Within a couple of weeks, all of the fall colors of the year will have faded away and winter chills will be nipping at your nose! Take advantage of the last of the fall season and warmer temperatures while you can by taking in one or all of the activities we have recommended below! 

Spot Wildlife 

Late fall is the perfect time to catch the wildlife as they make their way down from the high mountains. You are more likely to spot elk, deer, and maybe even a moose or bear if you are really lucky! The cranes are also making their way back through the San Luis Valley! Though not in the impressive numbers they boast in the spring, there are still plenty to see! Make your way into the higher mountains for your chance to see big horn sheep and other furry creatures that call the forest home. Ensure to be courteous to the wildlife and do not attempt to touch or feed any animal you may come across. Watch from a safe distance and be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment! Here are our top picks to spot wildlife:

1. Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge 
2. Baca National Wildlife Refuge 
3. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge

Sample as much Green Chile as you can! 

Here in Alamosa and the surrounding San Luis Valley, you will not have any issues finding this culinary delight any time of the year, however, fall is the season of FRESH green chile making it even more delicious than normal! You are also in luck, as there is no shortage of locations for you to taste it! Each green chile is prepared just a little differently from place to place, making the flavor unique and different at any eatery you choose! Here are 5 places for you to try:

1. Lindo Jalisco  (Lunch/Dinner)
2. Nino’s Del Sol (Lunch/Dinner)
3. Crazy Corner Cafe (Breakfast/Brunch)
4. Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant  (Lunch/Dinner)
5. Mammoth Spud Cafe  (Lunch)

Sample Local Brews 

There is SO much local beer to love in Alamosa and the surrounding area! We are lucky enough to have three farm-to-tap breweries in Alamosa alone. Sample rich, bold, unique beers and take in some of the seasonal brews that many of them offer! Here is a roundup:

1. Spare Keg Brewerks (Alamosa)
2. The Colorado Farm Brewery (Alamosa)
3. San Luis Valley Brewing Company (Alamosa)
4. Three Barrel Brewing Company (Del Norte) 

Enjoy one last camping trip 

The camping season will be gone before you know it! Take advantage of one last weekend completely immersed in nature, peace, and quiet that camping provides! 

*It is important that you pack and store all food properly, pack plenty of fresh water, put out any flames or hot embers in fire rings, trash the trash, pack in what you pack out, and be sure to check the weather prior to your trip as the weather can change in the blink of an eye this time of year! Always know before you go and plan and pack for all situations. Here are a few nearby campgrounds for you to choose from:

1. Piñon Flats Campground at Great Sand Dunes National Park
2. Alamosa Campground 
3. Zapata Falls Campground

Take one more hike…(Or Two!) 

The cooling air makes the trails more enjoyable, and the lower temperatures provide the perfect motivation to reach the finish line! Remember to prepare for the ever-changing weather by bringing layers, water, sunscreen, and snacks for your adventure.

1. Hiking the Great Sand Dunes for Stargazing 
   1. August through October are the premiere months to view the stars in this International Dark Sky Park! Grab a warm drink and a blanket; you’ll want to lay back and fully take in the dazzling night sky.
2. Zapata Falls 
   1. This is one of your last chances to view the falls with flowing water before they freeze solid in late November. If you time your visit just right, you may still catch the final hints of yellow on the surrounding foliage.
3. Oxbow Trails
   1. This is a leisurely walk rather than a rigorous hike, making it perfect for the whole family (and the dog!). The winding Rio Grande River is lined with cottonwoods that are currently bursting with color (but not for long) offering incredible views and high chances of spotting wildlife.

Don’t wait for the snow to fall! The final weeks of golden light and fresh green chile are now. Get outside, warm up with the flavors of Alamosa, and experience this beautiful landscape before winter arrives. Time is ticking—plan your fall getaway today!