SPLENDIFEROUS!  That is one of the best words used to describe scenic Colorado.  To see Colorado, you have to plan on driving through these majestic areas; Colorado by RV or toad whenever possible.  One divine area is the San Juan Skyway.  Rv’ers not familiar with this area should call ahead to see how road conditions are and where the areas have vehicle limitations.

Remember:  Seasonal changes in   weather

and road conditions can  occur in mountain areas.

Pagosa Springs is a great jumping off place.  With more than 30 RV parks scattered throughout the area, there is sure to be a camp for your liking.  Named for its famous bubbling water, historically the Utes were just some of the early citizens to enjoy these springs and mountainous areas.  Archeologists have found evidence of early inhabitants such as the Pueblo Indians especially around the area of Chimney Rock.  For centuries this area had been a drawing place for many people besides the ancient Pueblos.  Apaches, Najavos and Utes skirmished over ownership of the Pagosa Springs area.  Early explorers would report seeing well worn trails leading down to the springs converging from all directions.  Besides the “healing waters” of the Pagosa Springs area, folklore tells legends of lost gold, a five million dollar treasure still waiting to be found in the area of Treasure Mountain.   

Mountain Men (Pegleg Smith, Jacob Fowler, Ewing Young, William Wolfskill) just to name a few, took to this region.  “Southern Trappers” as they are called in history books found an abundance of game and furred animals, which enabled them to prosper in the San Juans and Rockies.  Later on as years rolled by the soldiers would come to this area and establish Ft. Lewis which played a major role in Pagosa Springs being developed into a town.  Lumber mills would play a large factor in the economy of this settlement.  Bathhouses, mercantiles, churches, schools, and the (click map above for large view) opening of Wolf Creek Pass led the way to even greater economic destinies for the “healing area.”

Contact the Chamber of Commerce or call 1-800-252-2204 to acquire a brochure of the Pagosa Springs accommodations.  In case you want to get out of the RV for a night, this brochure will also include Bed/Breakfasts, Condos/Houses, and area motels.  From Pagosa Springs you’ll want to travel the San Juan Skyway, a 236 mile scenic drive winding through the mountains and valleys with an opportunity to visit eight unique Colorado towns.  From Pagosa Springs take Highway 160 west to Durango.  Here you’ll find the thrill of riding an authentic 1800’s steam train with the D&SNG Railroad, visit historic Main street for galleries, restaurants, and shopping.  In winter “ski Durango” at the Durango Mountain Resort. 

Continuing west, experience Mancos, here you’ll unwind by taking a horseback or stagecoach ride (dress very casual – jeans do well).  Echo Basin Dude Ranch, Mesa Verde,     or the Mancos State Park is waiting for you.  Be sure to bring along your fishing gear.  Perhaps you’d prefer cross country skiing.  It is all here!  Farther west, discover Cortez and explore the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.  Native American art and crafts are available for viewing.  This area is a picture of Western heritage.  Heading north on Highway 145 explore Dolores a site of the Anasazi culture and heritage site.  Fishing and boating is available at McPhee Lake.  Telluride, farther north will bring the golfer out of you.  Telluride’s Mountain Resort has first class golfing and of course skiing.  At Ouray, the Swiss Alps of the Colorado Rockies, you’ll discover more hot springs, pristine hiking trails, and quaint villages. 

Turning south Silverton comes into view, where even in June a sprinkling of rain can fall as ice droplets.  The D&SNG Railroad destines here.  Jeep tours, interpretive guides, ghost towns, mine tours, and outside performances are unique to this old west town.  Back to Pagosa Springs you’ll enjoy ballooning, golfing, and of course, after a long drive – the bubbling hot springs.

With so much to do in this area, you’ll need to acquire a planning guide and map out your day’s adventures.  Plan to take at least a week to visit these areas.  No doubt that won’t be time enough to see and experience all these byways.  And just think- this is only one region of Colorado!  One could live here a lifetime and never see it all!  For more information on the sites and sounds of Colorado, visit these websites:  www.coloradodirectory.com , www.wolfcreekski.com , www.golfpagosa.com , www.skiandbowrack.com , www.parelli.com , www.pagosahotsprings.com , www.chimneyrockco.org , www.harmonartmuseum.com, www.thespaatpagosasprings.com .

See my other “Seniors” article with more information on Colorado in our Archives.

Happy Traveling!!!

(Photos are courtesy of Pagosa Springs, Telluride, and Durango Chambers of Commerce)