Explore Our ValleySan Luis Valley, the largest alpine valley in the world, is situated between the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges. The sun shines here an average of 320 days a year, and:
Nestled in Southern Colorado, North America's tallest dunes rise over 750 feet high against the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This geological wonderland, containing over 30 square miles of massive dunes, became a national monument in 1932.
With the passage of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve Act, resources now also include alpine lakes and tundra, six peaks over 13,000 feet in elevation, ancient spruce and pine forests, large stands of aspen and cottonwood, grasslands and wetlands-all habitat for diverse wildlife and plant species.
1.86 million acres covering two mountain ranges.
As the glacier melted away, a large lake of meltwater built up behind the dike. Eventually, the water found a weak spot in the dike and began working and eroding its way through.
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat for numerous bird species, including Canadian geese and the near extinct whooping crane. Special tours and a self-guided driving loop are available.
San Luis Museum and Cultural Center: within the town of San Luis are some of the state's oldest structures, and on an overlooking hill are the Stations of the Cross, larger than life bronze sculptures by Huberto Maestas, and a chapel.
Fort Garland Museum: originally built in 1858, this adobe fort with its plaza format has been fully restored and has exhibits ranging from the recreated commandant's quarters to folk art and Hispanic cultural artifacts.
Creede Underground Mining Museum: tunneled in 1990-1992 by former miners of the Bulldog Mine that closed in 1985. Excavated in the shape of a "U" with a front and back entrance, the museum is a re-creation of an operating mine with all the equipment needed to recover silver bearing ore. Tours are truly educational with plenty of time to ask questions and ponder the hardships of hardrock mining.
San Luis Valley History Museum displays items from Native Americans, such as pottery and other artifacts, as well as remnants from an old-time school house and general store.
InformationFor additional information about these and other recreational opportunities in the San Luis Valley check out these websites: Alamosa, South Fork