Refreshingly Authentic Experiences in Pagosa Springs and Alamosa, Colorado

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Pagosa Springs is home to the world’s deepest hot springs. Water-based wellness awaits in these naturally flowing springs filled with minerals that are said to have healing properties. Enjoy relaxing dips in the springs at comfortable resorts, like The Spring Resort, which offers 24/7 access to hot springs as well as regularly scheduled wellness activities like Aqua Yoga. Cozy accommodations can also be found at the Healing Waters Resort and Spa and the Victorian-era themed Overlook Hot Springs Spa. These waters yield more than just rejuvenating soaks. Head to Riff Raff Brewing, a local brewery where “earth-powered beer” is made using geothermal heat from hot springs.

Just outside Pagosa Springs, San Juan National Forest covers over 700,000 hectares in southwestern Colorado. This vast outdoor paradise’s many nature trails range from beginner-friendly options like the Mesa Village Trail to more challenging treks like the Great House Trail, which leads guests to the Great House archaeological site and offers impressive views of the forest. For more insight into Puebloan history, visit the Chimney Rock National Monument from May to October. Interpretive tours depart from the visitor center and take you along the ancestral Puebloan pathways that wind through the valleys and mesas of San Juan National Forest. Find even more adventure outside the forest: Fish for trout at Williams Creek Reservoir, hike or mountain bike from downtown Pagosa Springs to the waterfalls of Treasure Falls and Silver Falls, and float down the San Juan River on a raft or tube.

Located just under two hours from Pagosa Springs, friendly and outdoorsy Alamosa beckons with even more splendid vistas to explore. Head to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve to slide down the tallest sand dunes in North America on a sand sled or sand board. Cruise the national park in style on a guided Jeep tour of Medano Pass Road. You might spot local critters such as bighorn sheep as you drive this rugged path that follows the scenic Medano Creek. When night falls, the skies above the park come alive with unpolluted views of the starry sky – some of the best in the world, as designated by Great Sand Dunes National Park’s status as an International Dark Sky Park. Other must-see natural wonders in the Alamosa area include the Rio Grande River, an ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding in the warmer months, and the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge, where you can observe majestic bald eagles, coyotes, deer and more from a safe distance.

Not outdoorsy? No problem: Downtown Alamosa offers a myriad of fun city pursuits like shopping, dining and sampling beverages at local breweries. Shop for antiques and local treasures at independent boutiques like Wild Roses and Hunt Avenue Boutique, which showcase curated collections of vintage homewares. Alamosa’s food and drink scene is not to be overlooked. Farm-to-table eateries offering fresh local produce and sustainable dining options are aplenty, and outdoor dining is a delight in the summertime. Cuisine options range from Tex-Mex and pub food to other international options. Cap off your day with a trip to some of Alamosa’s local breweries. Sip craft beer and indulge in conversation with inviting locals at community staples like San Luis Valley Brewing Company, Spare Keg Brewerks and Colorado Farm Brewery.

Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is the closest option for visiting the area and offers connecting flights from most major airports in the USA. From there, rent a car and drive about an hour to reach Pagosa Springs or about three hours to Alamosa.