Pagosa Vacations

The first buck we’ve seen in our yard this summer…an eight pointer.

One of the most popular sites near Pagosa Springs. Approximately, 20 miles east of town on Highway 160. A short, ten minute hike, and this awaits you…

TIPS: Parking can be limited, especially in the summer. And, the falls are likely to diminish in late July.

We took advantage of the long holiday weekend to explore some of the surrounding activities including a stop at the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park (sorry, no website to share). Believe it or not, this was our first visit. Our children had been previously, but not us.

I’d like to report that this is an activity you shouldn’t miss while in Pagosa. But, I can’t. And, while we went at the “wrong” time, early in the day (best to go during feeding), there just isn’t much to write home about. The animals were few and far between. The staff, while friendly, certainly didn’t engage. And, the overall appearance of the facility was a bit tired…and, well…average.
It might be worth catching during feeding time. Otherwise, save the $6 per adult ($4 for children over two) for something more memorable.

After quite a long hiatus, the Pinon Lake Fountain came back to life on Friday, May 18th at 5 PM.

This morning was absolutely perfect for Hot Air Ballooning, cool, clear and virtually no wind. I was lucky enough to be there to snap some shots of pilot, Mike Marchand, and the rest of the Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures crew giving some of our visitors a real highlight in their vacation. We had folks from all over, including Nebraska, California, Wyoming and New Mexico…what, no Texans?

More photos of today’s Balloon experience (I have some additional photos, close-ups, etc. e-mail me for those…no charge)
And, if you want the perfect view of Pagosa and the San Juan’s…book a flight with Mike. Learn more here…Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures. Or, call me…I’ll book you a seat.

Spring returns to the Rockies…just in time for Mother’s Day.

After about a two week hiatus, snow has returned to the San Juan Valley. We received about 2 inches overnight. Another 1-3 inches is expected the remainder of today. But, above freezing temps should keep the roads wet, not frozen. Mountain passes are different story…check road conditions before heading our way.

Taken at 7:30 AM MST

Want to know what living in Pagosa Springs is like? Lots of wildlife in your yard. This visitor has been with us for about a week now (at PV headquarters). This (animals venturing into populated areas) is typical this time of year with heavy snow pack at higher elevations. At least elk don’t dig through the trash like the bears. Living in Pagosa tip#1…don’t set your trash bin out the night before!

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and joyous New Year filled with luck, good health and prosperity.

And, yes, we had a bunch of snow yesterday…12 inches at our home. Fun, fun!