| The Rio Grande National Forest includes almost two million acres of publicly owned land on the eastern slopes of Continental Divide. Parts of two spectacular mountain ranges, the San Juan and the Sangre de Cristo, lie within the Rio Grande National Forest. Also included in the area are the headwaters of the third longest river in the United States - the Rio Grande del Norte, or "Great River of the North," as it was known by the early Spanish and Indian inhabitants of the Southwest.Between the ranges with their 14,000 foot summits is the fertile San Luis Valley, one of several high "parks" or basins ringed by mountains. The communities of Alamosa, Del Norte, Monte Vista, Saguache, Antonito, and others are reminders of the area's long and colorful heritage, while names such as Bonanza, Wagon Wheel Gap, Creede, and Summitville are a part of an equally colorful but more recent history.The Rio Grande National Forest supports a multitude of plants and animals, including six species of big game, numerous smaller animal species and over 200 species of birds.During the spring and summer, a multitude of wildflowers provide a profusion of color and beauty. The spectacular fall color is unsurpassed and peak color inside the Rio Grande National Forest usually occurs between the middle and end of September.Variety is the word describing the outdoor recreation opportunities of the Rio Grande National Forest. From the rugged and jagged peaks of the Sangre de Cristos to the forested table lands and glacial canyons of the San Juans, the outdoor enthusiast can choose an activity suited to the day or the season.High lakes and tumbling streams beckon the fisherman, while big game and other wildlife lure hunters and nature photographers. Hiking, backpacking, camping and cycling amid spectacular scenery await the adventurous visitor. A good network of forest highways and roads provides access to the auto traveler, with some 50 Forest Service recreation sites located in convenient spots. Tables, fireplaces, toilets, and other conveniences are usually provided. Be aware that some sites within the Rio Grande National Forest may require payment of a nominal use fee.Other recreation opportunities within the Rio Grande National Forest include horseback riding, skiing, snowmobiling, or a visit to the Wheeler Geologic Area. History buffs may enjoy a thrilling ride on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, a narrow gauge steam route from Antonito, Colorado to Chama, New Mexico. Evidence of early day mining camps is scattered throughout the forest, while Creede, Bonanza, Platoro, and Summitville are centers of continuing mining activity. The routes of early explorers such as Juan Bautista de Anza, Zebulon Pike and John C. Fremont can be traced with a little imagination and effort.There are four wilderness areas within the Rio Grande National Forest boundaries, all with an excellent network of hiking, backpacking and horseback riding trails. These include the Weminuche, South San Juan, Sangre De Cristo and La Garita Wilderness Areas. The Trail along the Continental Divide is equally challenging and exciting. |
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