While summer is in full swing, snow is theperfect time to start planning your fall getaway to the Colorado Rockies. Our yellow aspens, blue skies, green pines, and white fluffy clouds will make you want to stay.

When I first moved to Creede, winter was well underway. The aspen trees had long dropped their yellow leaves. The white limbs were there to tease meabout the visual I had missed out on. You see, growing up in the DC area, fall is full of vivid reds-I wanted to see some yellow! Upon spotting my first yellow leaf in mid-August, I was giddy; I’m going to see the aspens change, and all in my backyard! When the Aspen leaves were at their peak, I was mesmerized by their intense yellow colors. My roommate and I loaded up in his truck, dubbed “The Candy Striper”, and into the mountains of Creede, we ventured, accompanied by Lionel Richie’s Greatest Hits (a fifty-cent thrift store find and the only music “The Candy Striper” would play). The journey began with a drive up Miner’s Creek. It had just snowed so there were puddles left behind from where the snow had quickly melted. The reflection of the trees in the puddles motivated me to snap some photos. Upward we went and cut over to Rat Creek. Everywhere I looked there was yellow, green, blue, and white (from the clouds, not the snow). This fall will have been ten years since that epic adventure, and I often look back on those photos fondly. The memory of that day is one that will stay with me for eternity.

This September, make sure to enjoy the colors for yourself. If you prefer to drive on paved roads, the Silver Thread Scenic Byway is the way to go. The 117-mile drive from South Fork to Gunnison will provide you with countless photos opportunities, especially as you’re crossing the Continental Divide. You’ll be able to capture the intense colors, and may even spot some wildlife; moose, big horned sheep, and deer are often spotted along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway.

Mark your calendars for September 15 for the annualCruisin’ the Canyon Car Show. Each year, Main Street Creede is lined with classic cars. From Main Street head north to the Underground Community Center and enjoy the hard work of the Creede Quilter’s Guild. These ladies work so hard they can only showcase their work every other year. Be sure to bring your wallet, there will be a quilt that you must have.

Creede is the place to enjoy the fall in Colorful Colorado. Bring your camera and come to it see for yourself. The memories will last a lifetime.

Come and stay for the week! This year South Fork is putting together a ColorFest weekend September 22-23. Details are coming soon and will be updated on the South Fork Visitor’s Center web page. Contact us today to book your week-long stay and Fall in Love with our Colors.

Our vacation rentals in South Fork, are a beautiful 20-minute drivealong one of Colorado's twenty-six scenic byways from Creede. Whether you stay in Creede or South Fork you'll be close to all the September action and amidst beautiful fall colors. Contact us TODAY to book your September getaway and Fall In Love with our Colors.   

Upcoming Events

August 3-5; Rock & Mineral Show; Creede, CO

August 3-5; Rhythms on the Rio, South Fork, CO

August 25-26; Headwaters Music Festival, Creede, CO

August 31-September 3, Labor Day Celebration, Creede, CO

September 14-16; Crusin' The Canyon Car Show, Creede, CO

Quasquicentennial: the anniversary of 125 years. This year, Creede, Colorado will be celebrating their quasquicentennial on June 13, 2017. In honor of this mammoth milestone, the town will be celebrating all week long, from June 10^th through June 19^th. To kick of the festivities on June 10^th there will be the inaugural Creede Donkey Dash, a ten mile burro race through the historic Creede Mining District. Creede is the place to be on Saturday, June 10^th.

Photo Courtesy of the Creede Historical Society Catalog #0444-CRO-3c2

Since Father’s Day is right around the corner, why not treat the special man to a float trip on the Rio Grande with Wolf Creek Anglers? The Rio Grande is one of eleven Gold Medal Fishery locations in Colorado, this means BIG trout. Mid-June is the best time of year to catch the salmon fly hatch. Wolf Creek Anglers is THE catch and release guide service for the South Fork Area.

Fly Fishing the Rio Grande with Wolf Creek Anglers, South Fork, Colorado

Another treat for dad would be a round of golf at the Rio Grande Club in South Fork. While he’s off fishing and playing golf, why not treat yourself to an afternoon at Creede Repertory Theatre? You could catch a matinee either day. Creede is a friendly and safe town, that if the kiddos didn’t want to sit through a musical, they would be safe roaming the shops of Main Street and they could check-in during the fifteen minute intermission. 

Creede Repetory TheatreCreede Repetory Theatre, Creede, Coloardo

Have you decided how you and the family are going to celebrate America’s Birthday in July? Between festivities in South Fork and Creede, there will be much for the family to take part in and enjoy our great nation’s 241^st birthday. Start your vacation with a visit to the South Fork Rodeo: Rock the Rio Grande. Did you know that the very first rodeo occurred here in Colorado? South Fork will also have a morning parade, fish fry, bbq, and fireworks in celebration of our nation’s independence; all on July 3^rd. The following day, head north along the Silverthread Scenic Byway to Creede and celebrate our country’s birthday with them. Creede hosts the State’s Mining Competition in the Basham Park Arena. Other events during the day include the parade, a large vendor area, and fireworks, which in years past have been fired off the cliff overlooking town.

Forth of July Fireworks, Creede, CO

Our townhomes are perfect for large groups. All of our vacation rentals feature full kitchens, soaking tubs, and three bathrooms. When you stay with us you’ll experience all the luxury of a hotel with the comforts of home. Put our Home Concierge Services to use and let us assist you in planning your family’s vacation to southwestern Colorado. Contact us today to book your reservation for your summer vacation in the Colorado Rockies.

Upcoming Events

May 26^th-May 28^th Taste of Creede, National Small Print Show

June 10^th Creede Donkey Dash

June 13^th Creede’s 125^th Birthday

June 17^th Run Off, Run Off

June 18^th Father’s Day

June 17^th-June 18^th Mineral County Fair

July 1^st Rockin the Rio Grande

July 3^rd Independence Day Celebrations in South Fork and Creede

July 4^th Days of ’92, evening fireworks

Celebrate Our Nation's Independence With Us in Southwestern Colorado!

South Fork starts the celebration off with their town parade on July 3rd. From the banks of the Rio Grande River, you may watch your duck race it's way to the finish in the "Lucky Duck River Run". After the duck race, head on over to Rickle's Area for the 5th Annual Rock The Rio Grande Rodeo.The day concludes with fireworks.

July 3rd & 4th, head on up to Creede for the Day's of '92. This two-day event begins with a plane flying down the canyon signaling the start of the parade and is filled with vendors, a beer garden, and the state mining competition. Head on over to the Mineral County Fairgrounds for a special performance of the Creede Chute Out. This year's fireworks display, on July 4th, will be the largest display fired over Creede. You do not want to miss the Day's of '92.

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Father’s Day is JUST around the corner.

The South Fork and Creede areas of southwestern Colorado boast numerous activities for the special man in your life to enjoy.

The Rio Grande River through South Fork and Creede is one of a few rivers in the state with a Gold Medal Waters designation. In a nutshell, this means lots of trout. The Rio (as we love to call it) is sought after by seasoned and novice anglers for her abundance of trout. We have friends in both towns that would love to take you fishing. Contact Wolf Creek Anglers in South Fork or Rio Grande Anglers in Creede for all of your fishing needs. 

Perhaps golf is more up your alley. The Rio Grande Club and Resort, located along the Rio Grande River has eighteen holes with majestic views of the San Juan Mountains. Bonus, playing golf at 7500’ above sea level means you’ll ball will travel farther (bragging rights when you return home). Call the clubhouse today to book your tee time(s).

Riding ATV’s into the wilderness in gaining popularity in the area. Follow the 4x4 road up East Willow (USFS Road 502) to the Phoenix Falls trailhead. ATV’s are permitted most of the trail to the falls (and now in designated routes in the City of Creede). Another favorite 4x4 road in the area is to the Wheeler Geologic Area. These are both places that few visit and definitely worth checking out.

Contact us today to book your stay.

We’re happy to help you work out the logistics of your vacation and make additional suggestions for activities while you are on vacation.

Don't wait; book your stay now for your fantastic and relaxing weekend getaway!

Visit our website and chose the vacation rental that’s perfect for you.

• Two-Bedroom Townhome $225.00/Night*
• Three-Bedroom Townhome $275.00/Night*
• Four-Bedroom Townhome $295.00/Night*
• Five-Bedroom Townhome $350.00/Night*

*Taxes and Cleaning Fee Additional. Not Valid With Any Other Offer. Golf Membership Homes Excluded. Please Use Promo Code Father.

Reserve Your Rental Today!

Our Luxurious Rental Properties Offer:

• Garages for Storage
• Entertainment-Style Floor Plans
• Gourmet Kitchens with Granite Countertops
• Master Suites
• Stone Fireplaces
• Exquisite Views of the Rocky Mountains
• Perfect for Families and Groups

Book your stay with Rio Grande Vacation Rentals today.

Give us a call at 877-873-5776 or visit us online at www.riograndevacationrentals.com.

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Now, Through May 31, 2016

• Two-Bedroom Townhome: $179.00/Night*
• Three-Bedroom Townhome: $189.00/Night*
• Four-Bedroom Townhome: $229.00/Night*
• Five-Bedroom Townhome: $329.00/Night*

*Taxes and Cleaning Fee Additional. Not Valid With Other Offers. Golf Membership Townhomes Excluded. Use Promo Code: MayWeb

 Our townhomes are family-friendly and perfect for large groups.

Contact Us Today To Book Your May Stay!

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Mountain Lifestyle

You’ve booked your Spring Break vacation, your skis are tuned, and you’re counting down the days till you are back in Colorado. You LOVE Colorado, you wish you could live in Colorado because of the abundance of outdoor fun; you thrive in the mountains. That mountain lifestyle is calling your name. We have good news for you; one of our vacation rentals in the River Club neighborhood, Texas Pride is for sale. That mountain lifestyle you dream about is calling your name. Will you answer?

May 13^th is Mother’s Day. How will you be honoring the special lady? Why not treat her to a weekend retreat in the mountains? She and some friends could use a little R n R (and perhaps a spa day at Ooh La Spa). After all, doesn’t Mom deserve it for everything she does?

It’s not too early to start planning for your Memorial Day weekend. Creede will be buzzing with activity from the opening of the National Small Print Show, hosted by the Creede Arts Council, to the Annual Taste of Creede, the brainchild of legendary artist, Steve Quiller. Not only will you be able to glance at artists working on their masterpiece's on Main Street you’ll also be able to watch the Silver Chef Cook-Off. Each restaurant in town sends a representative to take part in an Iron-Chef type of competition. You’ll be glad you participated in the Taste of Creede.

Last year Creede celebrated its 125^th birthday with a pack burro race through the historic mining district. The event was such a hit they will be hosting the Creede Donkey Dash again in early June. You do not want to miss this. The kiddos will have the opportunity to race baby burros on Main Street too! Be sure to check the Creede Visitor’s Center webpage for more details as they become available.

Our vacation rentals are perfect for families and groups. When you stay with us you’ll experience all the luxury of a hotel with the comforts of home, all the while enjoying that mountain lifestyle you love. Put our Home Concierge Services to use and let us assist you in planning your next vacation to southwestern Colorado. South Fork’s proximity to Wolf Creek Ski Area makes South Fork the ideal town to rest your head after a day on the slopes for that last minute fix. Additionally, South Fork is surrounded by Rio Grande National Forest for those wanting to explore the backcountry. A short drive up the Silverthread Scenic Byway is the town of Creede, which makes for a fun day trip. Contact us today to book your reservation for your mountain lifestyle vacation in the Colorado Rockies.

Upcoming Events

March 9-11; Monte Vista Crane Festival; Monte Vista, Colorado

March 31; South Fork Kite Festival, South Fork, Colorado

May 25; Nation Small Print Show Opens, Creede, Colorado

May 25-27; Taste of Creede, Creede, Colorado

June 9; Creede Donkey Dash, Creede Colorado

June 10; Gravity Derby, Creede, Colorado

June 16; Kid’s Fishing Clinic, South Fork, Colorado

June17-23; Salmon Fly Hatch Days, South Fork, Colorado

“There’s snow. And then there’s Colorado Snow.” Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow; which means six more weeks of winter!

The Old Farmer’s Almanac is calling for a snowy President’s Day Weekend!! The only place we can think of to celebrate is on the slopes of Wolf Creek, home of “The Most Snow In Colorado”.

Our luxury townhomes are located in South Fork, Colorado, a mere 20 miles east of Wolf Creek. With open floor plans and various sleeping configurations, our vacation rentals are perfect for families, large groups, or couples seeking a romantic getaway. All of our rentals feature entertainment-style kitchens, three bathrooms, and soaking tubs (after a hard day on the slopes, your legs will thank you). Contact us today to book your President’s Day Weekend Ski Vacation.

South Fork is the ideal location to stay when skiing at Wolf Creek. Not only is South Fork the closest town to the ski area, the town is family-friendly and extremely safe. With dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and a grocery store intown, all of your meals will be easily covered. For those seeking the ultimate vacation, let our Home Concierge Service do the grocery shopping for you. We will even help coordinate catering for you. Imagine coming “home” after an epic day on the slopes to a hot meal waiting for you by one of the many talentedchefs in the area. Now THAT’S a vacation!

If a vacation in Creedeis more your style, be sure to visit for Cabin Fever Daze. With three full days ofevents, you’ll need a vacation from your vacation. Visit the Creede Community Foundation’s webpage for more details about the event. Our cabin rentals in Creede are close to the action and ideal for families and groups. Peruse the various cabin rentals in Creede to enjoy with your friends and families.

As you know, the San Luis Valley is home to countless unique features and events. March is no exception, with the Monte Vista Crane Festival. Each spring the San Luis Valley becomes inundated with various migratory birds, such as sandhill cranes, geese, and ducks. With the majestic Sangre de Cristo mountain range for a backdrop, bird lovers from all regions flock to Monte Vista for this unique event. Be sure to bring your camera because you’re going to want to document this marvelous event.

You may find links to other Events in the San Luis Valley, such as discount days at Wolf Creek, on our Home Page.
With Spring Break on the horizon, be sure to consider a week skiing at Wolf Creek in the Colorado Rockies. Contact US today to book your stay and reserve your discounted lift tickets to Wolf Creek for Spring Break 2018. See ya on the slopes.

Upcoming Events
February 13; Fat Tuesday
February 14; Valentine’s Day
February 16-18; Cabin Fever Daze; Creede, Colorado
March 9-11; Monte Vista Crane Festival; Monte Vista, Colorado

Spring Specials

April 1-May 15, 2019

Catch the last days at Wolf Creek! If your crew is more into scenic drives, you will be happy with a drive along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway and a visit to North Clear Creek Falls. Contact Us today to book your Late Winter Vacation Getaway and reconnect with your family.

(Photo Courtesy of Wolf Creek Ski Area)

• Two-bedroom Rental: $189/Night*
• Three-bedroom Rental: $199/Night*
• Four-bedroom Rental: $229/Night*
• Five-bedroom Rental: $329/Night*

*Taxes and Cleaning Fees Additional

~~Dates Subject to Availability~~ 

For most folks, Labor Day Weekend signals the end of summer. This is not the case here in southwest Colorado. With an event every weekend between South Fork and Creede, there are plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the fall colors and have some fun (psst, the fishing is still prime this time of the year).

(photo courtesy b4 studio) 

Let’s start with Labor Day. Creede hosts a myriad of activities sure to entertain all. The Balloon Festival kicks off the weekend of fun with balloon glows, tailgate parties, and balloon launches. Creede Mining Heritage, Inc. hosts this event and all proceeds benefit the restoration of the Sunnyside Chapel (psst, when the renovation is complete, this will be an ideal location for a mountain wedding). Saturday morning is for those that want to test their endurance by participating in the Creede Mountain Run. With three distances to choose from (2, 12, or 22 miles) there is a distance for that runner in your group. The Creede Mountain Run provides a unique opportunity to take in the views of the city along with the historical mining structures which put Creede on the map. The fun continues on Saturday with the Annual Salsa Fiesta; a Creede Labor Day tradition. Local businesses compete for the best salsa, and YOU get to be the judge. Tickets are limited, so contact the Creede Visitor’s Center today to purchase your tickets. Additionally, Creede Repertory Theatre has multiple live theatrical productions throughout the day (and weekend for that matter). Sunday Funday kicks off with Gravity Derby down Main Street, Creede. This is fun to watch and participate in. The rules are simple: your entry must be gravity powered, steer, and brake. The visitor’s center will assist you with the registration process for those wanting to participate. The fun concludes Monday with the ATV Rodeo at the Creede/Mineral County Events Complex. The ATV Rodeo is another unique event in Creede to either watch or participate in. With multiple dining options in Creede, from BBQ to tacos to pizza to fine dining on the Rio Grande River, Creede is THUH place to be Labor Day weekend. Contact US today and let us help you get your Labor Day vacation underway.

(photo courtesy Kathleen Murphy)

Do you enjoy looking at classic cars? If the answer is yes, then you need to be in Creede for the Crusin the Canyon Fall Color Truck, Motorcycle &Car Show. The antique vehicles arrive Friday and will be lined up on Main Street Saturday morning and afternoon with an award ceremony Saturday at three. Following the award ceremony, the “hot rods” ride up the Silverthread Scenic Byway to Freeman’s General Store. Freeman’s is not only home to one of the best burgers you’ll ever have, their porch is a great place to take in the “parade” and snap some photos.

(photo courtesy Wolf Creek Anglers)

Are you getting antsy to wet your line one last time before the snow flies? The trouts of the gold medal waters of the Rio Grande are getting antsy too. Let our friends at Wolf Creek Anglers in South Fork take you on a guided float or wade trip before the season comes to an end. We also have stay and play packages available.

(photo courtesy Kathleen Murphy)

The South Fork Colorfest is the perfect opportunity to take in and enjoy the fall colors of southwest Colorado. A drive along the Silverthread Scenic Byway will provide you with numerous photo opportunities. Be sure to download the free app before you go so you don’t miss out on points of interest along the way. Keep your eyes peeled; you never know when you’ll see a moose, deer, elk, or big horned sheep.

Contact us today to book your stay for one of the fun weekends in September. Our luxury accommodations are perfect for large groups and for those looking for a romantic getaway. Let our Home Concierge Services assist you in planning the perfect fall color getaway.

Upcoming Events

September 1-4, Labor Day Weekend Celebration, Creede

September 15-17, Crusin’ the Canyon Car Show, Creede

September 17-20, South Fork Colorfest, South Fork

November 23-24, Chocolate Festival, Creede

November. The beginning of the family holiday season reminds us of what we are thankful for. This time of the year we are thankful for snow, chocolate, crafts, and so much more.

The Wolf Creek Ski Area is scheduled to open November 3. This is dependent on the weather; however, there is snow up in them ther hills. Wolf Creek spent the summer building a new lift, Lynx Lift, a conveyor lift for beginner skiers. This new lift will provide more options for the newest skier in the family. The mountain offers a fairly equal distribution of terrain for all levels, beginner to expert, which means there are runs for everyone in the family regardless of their ability. Remember too, that our Home Concierge services offer discounted lift tickets to Wolf Creek Ski Area.

Are you a fan of chocolate? Is someone in your family a bona fide chocoholic? Why not head to Creede for Thanksgiving and check out the town’s annual Chocolate Festival? Participants meander the streets of Creede while visiting the various shops and sampling their homemade chocolate submission. After fulfilling your sweet tooth’s chocolate craving be sure to turn in your ballet and vote for your favorite chocolate. Additionally, Creede offers many dining options from burgers to tacos to BBQ if you need something a little more than chocolate. Chocolate Festival is fun for the entire family and good time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. Contact the Creede/Mineral County Visitor’s Center for more information and to pre-purchase your 2017 Chocolate Festival tickets.

Speaking of holiday shopping, why not check out Winter Fest in South Fork. This year’s event will be December 8^th and 9^th at the Rio Grande Club and Resort. Local crafters will have various products available for sale, which will make excellent gifts. Another exciting part of the day will be a guest appearance from that special man in the red suit. That’s right; Santa will be in South Fork December 8^th and 9^th for WinterFest. This event will sure to be something that the entire family will enjoy.

Have you wanted to learn how to snowmobile? Our friends at Mountain Skillz in South Fork offer lessons so that you may safely ride in the backcountry of the Rio Grande National Forest. Between South Fork and Creede, there are hundreds of miles of trails for you to explore. Mountain Skillz also rents machines for those of you that may fly in or do not want to trailer your machine. Matt and his crew will be sure to take care of you and make sure you and your group have everything you need for a safe and good time in the backcountry.

Our townhomes are perfect for families and groups. All of our vacation rentals feature full kitchens, soaking tubs, and three bathrooms. When you stay with us you’ll experience all the luxury of a hotel with the comforts of home. Put our Home Concierge Services to use and let us assist you in planning your next vacation to southwestern Colorado. South Fork’s proximity to Wolf Creek Ski Area makes South Fork the ideal town to rest your head after a day on the slopes. Additionally, South Fork is surrounded by Rio Grande National Forest for those wanting to explore the backcountry. A short drive up the Silverthread Scenic Byway is the town of Creede, which makes for a fun day trip. Contact us today to book your reservation for your winter vacation in the Colorado Rockies.

Upcoming Events

November 3; Wolf Creek Ski Area Opens

November 24 & 25; Chocolate Festival; Creede, Colorado

December 8 & 9; WinterFest; South Fork, Colorado

January 12-14; Golden Puck Pond Hockey Tournament; Creede Colorado

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Skiing & Snowboarding

Wolf Creek Ski Area is a high alpine resort, elevation 10,300 feet at the base and 11,900 feet at the summit. The resort is known for its massive natural snowpack, "the most snow in Colorado" (nearly 500 inches); the majestic views; and uncrowded runs. For a truly unique experience, Wolf Creek Ski Area is unbeatable.

Wolf Creek Ski Area - Phone: 970.264.5639

Snowmobiling

The South Fork Area boasts over 255 miles of groomed and marked snowmobile trails courtesy of our two snowmobile clubs, plus plenty of open meadows and steep hill climbs. The terrain begins at 8,500 feet and climbs to nearly 12,000 feet. Guide services and tours are available for families and adventurers alike.

Mountain Skillz - South Fork, CO - Phone: 719.849.3146
Twin Pine Motorsports - South Fork, CO - Phone: 719.873.0166
Third Generation Outfitters - Pagosa Springs, CO - Phone: 970.219.7523

Silverthread Scenic Byway

The Silverthread Scenic Byway is one of twenty-six scenic byways within the state. This 117-mile road (Highway 149) begins in South Fork and passes through Creede and Lake City before reaching Blue Mesa Reservoir outside of Gunnison. Vist the official web page of the byway to download the interactive free app and watch a short video that will provide you with a glimpse of what you and your family may see along your scenic drive.

South Fork Visitor's Center - Phone: 719.873.5512
Creede Visitor's Center - Phone: 719.658.2374
Lake City Visitor's Center - Phone: 970.944.2527
Gunnison Visitor's Center - Phone: 877.213.5357

Underground Mining Museum

One of Creede's most popular attractions, the Underground Mining Museum comprises a series of rooms and tunnels blasted into the cliff face of Willow Creek Canyon. Visitors receive a first-hand taste of the miners' subterranean experience. Self-guided CD tours are available anytime; guided tours are by appointment in the summer.

Underground Mining Museum - Phone: 719.658.0811

Golf / Dining

The Rio Grande Club is now under new ownership and management. RGVR is excited about this transition of ownership to the Freeman Group. Stay tuned for important developments and projects already underway.

The Rio Grande Club is nationally acclaimed and named among Golf Digest Magazine's "Top 10 best, new upscale public golf course facilities in America for 2003." Located at the base of the breathtaking Wolf Creek Pass in South Fork, Colorado, the Rio Grande Club is a resort/private club featuring a majestic, 18-hole championship golf course.

The Rio Grande Club - South Fork, CO - Phone: 719.873.1995

Great Sand Dunes National Park &
Sand Dunes Swimming Pool (Hot Springs)

Nestled in southern Colorado, America's tallest sand dunes rise over 750 feet against the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The wind-shaped dunes glow beneath the backdrop of the majestic Colorado landscape. Enjoy wildlife watching, hiking, and even swimming in Medano Creek, which flows at the base of the dunes during spring and early summer.

Enjoy a naturally hot artesian swimming pool kept between 98-100 degrees. The water is amazingly clear with no odors and no added chlorine. Sand Dunes Swimming Pool offers family fun, relaxation, and rejuvenation with striking views of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Great Sand Dunes National Park - Phone: 719. 378.6300
Sand Dunes Recreation, LLC - Phone: 719.378.2807

Alligator Farm

A unique experience for the whole family! View a variety of turtles, tortoises, gators, snakes, and lizards for a hands-on learning opportunity. View gator wrestling and meet alligators featured in many movies and tv commercials!

Colorado Gators - Phone: 719.378.2612

Rio Grande County Museum

Rio Grande County Museum is part of the San Luis Valley Museum Association. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the cultural and natural history of the area from the Indians and Hispanic settlers, the mountain men fur trappers and traders, to the later settlers who came in search of land, freedom, gold, and silver. The Rio Grande County Museum is a stimulating learning experience for visitors of all ages.

Rio Grande County Museum - Phone: 719.657.2847

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde offers an unparalleled opportunity to see and experience a unique cultural and physical landscape. The archeological sites found in Mesa Verde are some of the most notable and best preserved in the United States. The park offers visitors a spectacular look into the lives of the ancestral Pueblo people.

Mesa Verde National Park - Phone: 970.529.4465

Black Canyon of the Gunnison State Park

No other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths offered by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Activities include backpacking, experienced climbing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison - Phone: 970.641.2337

Hovenweep National Monument

Hovenweep National Monument protects six prehistoric, Puebloan-era villages spread over a twenty-mile expanse of mesa tops and canyons along the Utah-Colorado border. Hovenweep is noted for its solitude and undeveloped natural character.

Hovenweep National Monument - Phone: 970.562.4282

Camping

There are ten National Forest campgrounds and numerous privately owned RV parks/campgrounds in the area. Some campgrounds are accepting reservations online; check the links below for more information.

Rio Grande National Forest - Phone: 719.852.5941
Camp Colorado - Visit Website for information on privately owned RV Parks and campgrounds in the area and sign up to receive your complimentary activity guide.

Hiking & Mountain Biking

The mountains surrounding South Fork, Colorado, offer twelve recommended trails with a variety of terrain and distances, or you can take a leisurely stroll down the thousands of miles of forest service roads. A complete mile-post guidebook of the entire Silver Thread Scenic Byway, which is 75 miles long, and its points of interest is available at the South Fork Visitor's Center for $1.00.

South Fork Visitor's Center - Phone: 800.571.0811
Creede Visitor's Center - Phone: 719.658.2374

Hunting

Some of the best game hunting in the state is found in the San Luis Valley. Big game includes elk, deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain lion, and bear. Guides and outfitters are available to give you a real Rocky Mountain experience!

Creede Repertory Theatre

Named one of the "Ten great places to see the lights way off Broadway" by USA Today, the Creede Repertory Theatre is a must see! Enjoy a night of great theatre and fun with shows throughout the summer and fall season.

Creede Repertory Theatre - Phone: 719.658.2540

Rafting

Rafting is a fun, family-oriented activity, and the Rio Grande River provides a scenic rafting experience. Raft rentals and guided tours are available locally!

Mountain Man Rafting - Located in South Fork off Hwy 160 - Phone: 719.873.1977

Four-Wheeling (Jeep's, ATV's, Dirtbikes)

Surrounded by 2 million acres of National Forest, service roads and trails offer endless miles to wander down. Whether you're an adventurer or just want to take a scenic drive, the Rio Grande National Forest has something to offer everyone. Rentals and guided tours are available.

Popular 4-Wheeling Roads/Information - South Fork Visitor's Center: 800.571.0881 | Del Norte Forest Service: 719.657.3321
Mountain Skillz - South Fork, CO - Phone: 719.849.3146
Twin Pine Motorsports - South Fork, CO - Phone: 719.873.0166
Creede Visitor's Center - Creede, CO - Phone: 719.659.2374
Big Country Fun - Creede, CO - Phone:719.423.0777

Fishing

Over 30 miles of the Rio Grande River is designated as "Gold Medal" fishing. Thirteen lakes and a multitude of creeks and streams are available within twenty miles of South Fork. There are many angling guides available to teach you the tips and tricks of Rocky Mountain fishing.

Wolf Creek Angler - South Fork, CO - Phone: 844.746.3474

 Local Chamber of Commerce offices can aid greatly in providing information about the area and activities. Below is a list of the offices in the San Luis Valley region: 

• Creede Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.327.2102 | Visit Website

• Lake City Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.569.1874 | Visit Website

• Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.252.2204 | Visit Website

• Del Norte Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 888.616.4638 | Visit Website

• Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.562.7085 | Visit Website

• Alamosa Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.258.7597 | Visit Website

• South Fork Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.571.0881 | Visit Website

• The Colorado Vacation Directory | Visit Website

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