| Alamosa is the closest major town to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, a series wind-piled dunes formed from eroded particles in the Rio Grande Valley. These geological phenomena, set against the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, are the tallest dunes in the country (maxing out at about 700 feet). Hiking, camping, even "sand skiing" can be enjoyed at this giant playground. And an 18-hole golf course is just five miles south of the dunes.Closer to town are a couple of wildlife centers that make for interesting visits. Self-guide your way through the Alamosa-Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge Complex Visitor Center, a wetlands area that protects a rich habitat of valley birds like greater sandhill cranes, black-crowned night herons, snowy egrets, and golden eagles. And just when you think you've seen it all, Alamosa invents a Rocky Mountain original: Colorado Gators, the worlds highest alligator colony. Watch about 120 gators in their geothermal lagoon, picnic, tour the fish tanks, and even buy gator meat. |
