| | Pagosa is the Ute Indian word for healing waters, and this town still creates the feeling of restoration. Far from any big cities, this towns natural hot springs, recently spruced up into pretty riverside pools, will refresh and rejuvenate. Two city parks straddle the San Juan River, complete with a riverwalk and picnic area.Mountain biking on 16-mile Red Ryder Loop, fishing at the nearby Williams Creek Reservoir or Navajo Lake, river floating the San Juan or Piedra Rivers, golfing at Fairfield Pagosa, hiking into the Weminuche Wilderness Area, jeeping to the Summitville Historic Mining District, even horseback riding are all at your fingertips here.Those interested in ancient ruins should consider a trip to Chimney Rock Archaeological Area, where Forest Service guides can lead you to about a dozen partially intact pueblo structures inhabited by the Anasazi more than a 1,000 years ago; watch for majestic peregrine falcons that inhabits the area. Youre guaranteed to see wildlife, from grizzlies to coyotes, at the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, five miles south of town. The San Juan Historical Society Museum and Fred Harman (creator of Red Ryder and Little Beaver comics) Art Museum round out Pagosas cultural centers. |  | | | |
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