Annual snowfall is approximately 465 inches.
After an exhilarating day snowmobiling, head back to Alamosa for some of our authentic Mexican cuisine to warm you back up!
The next morning, head west on Hwy 160 to South Fork. For fantastic groomed trails, this is the place to be. Miles of trails of fresh powder await you.
Ice Fishing
For the diehard fisherman or woman, the San Luis Valley is the place to be, especially in the wintertime!
Begin your fishing expedition in Alamosa with a cozy night’s stay at one of our lodging properties, and fill up on a hearty meal. Before turning in for the night, stock up on fishing supplies (Big R 719-587-0435) and outdoor gear, and don’t forget to pack a lunch!
Begin your ice fishing adventure by heading west on Hwy 160. Just outside of South Fork is Beaver Creek Reservoir. This 114 acre reservoir is a State Wildlife Area with vehicle access to the parking lot near the boat ramp. Anglers should expect to catch rainbow trout from 10-16 inches, and brown trout and Kokanee salmon from 10-14 inches. Anglers report good action for rainbow trout and brown trout, fair action for Kokanee using power bait and small jigs tipped with meal worms. For updated fishing reports and ice conditions, contact the DOW Monte Vista office (719-587-6900).
After a successful day on the ice, stop at the San Luis Valley Brewery and enjoy the finest in craft brews and great food in an inviting atmosphere.
Of course your ice fishing adventure does not end there. Have a good night’s sleep and before you leave the San Luis Valley, stop on the east end of the valley to try a little fishing at Smith Reservoir. This is a State Wildlife Area near Fort Garland. The water level in this reservoir is variable, and may be low during the winter. It is accessible by vehicle to the boat ramp. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow trout. Anglers report exceptional action for rainbow trout 15-20 inches using jigs tipped with meal worms or power bait. Anglers should be cautious of ice conditions, especially on the east end of lake.
Snowshoeing & Cross Country Skining
Ready to shake off those winter cobwebs? Head to the San Luis Valley for some fantastic snowshoeing and cross country skiing! Unbelievable scenic views, amazing snow, and precious solitude await you. After a great night’s stay in one of our lodging facilities , and a rib-sticking breakfast, head west through South Fork on Hwy 160. Just outside of this quaint town at 11.4 miles is Big Meadow Reservoir Road.
Big Meadows Ski Trail is located in the Rio Grande National Forest, in the eastern foothills of the San Juan Mountains. The trail starts off on fairly even grade, crosses a bridge and then maintains a relatively easy ascent to Big Meadows Reservoir and then loops through Big Meadows Campground. The trail is appropriate enough for all levels of skiers. It is easy enough for beginners with some nice flat areas, and some variable terrain. The length of the entire trail system is about 4.3 miles round trip.
After a long day playing in the snow, enjoy a satisfying meal at one of our many restaurants. From amazing Italian food, to Asian, to American and Mexican, there are enough choices to please the whole family!
The next morning, grab your equipment and head southwest of Monte Vista on Hwy 285 about 2.3 miles. At the Rock Creek Road (see US Forest Service Sign) turn right and follow the road up into the mountains for about 10 miles. Watch up on your left for a small plowed area with an opening in the fence.
The Rock Creek Ski Trail is located in the Rio Grande National Forest, in the eastern foothills of the San Juan Mountains. The trail starts off on a fairly even grade and then drops through the trees to an open meadow on the side of the hill. There are several loops that link from here. The views to the east from the meadow are quite a reward for your efforts, with the whole San Luis Valley at your feet, and the Great Sand Dunes and Mt. Blanca in the distance! The trail is appropriate for all levels of skiers. The length of the entire trail system is about 5.6 miles.
Both of the above mentioned trails are groomed by the San Juan Nordic Club. Here is a more extensive list of trails (ungroomed) in the Rio Grande National Forest
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