Ridgway
Ouray
Silverton
Durango
Pagosa Springs
 
 
 
 
 

Story by Kathryn Retzler and Katherine Cruise; 
Photos by James Burke 

Pagosa Springs boasts one of the world’s largest and deepest mineral hot springs. The name of the town comes from “Pa-goh-sah,” a Ute Indian word meaning “healing waters.” In the 1870s, the Ute and Navajo Indians even fought a duel to determine which tribe would control access to the healthful waters. There’s always something happening in Pagosa Springs. In addition to many activities in the town proper, Pagosa Springs also serves as a dramatic gateway to the Weminuche Wilderness, which has a multitude of hiking trails among the mountain forests.

Hot Springs.  Mmmmmm—the springs have been, for centuries, Pagosa's most popular attraction. Native Americans used them, cowboys soaked their tired horses feet in them, Civil War Vetrans came there for "the cure" as did many others in the late 1800s and 1900s. Local residents swear by them and swear they go into withdrawl when away from their daily soak too long. Today, there are two choices. At The Springs Resort, there are seventeen individual soaking pools of naturally hot, therapeutic mineral water, terraced along the banks of the beautiful San Juan River. Across Hot Springs Boulevard at The Spa, you can enjoy the large swimming pool, find a quiet respite in the indoor hot baths, available for both men and women, or soak in the outdoor coed hot tub nestled in a serene and secluded setting. Massage is available on-site or at nearby facilities to complete the relaxing hot springs experience. (Related story, San Juan Silver Stage.)

Recreation. Nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area, with western Colorado's biggest winter snow base, draws skiers of all skills and interests. Warm-weather fans enjoy taking to the links on two fine courses. Pagosa also offers outstanding hiking, biking and fishing opportunities. For those who prefer a car trip to a hike, try a drive south into New Mexico and explore some of the old Spanish villages. If riding the rails suits your fancy, Durango's D&SNGRR is just 65 miles to the west, and the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is only 50 miles to the south at Chama, New Mexico (about a two hour drive).

Events & Activities. Seasonal events include the Red Ryder Roundup Rodeo and the Archuleta County Fair in July, the Four Corners Folk Festival in August, and the Colorfest Hot Air Balloon Rally in September.  Be sure to visit to the family-friendly Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, five miles south of town on U.S. Hwy 84. The best time to come is feeding time, 4 p.m. in summer or 2 p.m. in winter. The many art galleries, fine shopping, delicious dining and friendly people make visiting here a pleasure any time of year. For current calendar of events, check the San Juan Silver Stage Event Calendar.

History. Pagosa takes it's name from its curative waters and much of its history from those who used them. After the arrival of the white man in the mid 1800s, the area was timbered for many years. Logging operations ran side by side with big cattle ranches, for the meadows and pasturelands nearby are perfect for raising cattle. Much of the old ranching history has been preseerved by Fred Harmon Jr. at his Fred Haroam Museum at the west end of town. Harmon's family records show that before the railroad came, it  took two or more days for the old ranchers to come into town for supplies. 

How to get there. Pagosa Springs is located on US Highway 160, approximately 65 miles east of Durango which provides air and car rental service to the area.