HOTTEST OF HOT SPRINGS, BLUEST OF BLUE BIRDS, RADDEST OF RAD LOCATIONS. - DO I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION YET?
Pagosa Springs is labeled The Most Beautiful Place in Colorado for a reason. No, it's not the town giving themselves this nickname, it just happens to be true.
But don't take my word for it, you be the judge!
From the deepest hot springs in the world (no big deal), amazing San Juan Mountains and the Wolf Creek Ski Area, Pagosa is an outdoorsman's paradise. This little town that once, not that long ago, only had 2 stop lights has blossomed into a pretty busy adventure destination.
Where My Heart Is
Pagosa is a place that I hold near and dear to my heart. My family has owned land in Pagosa since the 70's. Our 9 acres backs up to the National Forest. If you're looking for amazing views. There's plenty here. I've got an 180 degree view of the San Juan Mountains. Aim I spoiled you ask? Yes.
Back in the day, Pagosa used to have 2 stop lights in the entire town. Now, with a Walmart and significant growth in population and popularity, traffic (which was once unheard of) is now something that happens only during the busy seasons. To avoid crowds, try skipping Spring Break, 4th of July and Christmas/New Years. Trust me. You will have such a better experience if you do. This mountain town has everything you need to have a trip full of adventure, beauty and even a little danger if you so choose.
Let's Start With The Important Stuff: FOOD
After a long day at Wolf Creek or hiking, stop into Kips for the BEST tacos, dare I say in Colorado? Their menu is short and sweet, but believe me that's a good thing. My go-to option is the #5 Esteban Special. Warning: If it says *Spicy, they mean it! Only down side, nothing is free. Want cheese? That's extra. Want sour cream or avocado, also extra. This really isn't a deal breaker for me because you don't need to add on extra shit for no reason, it's excellent as is. The next place to visit if you're in the mood for spicy is Chavolo's Mexican Restaurant in Uptown Pagosa. Their Cadillac Margarita is a must...seriously... that with their chips and guac is the best happy hour spot in town.
Perhaps your looking for something with a little more of a bar scene? Check out Motel SOCO. Their bar has amazing cocktails that you just can't get anywhere else in town. Date night calls for the Alley House Grille. This is probably Pagosa's most lavish restaurant. The entire town of Pagosa is dressed Casual for all events and occasions. If you're not in suit and tie, that's because no one else is either. My crowd can be found at Riff Raff Brewing. Their Nacho Bidness is the bomb! Add chicken and it's a meal.
Rafting
If you're ready to get wet, check out Pagosa Outside for all your rafting and river needs. They have an amazing staff, if Maddie or James are there, say hi for me. Whitewater tubing is my personal favorite and I recommend going to Pagosa Outside to keep things super easy. They have a bus that drops you off on the east side of town and a pick up location a few miles down. The float time is roughly 45 minutes, so you can make a couple of rounds before your rental time is up. 3 Hour Tubing is $15, so this is a great option if you have a group or family. I recommend going in June. If you wait too long in summer, the water level will be so low that you'll spend a lot of time walking instead of floating.
If you're wanting to soak up some of those magical minerals, you've got two options. The most well-known location is, naturally, The Springs Resort & Spa. Fun Fact: I used to work there in the Pool House and Spa. Both facilities are very nice. The owner's have since changed when I worked there in 2013 and it appears to have gotten even nicer since the change. If you want a less expensive option, just a hop and a skip away is the Overlook Hot Springs Spa. This is small, quiet spot that ironically gets overlooked a lot to the giant Springs Resort across the street.
Juicy gossip about the Springs Resort and Spa...
Quick history, there are two brothers Don and William "Bill" Whittington. They were successful race car drivers and drove in the Indianapolis 500 five times. In 1987, Don Whittington pleaded guilty to tax evasion and was sentenced to 18 months in prison. In a related case, his brother Bill pleaded guilty to smuggling cannabis and sentenced to 15 years in prison. However, he was released early in 1990.
Fast forward to 2013, A DEA informant said Don Whittington had laundered his proceeds through the Springs Resort and Spa, according to a 35-page DEA affidavit. At the time, Bill was the one representing the hot springs. Long story short, Bill's daughters became owners of the resort as their dad and uncle were investigated. In 2018, Bill pleaded guilty for tax evasion (sound familiar?) and sentenced to 18 months in prison and one year of probation.
My two cents. I heard from long time employees that the hotel would be "booked" even though they only had a few guests. Do I think they did it? Perhaps. Either way, just some small-town gossip for the most part. Find the article here.
Wolf Creek Ski Area
I love Wolf Creek. There I said it. Yes, it's true. I have skied all over Colorado. From the time I was five years old, I've been trying to keep up with my mom and dad. By the time I was in High School, they couldn't keep up with me as I flew down the mountain with no fear speed. Now that I'm a little older, the fearlessness isn't quite all there, but I'm still f*cking fast. I grew up skiing Wolf Creek and worked in the rental department for 4 years and a bartender for my final year before I moved to Boulder.
What I love most about Wolf Creek is the size. It's a small mountain. However, it has everything you need. The Raven chair (furthest to the right when looking at the mountain) can get you to the top in about 2 minutes. The runs are quick, but if you like hard and fast, go for it. If you're more advanced head over to the Treasure lift which you then have to cut HARD right (after getting off the lift) to find your way over to Alberta. Now, once you're over in Alberta territory, please know that this is not for beginners. You'll find the Horse Shoe Bowl which is a bit of a hike, but great powder and low traffic.
Now that I mentioned it, low traffic is the best part about the ski area. Wolf Creek is mainly comprised of locals when it's not busy season. This means, on average, there's about 100-300 people on the whole hill. What does that translate to, YOU HAVE THE MOUNTAIN TO YOURSELF! Yeah, it's true. I've had some of my best day of skiing there.
Hiking and Camping
For the best camping spots, I've got you covered. Wake up to an amazing view of Williams Creek Reservoir at Teal Campground, north of Pagosa. This is going to have a lot of open space, so bring shade if you want to get out of the sun.
Details: These are by far the best lakeside campgrounds in the area. There are tons of nearby trails and plenty of breathtaking views. There are 16 sites for tents and RVs up to 35 feet. There are no hookups. Picnic tables, fire rings, and grills are provided. Leashed pets are permitted. This is a great place to fish, sail, canoe or kayak. Rent a few paddleboards from Pagosa Outside and take them here. The lake is usually very calm and (for the most part) empty.
Reservations, fees: $22 per night. Cash or check only. Open early May-late September.
Directions: From U.S. Highway 160 in Pagosa Springs, take Piedra Road/County Road 600/Forest Route 631 north for 22 miles. At the fork, stay right on Forest Route 640. The campground is on the right in 1.6 miles.
Contact: San Juan National Forest, Pagosa District, 970-264-2268, www.fs.usde.gov/sanjuan
Ready for an adventure? Hikers can drive to the Williams Creek Trail within a few minutes from the campground.
Here's the need to know about Williams Creek Trail:
Trailhead: GPS N37 32.48' /W107 11.87'
Distance: 6.0 miles out and back
Approximate hiking time: 2.5 to 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog Policy: Dogs must be under control. *If your dog bolts at wildlife, keep them on a leash. There is a lot of wildlife back there and it's a terrible place to lose a pet.
While on this hike, remember to take water and snacks. Many times the elevation can make people feel sick or disoriented. Remain hydrated the entire time. Also, wear your sunscreen. There are going to be areas with and without shade. The views are spectacular, so come prepared with a camera.
Happy Travels,
Gabby
About the writer:
Gabby is the owner of Lit Destinations and resides in Loveland, CO. As an avid hiker, skier and overall adventure seeker, Gabby finds plenty to do in this amazing state. Apart from being a graphic designer and business coach, Gabby grew up riding horses and dirt bikes.
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