Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Pagosa Springs Area Chamber of Commerce
( 970-264-2360;
www.visitpagosasprings.com
;
402 San Juan St;
9am-5pm Mon-Fri)
A large visitor center across the bridge from US Hwy 160.
USFS Pagosa Ranger Station
(
970-264-2268; 180 Pagosa St;
8am-4:30pm Mon-Fri)
TOP OF CHAPTER
South Fork
POP 377 / ELEV 8300FT
The appeal of visiting South Fork is hardly evident in the low-slung stretch of buildings
along US 160, 31 miles west of Monte Vista. But its position at the confluence of the
South Fork and Rio Grande Rivers makes it an excellent base from which to fish the Gold
Medal waters of the Rio Grande.
In ski season, South Fork is a more affordable lodging alternative than Pagosa Springs
for skiers at Wolf Creek. Exceptional backcountry hiking in the Weminuche Wilderness of
the Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado's largest pristine area, is readily accessible from
trailheads near South Fork. An abundance of nearby campgrounds also attracts vacation-
ers who want to enjoy a forested mountain setting.
At South Fork, US 160 turns south from the Rio Grande toward Wolf Creek Pass 18
miles away, and Hwy 149 continues upstream 21 miles to Creede before crossing the
Continental Divide to Lake City.
Sleeping
Ute Bluff Lodge
MOTEL
$
( 800-473-0595, 719-873-5595;
www.uteblufflodge.com
; 27680 US Hwy 160; d from $55, cabins $75-185;
)
This impeccably clean hotel is the best option in town. Run by a South Carolina trans-
plant named Debbie, the rooms have new carpet, wood paneling and a great location on
the border of USFS land where there are hiking trails. There are also a couple of moder-
ately priced cabins which are a good option for families.
Blue Creek Lodge
( 719-658-2479;
http://bluecreeklodge.net
;
11682 Hwy 149; d $54, cabins $80-125, RV sites $27)
This lodge, 7
miles up the road, is a faux-rustic B&B, restaurant and beauty salon. It's housed in a
LODGE, CABINS
$
