Spend a day in the San Luis Valley.
Where to stay and play and what to see and do when you get the chance to spend a day in this mystical region.
Orisons by Marguerite Humeau, 2023 (Hooper, CO | Jones Farms Organics).
Photograph via Art Basel.
Nestled in the heart of Colorado, the San Luis Valley is a hidden gem still waiting to be fully discovered. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, the enchanting region offers a perfect getaway for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
꩜ Getting here.
You can drive or you can fly, or if you’re really adventurous you can bike! When driving from the front range, we recommend taking 285; the expansive views are a great kick-off to a week of southern Colorado adventure. Flying? After landing at Denver International, you can hop a quick 30-minute flight to Alamosa Regional Airport via Denver Air Connection which makes two trips back and forth daily; rental cars are available with advance notice via the local car rental service, Quest.
꩜ Staying here.
We’ve created the perfect basecamp for your San Luis Valley adventuring right here at the Mellow Moon Lodge, but there are many locally owned places to stay that are worth checking out! Supporting independent hotels over big chains contributes to vibrant local economies, preserves unique cultural experiences, and fosters a more personalized and authentic travel experience. Read on for a few daily itineraries we put together to highlight some of our favorite local lodging options, including some of our favorite things to do, eat, drink, and explore while spending time in our mystical Valley.
Frontier Drive Inn.
It’s summertime, and you’re waking up in a luxury yurt at the Frontier Drive Inn before hopping in the car to head towards the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Stop into the landmark Hooper Junction to fill up the car and your belly at the Ruby Rose Bakery onsite (espresso and fresh baked donuts, anyone?), then by SpinDrift Sandboards for rentals on the way into the Park. …because riding down the tallest dunes in North America must be on your adventure bucket list, of course!
After hiking to the top of the dunes to bask in the stunning panoramic views, you can cool off at Medano Creek or hike around to explore the diverse ecosystems surrounding the dunes. Spend your afternoon at the nearby and otherworldly “Hooper Pools,” relaxing into the early evening in The Greenhouse surrounded by beautiful plants, soaking in the adults-only hot spring pools ranging from 98-111 degrees. Yes, and? You’re going to want to order the Ahi Tuna Salad from the Steel Box Bar. Yes, you’re landlocked and in the middle of nowhere and yes, you will thank us later.
As the sun sets, head back to the Frontier in time to settle in for one of their nightly movie showings. Snack on fresh popcorn and enjoy an al fresco viewing experience like no other!
Tiny Timbers Resort.
It’s a chilly winter day and you're waking up in a tiny house at Tiny Timbers Resort for a day of outdoor adventure and pampering. You’ll start with breakfast at the Coffee Bistro (the Burrito Bowl is the order, we tell ya!), taking your morning caffeine to-go so you can browse unique and rustic gifts for home and garden in the Gift Shop next door.
After your retail fix, you’ll get ready and head to the slopes at Wolf Creek Ski Area! Wolf creek is known for being family-owned and operated, contributing to it’s character and sense of community. The resort offers a family-friendly atmosphere, with ski and snowboard lessons available for all ages and abilities, making it ideal destination for families looking to enjoy winter activities together.
When you’ve tired yourself out at Wolf Creek, it’s time for an afternoon of pampering back at Tiny Timbers. Their full-service Day Spa just opened in 2023, and delivers the ultimate mountaintop experience. Whether you choose to enjoy a massage, facial, body treatment, a nail service, or a combination of highly effective and therapeutic services, you will no doubt leave feeling refreshed and renewed!
Mellow Moon Lodge.
It’s a sweet summertime morning in the SLV, and you’re enjoying a fresh pour-over from the comfort of your room at the Mellow Moon Lodge. Get your blood pumping to start the day with a quick hike up ‘D Mountain’ in town, which will earn you quite the view of Del Norte and the surrounding Valley. On the walk back to the Moon, pop into Simple Foods Market & Deli to snag made-to-order sandwiches and a few snacks for a day out on the Rio Grande River!
The main event today is a half-day float trip and fly fishing adventure with Jackalope Anglers! Imagine yourself standing knee-deep in the glistening waters, surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery and hooking a trout. Maybe sippin’ on a Peach Wheat, or two or three…
Post-float, we’re headed to Trade & Post: the local record store and gathering spot who just so happens to be hosting an open-mic night. The perfect cap to a day in the great outdoors? A casual evening of mingling with other travelers (and locals, too!) while enjoying live music and - if you’re lucky - enjoying a tinned lobster roll on fresh-baked Tumbleweed Bread. There’s nothin’ better!
LOGE Wolf Creek.
Today you’re waking up in South Fork at LOGE Wolf Creek, and the snow is falling. Before you embark on an epic snowmobile adventure, walk over to the Cafe onsite to enjoy a Breakfast Sando and a morning cup o’ joe. Maybe even a dip in the hot tub out front?
Once equipped with a snowmobile (rental option are available via several outfitters in the area), enthusiasts can head to the Rio Grande National Forest, which surrounds South Fork and offers an extensive network of groomed trails and pristine backcountry areas. The West Willow Creek Trail is a popular choice for riders of all levels, featuring scenic views and varying terrain. For those seeking a more challenging experience, the South Fork Snowmobile Trail provides an exciting mix of open meadows and forested paths.
Tired out from the day of fun? Sounds about right. Stay bundled up and chill out post-snowmobile adventure at the Crow Bar, enjoying a grass-fed burger at Rachel’s Keep On Keepin On just across the street from LOGE.
The Windsor Hotel.
Today you’re waing up to a lovely fall morning at the historic Windsor Hotel in Del Norte. Just a few doors down, Raisin’ Rye offers the perfect jump start to your day with fresh espresso and homemade breads and pastries. Use the morning to pop into local shops like the General (specific) Store, Dirty Bits Soapery, and Gently Loved Thrift to name just a few.
Next you’re off to see some reptiles. Yes, really! Visiting the Colorado Gators Reptile Park is a unconventional and thrilling experience that offers more than just a typical farm visit. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the San Juan Mountains, the farm provides an opportunity to encounter a diverse array of reptiles, including alligators (you can even hold the baby ones!), turtles, and snakes.
After getting your gator fix, you’ll drive on to the eclectic town of Crestone (yes, the one from the HBO series!) to enjoy a late lunch at Elephant Cloud Market before moseying about town to explore the array of galleries and shops. This tiny town packs a big, artsy punch and is well worth the trip! When you arrive back in Del Norte, a cocktail or mocktail at 1874 Distilling will hit the spot before enjoying a delicious meal at Bistro BARbara, named for the woman who saved the iconic building from demolition. Still up for another round? Carthers Roadhouse is the late night spot!
Ramble Camp.
You’re rising and shining at Ramble Camp today, after an early spring night spent sleeping under the stars. After you rise and shine, you’ll first take a hike to Zapata Falls. The highlight is reaching the hidden waterfall, which is tucked away in a narrow crevice. The falls are particularly stunning this time of year, when the melting snow from the nearby peaks feeds into the creek! You’ll probably find yourself wading through the creek to get a closer look at the falls, making for a refreshing and memorable experience.
Post-hike you’ll make a quick drive to check out a large earthwork installation in nearby Hooper, called ORISONS. The art installation is a self-guided experience, located on 160-acres that transforms an unfarmable plot of land (donated to the exhibition by Jones Farms Organics) into a place of reverence, honoring the San Luis Valley’s expansive history, existing ecosystem, and imaginable futures.
The main event today is still to come: dinner at The Frier’s Fork. This James Beard nominated restaurant is helmed by Chef-owner Denise Vigil, serving up an ever-evolving (and always delicious!) menu of fresh and hearty Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with a great wine and cocktail list. If you make an early seating for dinner, you can still catch an epic sunset back at Camp!
Creede Hotel.
Tonight you’re spending a cozy fall day in Creede, Colorado! The town describes itself best: “Have you ever been to a place that’s so special, you aren’t quite sure if you should tell people about it or not? That’s Creede. It’s a beautiful, quiet, retreat from modern America—a quaint, old mining town, far enough up in the mountains that it almost seems to have escaped the past century.”
You’ll choose-your-own-adventure today! Walk down historic main street to pop into the locally-owned shops and galleries (San Juan Sports & the Sunnyside Bar is a must!), visit the Underground Mining Museum, hike in the Weminuche Wilderness, or take a scenic drive along the Bachelor Loop. You can’t go wrong.
Dinner usually comes with a side of live music at The Creede Hotel Restaurant. Grab a bite early, leaving time for an evening of entertainment at the renowned Creede Repertory Theatre: one of the oldest and most respected repertory theaters in the country, known for its commitment to providing high-quality, diverse theatrical productions, including classic plays, contemporary dramas, and new works.
Outside the General (Specific) Store, in Del Norte | Photo Credit: Garrett Milanovich for Conde Nast
No matter where you choose to stay, spending time in the San Luis Valley offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, relaxation and wonder. Whether you're captivated by the towering sand dunes, historic landmarks, or the diverse wildlife, wonders await you in this remarkable part of Colorado.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and let the San Luis Valley weave its magic around you…
With love for small business and small town Colorado,
- the team from the Mellow Moon Lodge
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Palo santo narwhal blog fam single-origin coffee, drinking vinegar deep v before they sold out chambray man bun vape meggings truffaut. Plaid raclette skateboard hella cloud bread portland selvage banjo deep v. Palo santo ramps iceland succulents cornhole, tbh brunch tousled raclette lo-fi sartorial ugh cold-pressed. 8-bit swag microdosing tousled. Pork belly kombucha copper mug vinyl snackwave. Unicorn gluten-free chambray pabst, tilde shaman etsy kombucha taiyaki cornhole.
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Palo santo narwhal blog fam single-origin coffee, drinking vinegar deep v before they sold out chambray man bun vape meggings truffaut. Plaid raclette skateboard hella cloud bread portland selvage banjo deep v. Palo santo ramps iceland succulents cornhole, tbh brunch tousled raclette lo-fi sartorial ugh cold-pressed. 8-bit swag microdosing tousled. Pork belly kombucha copper mug vinyl snackwave. Unicorn gluten-free chambray pabst, tilde shaman etsy kombucha taiyaki cornhole.
