Summer Information For Pagosa Springs / South Fork In Colorado






May 16, 08

Pagosa Springs / South Fork
Colorado

Paradise for All Seasons

Pagosa Springs, located in a valley in southwestern Colorado, provides breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. It is said the town's name came from the Ute Indian word "Pagosah," which is thought to mean healing waters. Pagosa Springs boasts more sun-drenched days than the state of Florida and presents itself as a "paradise for all seasons."

Located at the junction of the famous Rio Grande River and it's south fork, the town of South Fork is a bustling center for tourism and recreation that was intitially founded as a community to service lumbering and mining. Located at the southwestern end of the San Luis valley and surrounded by national forest, South Fork is a community that lives for outdoor recreation and thrives on the people who make the outdoors their home.

Recreation

Hikers will find that trails are plentiful, with a few even leading to some of Colorado's highest, most picturesque waterfalls. Explore trails up Wolf Creek Pass and through the San Juan National Forest. Hike for an hour, a day or camp overnight. The variety is endless and trails range in difficulty to suit most everyone's pace.

Mountain bikers also will find the area to have a wide selection of trails suited to their needs, as will those wishing to explore the region on horseback.

Fishing can be found in any one of the area's numerous lakes and rivers, and the San Juan River winds right through the center of town. Trout, bass and salmon can all be discovered in the region.

Kayaking and white-water rafting on the San Juan and Piedra rivers provide another way to enjoy these pristine waterways. Water-skiing is available at Navajo Lake, about 30 minutes south.

Golfers also will enjoy this paradise of panoramic views. The spectacular landscape of the continental divide provides a backdrop to the many golf courses in the area.

Culture and History

Culture abounds here as well. Events throughout the summer offer Pagosa Springs' visitors plenty of entertainment. The Four Corners Folk Festival, Archuleta County Fair and Taste of Pagosa, and the Red Ryder Rodeo are just a few of the fantastic event shappening here. And, the Chimney Rock Archaeological Area, showing Anasazi Indian ruins, is only 17 miles west of Pagosa Springs.

After a long day of activities try soaking in the hot mineral springs. The waters are famous for their healing characteristics and can provide soothing relief. The hot springs also provide geothermal heating for the town.

Mammoth Mountain