Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a United States National Park located in the easternmost parts of Alamosa County and Saguache County, Colorado. The park contains approximately 85,000 acres. The park contains the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising about 750 feet from the floor of the San Luis Valley on the western base of the Sangre de Cristo Range, covering about 19,000 acres. The dunes were formed from sand and soil deposits of the Rio Grande and its tributaries, flowing through the San Luis Valley. Over the ages, westerly winds picked up sand particles from the river flood plain. As the wind lost power before crossing the Sangre de Cristo Range, the sand was deposited on the east edge of the valley. This process continues, and the dunes are slowly growing. The wind changes the shape of the dunes daily. http://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm

Colorado Gators is a family oriented, educational facility that focuses on full use of natural and recycled resources.  Our goal is to maintain an integrated ecosystem while providing educational opportunities and viable farm products.The History of Colorado Gators  Erwin and Lynne Young moved from Post, Texas to Alamosa, Colorado in September, 1974 with their four children, Mark, Mike, Sherri, and Jay.  Erwin learned of the geothermal water resources available in the Valley and wanted to grow Tilapia, an African perch that requires warm water and is very good to eat.In 1977 they purchased the 80 acre farm that is now Colorado Gators Reptile Park.  It wasn't until 1987 that they purchased 100 baby alligators to dispose of dead fish and the remains of filleted fish.Those baby gators grew quickly in the warm geothermal water (87° F) and the locals wanted to see them, so we opened to the public in 1990.  Soon we were in the spotlight of many media programs and articles.  Individuals with overgrown alligators and other reptiles such as large pythons, tortoises, iguanas, and more started dropping them off with us.We have become a sanctuary for unwanted exotic pets and we care for them as best we can.  We display them for the public to understand the dangers in owning these pets and we take them to schools for educational programs.

The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad excursion train rides take you through breathtaking mountain valleys and passes through charming and historic western towns from the heart of the San Luis Valley.  See Colorado's unspoiled territory as it was centuries ago.  Relive the golden age of railroads and discover a Colorado few get to see.Excursion trains offer a great seat any day of the week.  Pick the class of service and prepare to discover a ride full of train history, mining tales, wildlife sightings, and geology.  Come see why USA Today named the RGSRR a Top Ten Ride. For a truly memorable experience buy a ticket aboard the Rails and Ales Brewfest or enjoy a concert like no other atop La Veta Pass at the Fir Amphitheatre. . Regular season runs Memorial Day Weekend through the end of October.

The Sand Dunes Swimming Pool staff strives to give our guests a relaxing and therapeutic swimming experience. We focus on providing a family-friendly atmosphere that is open year-round!We have a large pool that sits right around 98 degrees year round and a 25 person hot tub that we keep at 107 degrees.  We offer a kids' water slide, volleyball, basketball, and more all right here!Sand Dunes Recreation also offers our on-site restaurant, Mile Deep Grille, with a variety of options for every taste.

Built in 1880, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a proud remnant of the spirit that won the west. It's path through steep passes and deep gorges is the stuff of adventure novels--taking passengers on the ride of lifetime.C&TS offers daily round-trip train excursions by Steam Engine. All train excursions are narrated by passionate volunteers who describe our unique history, scenery and machinery!

Antonito, Colorado - Chama, New Mexico