Cradled between the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountains at the headwaters of the Rio Grande, lies the San Luis Valley. The diverse geologic and geographic features of this vast basin including lush river bottoms, an inland ocean of sand, and craggy summits reaching elevations over 14,000 feet have enticed and enthralled people since the times of Ice Age hunters.

The State’s oldest town is here, and Colorado’s first parish church still holds Mass every Sunday. Colorado’s earliest adjudicated water rights flow within the San Luis Valley and the State’s oldest business, R&R Grocery, is still open. Colorado’s first territorial governor, William Gilpin, and lieutenant governor, Lafayette Head, had ties to the San Luis Valley. The Valley gave Colorado its first national wildlife area and it’s first national monument. Here the State also built its first facility to honor and care for war veterans.

While much has changed within the Valley, traditional values and cultural practices still endure. Well-preserved architecture and historic downtowns evoke the past. Whatever your interests, exploring the San Luis Valley’s colorful history and vast beauty can make its legacy part of your Colorado heritage experience.

Coming Soon

Coming Soon

Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic & Historic Byway

Trace a route to 22 heritage sites in the upper Rio Grande region along "Los Caminos Antiguos" ("The Ancient Roads") and let the history of this northern outpost of sixteenth-century Spanish territorial expansion unfold before you. "Los Caminos Antiguos" Scenic Byway allows visitors to explore the rich culture and traditions of some of Colorado's oldest communities. Discover the panoramic views of the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges; the high, fertile San Luis Valley; the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve; the Rio Grande National Forest; and state parks and federal wildlife areas.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Explore the tallest dunes in North America! The most recognized and most photographed natural feature of the San Luis Valley, the massive dunes rise unexpectedly from the floor of the San Luis Valley and nestle up against the Sangre de Cristo mountains. The dunes, alpine tundra, forests, grasslands, and wetlands are all protected elements of the Great Sand Dunes natural system. The periodic surges of Medano Creek, flowing at the base of the dunes, creates a favorite spring playground of water and sand. The dunes themselves provide endless hours of family friendly climbing, sliding, and sand-skiing or boarding.