What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Pronghorn Loop
This trail is a favorite spot for hiking and trail running in the nearby town of Del Norte. It's suitable for biking, too. It winds through rock formations and across desert meadows, serving up spectacular sights of the Sangre de Cristo mountains all the while.
Length: 9 miles
Intensity: Intermediate
Zapata Falls
The heavily trafficked out-and-back trail at Zapata Falls, near Great Sand Dune National Park, rewards you with amazing views of the San Luis Valley and an encounter with a 30-foot waterfall.
Length: .9 miles
Intensity: Easy
Cross Creek Trail
This trail takes you past the largest tree in the Rio Grande National Forest and provides stunning views of Del Norte Peak.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Intermediate
Fishing & Boating
Anglers love fishing the Rio Grande. Trout is the catch of the day there, and you can hook trout varieties like rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat, and Rio Grande cutthroat. The waters can get shallow, so when it comes to boating, rafting and kayaking are the most common options. The water in this area moves at a leisurely pace and is excellent for floating while taking in the views.
Climbing
This area of Colorado features tons of places to climb, but one of the most popular is Penitente Canyon. The best months for climbing there are May and October. This canyon is known for its tough climbing challenges, but it has more accessible climbing courses that are bolted for safety.
Wildlife Viewing
The Rio Grand River SMRA supports a range of wildlife. Migrating sandhill cranes, avocets, bald eagles, and goldfinches pass through this area. It's also home to the prairie rattlesnake, American elk, black bear, Colorado chipmunk, and pine squirrels, among many other species. The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge is one option to pursue if you're looking for wildlife viewing.
Picnicking
The Rio Grande Farm Park is a fabulous place for a picnic. You can enjoy your meal on a rustic farm with a view of the Rio Grande. Alamosa Riparian Park is another popular picnic spot with stunning scenic views, but it doesn't have any on-site restrooms.