Alamosa, San Luis, Monte Vista, Saguache, Crestone | COME TO LIFE Photographers will find Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge a worthy detour for shots of avocets, killdeer, herons and other wildlife. March’s Monte Vista Crane Festival celebrates the 20,000 migrating sandhill cranes. Day 3 Those who love rock climbing, biking, hiking and hunting should spend a day in Saguache, a small community north of Alamosa surrounded by the Sangres to the east and San Juans to the west. Check out the Saguache County Museum, a former jail that houses local lore and memorabilia. Not far is Penitente Canyon, whose 100-foot walls are beloved by climbers. As you hike the trails, try to spy one of Colorado’s rarest plants, the neoparrya, scaling the cliff walls. MILES/DENISE CHAMBERS. SIDETRIPS Fort Garland was originally established to protect early settlers in the valley. The structure now houses the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center, where visitors can view adobe buildings, Hispanic art and a re-creation of famed frontiersman Kit Carson’s quarters while he served as commander until 1867. In the 1870s, “... many Black soldiers eagerly responded to the government’s call for troops to help create permanent settlements in the West,” according to a History Colorado exhibit there. “Segregated black units were formed and over 10,000 Black soldiers moved west to help create a new way of life they hoped their people would be able to share.” The enclave of Del Norte is situated beside the Rio Grande, which has Gold Medal waters for anglers, particularly those who like float fishing. Other natural wonders include the Natural Arch and Elephant Rocks, where volcanic ash welded together to create rock formations more than 28 million years ago. Sargents is another little town that’s popular with outdoors lovers. South of Alamosa and Del Norte, Conejos reflects the culture of Old Mexico and boasts fantastic fly-fishing opportunities. Nestled into the base of the Sangres, tiny Crestone is a unique blend of spiritual New-Agers who frequent the Hindu temple and Zen center, along with artists, adventurers and birders. Conejos COLORADO . COM 167
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2023: Page 167
