“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks”

John Muir

It’s unlikely that Muir could imagine the high tech world we live in with more and more people moving into metro areas like the Front Range. Even with its mountain proximity, time spent walking with nature gets short-changed. So short-changed, in fact, that physicians are prescribing time in nature for a number of health conditions from depression to obesity. The Japanese therapeutic practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is both a practice and an art. “We are hard-wired to affiliate with the natural world and just as our health improves when we are in it, so our health suffers when we are divorced from it,” says American Biologist E.O. Wilson.

If you’d like to see why Audubon ranks Colorado among the top ten states for big bird lists in spite of having no coastline, then head to the San Luis Valley. Its variety of riparian habitats covering thousands of acres are home to, or stop-overs for, an incredibly diverse population. Of the more than 500 species of birds in Colorado, over 300 of them can be found in the valley. But it’s the hopping, dancing and rattling calls of the sandhill cranes numbering up to 20,000 that make the San Luis Valley especially impressive for bird enthusiasts.  

When was the last time you looked up into the night sky and saw a vast blanket of twinkling stars? It’s an awe-inspiring sight, one you’re hard-pressed to find living in the big city with its 24/7 lights. And when was the last time you heard no traffic, no mass of humanity rushing through their days...

Home to stunning night skies and 360-degree jaw-dropping views, Alamosa offers the perfect setting for a romantic escape. From walks along the river to starlit strolls on the tallest dunes in North America, Alamosa has everything you need for your next long weekend getaway.

Grab your binoculars and head out for a day of bird watching.  But first, don't forget to pack a picnic lunch.  There are great lunch options around Alamosa; both City Market and Safeway feature delicatessens, and plenty of other lunchtime favorites!

Did you know that the Navajo consider Blanca Peak to be one of four sacred mountains that comprise the borders of their native lands? Or that many southwestern tribes consider the San Luis Valley to be the birthplace of their people, a spiritual place they've termed "Sipapu?"

Day One

Head for the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve!
The best part of this giant sand box is the beach! Every year, snow runoff creates a warm, clear creek across the sand. It’s better than the beach because it’s so clean and runs from the base of 14,000 foot peaks. Adventurous kids may even talk Mom and Dad into climbing to the top of Star Dune, the largest of the Dunes. Eat lunch at the Great Sand Dunes Oasis at the entrance to the park where homemade pies are a speciality.

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.

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!

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!

Great Sand Dunes National Park is open year round with the scenery and landscapes being equally as breathtaking in winter as in 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.