Located in an area with a rich and varied past, the Museum houses a large collection of artifacts, photographs, books and documents that illustrate the chronicle of a life as it was lived "way back when".  It offers glimpses into the lives of prehistoric Indians, cowboys, Spanish colonists, miners trying to make their fortunes and homesteaders in search of the proverbial "Garden of Eden".
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*Photo Courtesy of www.wolfcreekski.com

Whether you are a skier or a boarder, you are in for a treat at one of Colorado’s oldest and finest ski resorts.  Friendly employees and plenty of light powder snow make Wolf Creek memorable and keep people coming back season after season.  Lift tickets are one of the most affordable in the state and if you are going to ski or ride for 3 or more consecutive days, discounts are available.

If down-hill skiing and snowboarding is not your cup of tea, Wolf Creek Ski Area also offers nearly 10 kilometers of cross country trails.  A 4 kilometer loop goes around the natural meadows and another 6 kilometer loop takes you down to Alberta Reservoir then back through the trees.  These tracks are groomed regularly.  If you are a snowshoer, please come and join in the fun.  Wolf Creek Ski Area provides this trail for
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Penitente Canyon, while quite secluded, has emerged as one of Colorado’s premier rock climbing areas. The area includes Penitente, Rock Garden, Sidewinder, and Witches Canyons with a high concentration of world class routes. The area is part of the 7,529 acre Penitente Canyon Special Recreation Management Area.

These unusual rock formations and hoodoos that attract so many rock climbers used to be home to the Brothers Penitente who used the area as a place of worship. An homage to their devotion is a painted image of the Virgin Mary high on a rock wall.

Campground is open year round and offers parking, rest rooms, visitor information and a picnic area.

The Valley offers hundreds of opportunities for those wanting a unique and calm ride through the wilderness as well as those who don’t mind getting banged up by the rocky roads.

Whether you opt for a maintained forest service road or a rough back woods trail, you are sure to find something that you will never forget. Take a mid-morning trip or choose to spend a full day enjoying the beautiful rugged high mountain terrain only viewed from the toughest 4x4s.

When you venture into the mountains, make sure to take plenty of food and water, extra clothes, a first aid kit, and spare tires. Remember that many trails are multi-use and may be shared by hikers, horse back riders or bikers.

This marvel of nature can not be missed! To get to the Arch, head north out of Monte Vista on Highway 285 for 18 miles to County Road G.

Turn left and go west to the “Y” just past the La Garita Store. Take the dirt road south and follow the signs to the Natural Arch. Make sure you bring your camera to snap photos of the massive arch and the surrounding volcanic remains.

*Photo Courtesy of
Delores Steele

This ghost town is located in the San Juan mountains. The town sits at about 11,800 feet.  Gold was first discovered here in 1870. It was in the early 1870’s after a miner showed a piece of float gold in a local bar that the stampede from Del Norte developed. By 1886 there were at least fourteen saloons operating in town. By 1893 the town was a ghost town. It did reopen for mining several times, 1907, 1930's, and in 1948 two mills were still in operation. A toxic spill, potassium cyanide, in the early 1990's ended the mining. Summitville has numerous buildings still standing and a lot of photos opportunities. All the elements for a great adventure. LEARN MORE >

The Upper Rio Grande is home to many trails for hiking and biking. No matter if you are a beginner, a recreational explorer or a well-seasoned enthusiast, the valley is sure to keep your interest.

There are multitudes of trails that offer fun and adventure for the whole family. Before you venture into the woods, it is suggested that if you plan to travel more than 30 minutes from your car that you carry a day pack. Include water, food, rain gear, and a sweater.