With over 300 days of sunshine, this former “boom” region is a natural paradise that enjoys all four seasons!
Located along the southwestern border of the state, Archuleta County, Colorado continues to experience a rapid growth in population and resources.
The town of Pagosa Springs serves as the county seat while other towns and communities include Arboles, Chimney Rock, and Chromo. Access to Archuleta County is handled via highways US 64 and US 160 with area bus service provided by Mountain Express.
Pagosa is home to several events and festivals including Rapids & Rhythms River Fest, Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival, Archuleta County Fair, Renaissance & Pirate Festival, Turkey Track Trail Marathon, Mountain Chile Cha Cha, Four Corners Bike Fest, and the Devil Mountain Ultra 50-mile run. Some enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride across the region, while other tourists have a spooky good time visiting the ghost town of Juanita.
The area is also home to the 3 million acre San Juan National Forest, which is adjacent to Colorado’s largest wilderness area, the Weminuche Wilderness. Preserved natural beauty is plentiful in several parks, forests, wilderness areas, and trails that include Rio Grande National Forest, Chimney Rock Archeological Site, and the South San Juan Wilderness. There are also areas of national historic significance with portions of the Continental Divide Scenic Trail and Old Spanish National Historic Trail in the county.
One of the largest attractions in the area is Navajo State Park. The park features a 15,000 acre reservoir formed in the San Juan River Valley. The landscape is characterized by flat-topped mesas and gently rolling hills with occasional steep-sided canyons. This area attracts numerous species of birds and other animals for observation and viewing enjoyment. Another popular destination for residents and visitors is the Wolf Creek ski area. Wolf Creek provides year-round outing experiences with both winter and summer activities.
FUN FACT: Archuleta County seems to be everyone’s second home. Over 60% of the county’s homeowners have primary dwellings elsewhere
The Archuleta County area remains a beacon for the beauty of the Old West with all the scenic panoramas of mountains, streams and forests. Make this region your new home or home away from home!