Monte Vista ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Monte Vista, Colorado.
1. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
BIRD WATCHING PARADISE
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge features artificially created wetlands that serve as a habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and raptors. Visitors can observe various species including Mallards, Canada Geese, American Avocets, Egrets, and Herons throughout the year. The refuge is especially popular during March and October when Sandhill Cranes migrate through the area.
2. Rio Grande National Forest
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
Rio Grande National Forest offers vast expanses of US Department of Agriculture forest land near Monte Vista. The forest provides numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout its diverse ecosystems. Visitors can experience stunning mountain landscapes and peaceful wilderness areas throughout all seasons.
3. The Monte Vista Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Monte Vista Historical Society houses a specialty museum that preserves the rich history of the area. The museum is filled with meticulously cataloged history, photos, newspaper articles, and other historical artifacts that tell the story of Monte Vista and surrounding regions. Helpful staff members are available to guide visitors through the exhibits and share insights about local history.
4. Ski Hi Stampede
HISTORIC RODEO EVENT
Ski Hi Stampede is Colorado's oldest pro rodeo, drawing crowds to Monte Vista for thrilling rodeo competitions and western entertainment. The event features professional rodeo events, live music performances, parades, and family-friendly activities celebrating the region's western heritage. Typically held in late July, this annual tradition has been bringing communities together for generations to celebrate Colorado's western culture.
5. Star Drive In
NOSTALGIC OUTDOOR CINEMA
The Star Drive In offers a nostalgic movie-watching experience under the stars in Monte Vista. This classic outdoor cinema allows visitors to enjoy current films from the comfort of their vehicles, creating a unique entertainment option for families and couples alike. The drive-in typically operates seasonally during warmer months, providing a charming throwback to America's golden age of cinema.
6. Monte Vista Golf Club
SCENIC VALLEY GOLFING
Monte Vista Golf Club provides golfers with a picturesque course set against the backdrop of the San Luis Valley. The course offers well-maintained fairways and greens suitable for players of various skill levels, with mountain views enhancing the experience. Visitors can enjoy affordable rounds of golf in a relaxed atmosphere that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
7. Annual Crane Festival
CELEBRATED BIRD MIGRATION
The Annual Crane Festival in Monte Vista celebrates the migration of Sandhill Cranes through the San Luis Valley each March. The festival includes guided tours of the wildlife refuge, educational films, classes about crane ecology, and organized bird counts for enthusiasts. This event offers the perfect opportunity for wildlife photographers and bird watchers to observe thousands of cranes as they stop in the valley during their migration journey.
8. The Historic Windsor Hotel
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Historic Windsor Hotel stands as a beautifully preserved Victorian landmark in nearby Del Norte, just a short drive from Monte Vista. Built in 1874, this historic hotel features period architecture, antique furnishings, and a glimpse into the region's past during the mining boom era. Today, the restored Windsor serves as both a hotel and dining destination where visitors can experience a taste of Colorado's frontier history.
9. Great Sand Dunes National Park
NORTH AMERICA'S TALLEST DUNES
Great Sand Dunes National Park, located near Monte Vista, features North America's tallest sand dunes set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visitors can experience unique activities including sand sledding, hiking the unmarked dune field, and seasonal water recreation at Medano Creek's natural beach during spring snowmelt. The park offers both developed camping at Piñon Flats Campground and backcountry camping experiences for more adventurous travelers.
10. Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway
HISTORIC CULTURAL ROUTE
Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic and Historic Byway passes through Monte Vista, offering a picturesque driving route through the San Luis Valley. This designated scenic byway connects various cultural and historic sites throughout the region, showcasing the area's rich Hispanic heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Travelers along this route can explore everything from wildlife refuges to historic settlements that date back to some of Colorado's earliest European influences.
11. Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area
PRISTINE WETLAND SANCTUARY
Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area provides another excellent wildlife viewing opportunity near Monte Vista, complementing the nearby national wildlife refuge. The area features protected wetlands that serve as important habitat for numerous bird species, small mammals, and other wildlife native to the San Luis Valley. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, photography, and peaceful immersion in these preserved natural environments throughout different seasons.
12. Penitente Canyon
ROCK CLIMBING DESTINATION
Penitente Canyon near Del Norte has become renowned as one of Colorado's premier rock climbing destinations, offering short but challenging routes on colorful volcanic rock. Beyond climbing, the canyon features hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, and areas of historical significance including ancient Native American art and sites once used by the Penitente religious brotherhood. The canyon's unique geology and cultural history make it an intriguing destination for both adventure seekers and history buffs visiting the Monte Vista area.
13. Montez Skate Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPOT
Montez Skate Park offers skateboarding enthusiasts a dedicated recreation space in Monte Vista for practicing tricks and enjoying the sport. The park features various ramps, rails, and obstacles designed to accommodate skaters of different skill levels. This community gathering spot provides local youth and visitors alike with an active outdoor venue for skateboarding, scootering, and BMX riding.
14. Ski Hi Complex
MULTI-PURPOSE COMMUNITY VENUE
The Ski Hi Complex serves as Monte Vista's premier multi-purpose venue for community events, sports competitions, and regional gatherings. The facility hosts the famous Ski Hi Stampede rodeo events along with numerous other activities throughout the year that bring together locals and visitors. This important community asset represents the heart of Monte Vista's event infrastructure and cultural celebrations.
15. Summitville Mine
HISTORIC MINING SITE
Summitville Mine offers visitors a glimpse into Colorado's mining history through preserved structures and educational displays about this former gold mining operation. Located in the San Juan Mountains near Del Norte, this site tells the complex story of both mining prosperity and environmental challenges that shaped the region. Tours and interpretive information help visitors understand the significant role mining played in Colorado's development while also highlighting modern reclamation efforts at what was once a controversial environmental site.