Mountain of Facts
AGRICULTURE
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Agriculture in the Valley is dependent on irrigation, using water supplied by the more abundant precipitation in the surrounding mountains. Normal moisture for the Valley will average 5 to 7 inches per year. The growing season averages about 100 days. A wide variety of crops are grown locally.
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Summer grazing of cattle and sheep on nearby mountain ranges is extensive. Potatoes, wheat and barley, both malting and feed, are the main cash crops in Rio Grande County. For the latest year in which statistics were available, the San Luis Valley's 76,8000 acres of potatoes produced 23.8 million-hundredweight. In Rio Grande County alone 20,000 acres of barley produced 2.1 million bushels.
Other crops in Rio Grande County, all grown under irrigation, include 7,700 acres of spring wheat which produced 780,000 bushels; 1,300 acres of oats produced 150,105 bushels; 33,4000 acres of alfalfa and native hay produced 109,000 tons of hay. Small acreage and other vegetable crops, including spinach, cabbage, carrots and lettuce are also produced.
County ranches handle cattle and calves (predominately cow/calf operations), hogs and sheep. Hogs and lambs are fattened in the county, while most of the calves are sold or shipped as feeders to northern Colorado, western Kansas and other Midwestern states.
Other crops in Rio Grande County, all grown under irrigation, include 7,700 acres of spring wheat which produced 780,000 bushels; 1,300 acres of oats produced 150,105 bushels; 33,4000 acres of alfalfa and native hay produced 109,000 tons of hay. Small acreage and other vegetable crops, including spinach, cabbage, carrots and lettuce are also produced.
County ranches handle cattle and calves (predominately cow/calf operations), hogs and sheep. Hogs and lambs are fattened in the county, while most of the calves are sold or shipped as feeders to northern Colorado, western Kansas and other Midwestern states.
Arts
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The San Luis Valley i shome to well over 500 visual, performing and musical artists, many of them nationally recognized. Monte Vista has two organizations from which the local artists may find support and inspiration.
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MAC, the Monte Arts Council, is a newly formed non-profit with the intent to "create a sustainable cultural and artistic community in Monte Vista". Additionally, The Art Thing is a local group of artists that meets every two to three weeks to support each other and promote the arts. Fans of theater will find an active thespian scene in the Valley. Monte Vista is home to the Rocky Mountain Stage troup. In Creed e and Alamosa, the Creede Repertory Theater and Adams State College are also host to many fine and award-winning productions throughout the year.
Many talented musical artists call Monte Vista their home as well. They perform music of all genres, from classic to country. Artists of all kinds find their inspiration in the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of the people.
Many talented musical artists call Monte Vista their home as well. They perform music of all genres, from classic to country. Artists of all kinds find their inspiration in the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of the people.
Business
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Monte Vista and Rio Grande County's economy is based primarily on two sources. Agriculture is the largest contributor and is followed by government, including headquarters for the Rio Grande National Forest.
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Sales taxes now being assessed in the area include 2% for the City, 2.6% for the County and 2.9% for the State. State tax is not collected on food.
A sense of community with diverse and hardworking citizens is another paramount attribute of Monte Vista. It is positioned for a bright future. The economic incentives are providing opportunities for retail and commercial expansion in the historic downtown and industrial expansion at the edges of the city. If you would like even more information about relocating or starting you own business in Monte Vista please visit www.urg-ed.com for help
A sense of community with diverse and hardworking citizens is another paramount attribute of Monte Vista. It is positioned for a bright future. The economic incentives are providing opportunities for retail and commercial expansion in the historic downtown and industrial expansion at the edges of the city. If you would like even more information about relocating or starting you own business in Monte Vista please visit www.urg-ed.com for help
Churches
There are over 20 churches in Monte Vista representing virtually all denominations and offering a wide range of activities. Several of them have been established in the city of Monte Vista for over 100 years.
- Calvary Baptist Church - 2160 Sherman Ave - (719) 852-5090
- Church of Christ - 200 Franklin - (719) 852-3811
- Church of Jesus Christ LDS - 99 E Prospect - (719) 852-3821
- First Baptist Church - 256 Broadway - (719) 852-3414
- First Christian Church - 200 Washington - (719) 852-5086
- First Presbyterian Church - 705 Second Ave. - (719) 852-2555
- Grace Baptist Church - 403 Lincoln - (719) 852-2643
- Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses - 1606 Park Ave - (719) 852-0238
- New Life Apostolic Assembly - 211 Monroe - (719) 852-2208
- Seventh Day Adventist - 202 Tyndal - (719) 852-2097
- St. Joseph's Catholic Church - 425 Batterson - (719) 852-2673
- St. Peter Lutheran Church - 1821 Grande Ave - (719) 852-3424
- St. Stephen the Martyr Church - 729 Third Ave - (719) 852 3274
- United Methodist Church - 215 Washington - (719) 852-2853
- Valley Church of the Nazarene - 228 Madison - (719) 852-5858
Climate
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The climate in Monte Vista is marked by much sunshine, light precipitation, cold winters and moderate summers. Approximately 80 percent of the annual precipitation occurs between April and October, mostly in the form of light showers that develop over the mountains and move into the Valley in the afternoon.
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Mountain ranges to the East reach altitudes of over 14,000 feet, while those West are between 13,000 and 14,000 feet. The San Luis Valley floor ranges in altitude from 7,500 to almost 8,000 feet and has a remarkably flat surface. The altitude in Monte Vista is 7,666 feet.
Winter snows, which mainly occur in frequent light falls, average 25 to 35 inches per year in Monte Vista. Summer is mostly characterized by days with maximum temperatures in the mid-eighties and lows in the forties.
Winter snows, which mainly occur in frequent light falls, average 25 to 35 inches per year in Monte Vista. Summer is mostly characterized by days with maximum temperatures in the mid-eighties and lows in the forties.
Monte Vista School District
The mission of Monte Vista School District is to “Inspire the Pursuit of Excellence, One Student at a Time, as we follow our vision of achieving educational excellence by preparing students, parents, staff, and community members for the future.
Monte Vista School District educates over 1100 students in preschool through 12th grade. The District is comprised of one Pk-K school; one 1-5 grade elementary; one 6-8 grade middle school; one 9-12 grade high school; and a 9-12 grade alternative learning center. We are also home to Colorado’s first online school the 4th-12th grade Monte Vista Online Academy which serves more than 100 students from across Colorado. Ethnically rich, 70% of our students are of Hispanic descent with 28% of Anglo background and the remaining 2% of Native American, Asian, Black, and Pacific Islander background. Female students make up 48% of our enrollment, with males students making up the other 52%.
MVSD has a rich tradition of excellence especially in the areas of marching band and science education. This academic heritage is blended with a culture in which students know that staff care for them individually and strive to captivate their minds through stimulating learning events. Nearly 90 educators and 60 support staff seek to differentiate each student’s experiences through one-to-one technology and personalized attention to their learning needs.
Phone: (719) 852 5996 Website
The mission of Monte Vista School District is to “Inspire the Pursuit of Excellence, One Student at a Time, as we follow our vision of achieving educational excellence by preparing students, parents, staff, and community members for the future.
Monte Vista School District educates over 1100 students in preschool through 12th grade. The District is comprised of one Pk-K school; one 1-5 grade elementary; one 6-8 grade middle school; one 9-12 grade high school; and a 9-12 grade alternative learning center. We are also home to Colorado’s first online school the 4th-12th grade Monte Vista Online Academy which serves more than 100 students from across Colorado. Ethnically rich, 70% of our students are of Hispanic descent with 28% of Anglo background and the remaining 2% of Native American, Asian, Black, and Pacific Islander background. Female students make up 48% of our enrollment, with males students making up the other 52%.
MVSD has a rich tradition of excellence especially in the areas of marching band and science education. This academic heritage is blended with a culture in which students know that staff care for them individually and strive to captivate their minds through stimulating learning events. Nearly 90 educators and 60 support staff seek to differentiate each student’s experiences through one-to-one technology and personalized attention to their learning needs.
Phone: (719) 852 5996 Website
Employment
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Division of Employment and Training, provides two full-service Workforce Centers in Monte Vista and Alamosa to serve the six rural counties of the San Luis Valley.
The Valley has a total annual average labor force of 21,906 workers, 20,569 employed and 1,339 unemployed. While a large number of these individuals possess skills relative to the Valley's largest agricultural industry, the school system is the largest employer. The Workforce Center has employment applications from qualified workers representing all skills and trades, including those with professional and managerial experience.
Services available through the Workforce Center include pre-screening and interview scheduling for employers wishing to avoid the time and expense associated with handling a great number of phone calls and conducting numerous applicant interviews. A direct dollar-saving program in the form of on-the-job training reimbursement is also available. Labor market information in the form of area wage surveys, employment and unemployment statistics, and occupational characteristics of the region's labor market may also be obtained through the office.
For further information, contact South Central Workforce Center at 2079 Sherman Avenue, Monte Vista, CO 81144, (719) 852-5171.
The Valley has a total annual average labor force of 21,906 workers, 20,569 employed and 1,339 unemployed. While a large number of these individuals possess skills relative to the Valley's largest agricultural industry, the school system is the largest employer. The Workforce Center has employment applications from qualified workers representing all skills and trades, including those with professional and managerial experience.
Services available through the Workforce Center include pre-screening and interview scheduling for employers wishing to avoid the time and expense associated with handling a great number of phone calls and conducting numerous applicant interviews. A direct dollar-saving program in the form of on-the-job training reimbursement is also available. Labor market information in the form of area wage surveys, employment and unemployment statistics, and occupational characteristics of the region's labor market may also be obtained through the office.
For further information, contact South Central Workforce Center at 2079 Sherman Avenue, Monte Vista, CO 81144, (719) 852-5171.
Financial Services
The financial needs of the area are served by three commercial banks and a savings and loan. Other financial institutions in the Valley consist of six commercial banks and two savings and loans.
Monte Vista is located in the San Luis Valley Upper Arkansas Enterprise Zone, which provides state tax incentives and cash credits for new jobs created. Some of the credits allowed are an investment tax credit on qualifying equipment purchases and for expenditures on qualifying research and experimental activities conducted in the zone. Additional Enterprise Zone information is available by contacting Development Resources Group at (719) 589-6099.
The Valley's Revolving Loan Fund, also operated by Development Resources Group, provides low interest (prime or lower) gap financing loans ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for business expansion, new startups, and retentions. RLF loans are best used for real estate purchases, equipment, inventory and working capital. RLF loan pools were generated by CDBG and EDA grants ranging in size from $150,000 to $300,000 and may be recapitalized from these sources. About $212,000 per year in paid-back loan principal is being generated for re-lending.
The Valley's Revolving Loan Fund, also operated by Development Resources Group, provides low interest (prime or lower) gap financing loans ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for business expansion, new startups, and retentions. RLF loans are best used for real estate purchases, equipment, inventory and working capital. RLF loan pools were generated by CDBG and EDA grants ranging in size from $150,000 to $300,000 and may be recapitalized from these sources. About $212,000 per year in paid-back loan principal is being generated for re-lending.
For Seniors
For Senior Citizens, Tri-County Senior Citizens Center provides activities, transportation and housing. The Legacy Assisted Living Center provides the best of independent living without the worry of maintenance and upkeep.
Tri-County Senior Citizens Center, a Colorado non-profit corporation, provides activities, transportation and housing. Activities include exercise and discount programs, potluck dinners, day and overnight trips, arts and crafts classes, blood pressure monitoring and more. Regular transportation routes are run to surrounding towns in the Valley. Housing consists of Mountain View Manor with 33 units and High Valley Manor with 36 units. Units are 550-600 sq. ft. and include one bedroom and a full kitchen. Tri-County Senior Citizens Center may be reached by phoning (719) 852-5778.
The Legacy assisted living center provides the best of independent living without the worry of maintenance and upkeep. A spacious living room, dining room and activity room provides various places to meet with friends and family. Resident assistants, available 24 hours a day, provide a helping hand. All assisted living studio and one-bedroom apartments have individually controlled heating and air conditioning, state of the art life-safety features, private bathrooms, kitchenettes and pre-wiring for telephone and cable TV. Standard service includes 24-hour supervision for safety and security, 3 well-balanced meals daily, weekly housekeeping, emergency call signals in each bedroom and bath, weekly personal laundry and linen services, whirlpool spa, and much more. For more information phone (719) 852-5179.
Nursing care facilities include the Colorado State Veterans Center (providing service to veterans since 1889) and Mountain Meadows Nursing Center. Both have 60 beds with skilled nursing care and the Veterans Center also has capacity for 40 veterans and/or spouses in cottages. The Center has committed resources to increase its facilities. There are several additional nursing homes in the surrounding area.
The Legacy assisted living center provides the best of independent living without the worry of maintenance and upkeep. A spacious living room, dining room and activity room provides various places to meet with friends and family. Resident assistants, available 24 hours a day, provide a helping hand. All assisted living studio and one-bedroom apartments have individually controlled heating and air conditioning, state of the art life-safety features, private bathrooms, kitchenettes and pre-wiring for telephone and cable TV. Standard service includes 24-hour supervision for safety and security, 3 well-balanced meals daily, weekly housekeeping, emergency call signals in each bedroom and bath, weekly personal laundry and linen services, whirlpool spa, and much more. For more information phone (719) 852-5179.
Nursing care facilities include the Colorado State Veterans Center (providing service to veterans since 1889) and Mountain Meadows Nursing Center. Both have 60 beds with skilled nursing care and the Veterans Center also has capacity for 40 veterans and/or spouses in cottages. The Center has committed resources to increase its facilities. There are several additional nursing homes in the surrounding area.
Government
The city provides a full line of services including police, fire, municipal court, emergency services, public works, parks and recreation, street maintenance, water, sewer and trash service.
Housing
Located centrally in the Valley, Monte Vista is within easy, non-congested commuting distance of both farm and mountain homes. The town itself is composed of approximately 1,000 homes ranging in value from $45,000 to $170,000. Cozy bungalows and larger old Victorian homes with well-developed lawns, trees, and shrubs fill the central part of town while newer brick ranch and colonial homes with spacious yards sit on the outskirts. Small acreage for the "Sunday farmer" or the horse fancier are available in the area. Mountain cabins on trout-filled lakes and streams or in forests of aspens and pines are nearby and reasonably priced. Current rates for rental property are between $400 and $650.
History
During the summer of 1881, when the railroad was extended from Alamosa to Del Norte, a watering tank was established on a siding where Monte Vista now stands. This was known as the Lariat siding, and it was here that Lillian Fassett opened the first store in what was to become Monte Vista.
In July of 1882 the original townsite was platted and called Lariat. On May 1, 1884, the town was renamed Henry in honor of its promoter, T.C. Henry. The town was renamed Monte Vista (Spanish for "mountain view") in 1886 when it was incorporated.
The first meeting of the town board was on October 2, 1886 with its first mayor, Charles S. Fassett, presiding. In February of 1913 Monte Vista was organized as a city of the second class. In April of 1922 Monte Vistans adopted a city home-rule charter and the city manager form of government under which the municipality still operates today.
For more information on the city or the services provided, contact Monte Vista City Hall, 4 Chico Camino, Monte Vista, CO 81144, 719-852-2692.
Industrial Development
The Monte Vista Regional Development Corporation owns 15 acres of land near the Monte Vista city limits. The land is zoned industrial and is served by three access roads with railroad service also close by.
For information on our Business Park Development west of Monte Vista, please contact the City of Monte Vista at 719-852-2692.
The Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce can answer additional questions about the community.
License / Registration
Vehicle registration and licenses are required for residents and businesses in Colorado. Anyone who owns or controls the use of any motor vehicle must title and register those vehicles. Registration should be applied for as soon as a vehicle is purchased or when the owner is employed or residency is established. Information on vehicle licenses is available at the Rio Grande County Clerk's office, (719) 657-3334.
Driver's license applications can be obtained at the Driver's License Office at 715 Sixth Street in Alamosa. New residents have 30 days after establishing residency and employment to obtain a Colorado driver's license. A written test may be required.
In order to vote in Colorado, a person must be a U.S. citizen 18 years or older. A person must have registered 25 days prior to any election and meet a 32 day residency requirement. Applications for voter registration can be made at City Hall.
In order to vote in Colorado, a person must be a U.S. citizen 18 years or older. A person must have registered 25 days prior to any election and meet a 32 day residency requirement. Applications for voter registration can be made at City Hall.
Medical Facilities
The Monte Vista community is centrally located to several medical facilities including the San Luis Valley Medical Clinic, Rio Grande Medical Clinic, Dentists, Optometrists, and Nursing Care Facilities.
Monte Vista is served by the San Luis Valley Medical Clinic and Rio Grande Medical Clinic. Services provided include 24-hour emergency care and laboratory/x-ray. There are currently staff physicians with specialties represented in family practice and office surgery. Additionally, we have four dentists and three optometrists providing dental and eye care services. A chiropractic clinic and massage therapy clinic is also located in Monte Vista. Other services include 24-hour ambulance service, San Luis Valley Home Care nursing service, social services and long-term care. The surrounding area provides additional support that includes three hospitals with a total of 146 beds.
The Rio Grande Hospital is located in Del Norte and is a primary care facility (719) 657-2510. The area's largest hospital is the San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center located in Alamosa (719) 589-2511. For specific information on physicians, contact the San Luis Valley Medical Clinic, 404 Morris Street, Monte Vista, CO 81144, (719) 852-4073 or Rio Grande Medical Center, 95-A W. First Avenue, Monte Vista, CO 81144, (719) 852-2512.
Nursing care facilities include the Colorado State Veterans Center (providing service to veterans since 1889) and Mountain Meadows Nursing Center. Both have 60 beds with skilled nursing care and the Veterans Center also has capacity for 40 veterans and/or spouses in cottages. The Center has committed resources to increase its facilities. There are several additional nursing homes in the surrounding area.
The Rio Grande Hospital is located in Del Norte and is a primary care facility (719) 657-2510. The area's largest hospital is the San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center located in Alamosa (719) 589-2511. For specific information on physicians, contact the San Luis Valley Medical Clinic, 404 Morris Street, Monte Vista, CO 81144, (719) 852-4073 or Rio Grande Medical Center, 95-A W. First Avenue, Monte Vista, CO 81144, (719) 852-2512.
Nursing care facilities include the Colorado State Veterans Center (providing service to veterans since 1889) and Mountain Meadows Nursing Center. Both have 60 beds with skilled nursing care and the Veterans Center also has capacity for 40 veterans and/or spouses in cottages. The Center has committed resources to increase its facilities. There are several additional nursing homes in the surrounding area.
Population
For more information about the population and city demographics, visit: http://www.city-data.com/city/Monte-Vista-Colorado.html
Quick Reference Numbers
A list of important numbers for local services.
City of Monte Vista 719-852-2692
Monte Vista Post Office 719-852-3431
National Weather Service 719-589-3232
Rio Grande County Assessor 719-657-3326
Rio Grande County Clerk 719-657-3334
SLV Information Center 719-852-0660
Monte Vista Post Office 719-852-3431
National Weather Service 719-589-3232
Rio Grande County Assessor 719-657-3326
Rio Grande County Clerk 719-657-3334
SLV Information Center 719-852-0660
Recreation
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Monte Vista and the surrounding areas offer recreational opportunities ranging from a municipal golf course to hunting and fishing along the Rio Grande River
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At the Monte Vista Golf Club you will find a pro shop and tennis courts to supplement the beautiful 9-hole golf course.Through the Parks and Recreation Department of Monte Vista a variety of organized youth activities are available including tee ball, baseball, soccer, basketball, ponytail basketball, flag football, tackle football and indoor lap and swimming instruction.
Adult activities, special interest classes, softball, volleyball, tournaments, and other events are held annually. Ski Hi Park, the municipal recreation facility in Monte Vista, accommodates many of these activities. Monte Vista also has both an indoor and outdoor movie theater and a bowling alley to provide other forms of relaxation and pleasure.
Active youngsters and adults may join local clubs that provide constructive learning projects. The clubs include 4-H, Boy and Girl Scouts, model plane club, square dancing, 4-wheel drive clubs, car club and gun club.
Wolf Creek Ski Area is world renowned for its snow depth, yet remains largely an undiscovered area with five active lifts. Skiers rarely wait in line at the foot of the lifts and enjoy a very exhilarating experience.
Deer and game bird hunting is popular along the Rio Grande River and in the fields and meadows around Monte Vista. Home Lake, just east of the city, and the Rio Grande River also provide excellent fishing and water sports.
Several other golf courses (Rio Grande Club in South Fork and Cattails in Alamosa), the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Narrow Gauge Railroad, Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, and the Alamosa-Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge complex provide additional nearby recreational activities.
If you are feeling nostalgic and looking for a way to experience history and beauty, take a trip on on of three highly rated trains found in the San Luis Valley. Most trips are full day - complete with lunch stops, however some shorter excursions are available. Sit back and relax as the engines pull you up the hills and around the mountains to some of the best secluded vistas in the state. Our three railroads are: Denver & Rio Grande, Rio Grande Scenic and Cumbres and Toltec.
A variety of cultural and community activities are to be found in Monte Vista, including art shows, festivals, and other events. Some of these include the San Luis Valley 4-H Fair, trade shows, Ski Hi Stampede (the oldest pro rodeo in Colorado), and our Crane Festival.
Theater and artistic events are sponsored by Rocky Mountain Stage Productions, located in Monte Vista. The Creede Repertory Theatre is in nearby Creede and provides exceptional entertainment during the summer months. Adams State College also provides our area with numerous social and cultural events. The Rio Grande County Museum, one of the eight historic museums in the area, offers a glimpse of the colorful past of our area.
The Carnegie Public Library offers programs and cultural activities and access to any book in print. Telephone is (719) 852-3931.
For more information on our calendar of events, please call the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce at (719) 852-2731, (800) 562-7085, e-mail us at [email protected] or visit our website at www.monte-vista.org.
Monte Vista's largest neighbor is the 1.8 million acre Rio Grande National Forest, headquartered two miles west of Monte Vista. Created in 1908 by a Presidential Proclamation by President Theodore Roosevelt, the Rio Grande National Forest boasts portions of two of Colorado's most spectacular mountain ranges - the San Juan and the Sangre de Cristo. Also located in the forest are the headwaters of the third longest river in the U.S. - the Rio Grande del Norte, or "Great River of the North" as it was known by the early Spanish and Indian inhabitants of the Southwest.
The Rio Grande National Forest of today is a mecca for campers, backpackers, mountain bikers, folks who enjoy lake, stream, or river fishing, elk and deer hunters, or just the many visitors who enjoy a picnic.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve: Resulting from geological events after volcanoes and calderas formed the surrounding mountains, wind swept sand into this alcove of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. At this beach in the mountains you will find Medano Creek for cooling off, wildlife, sandboarding, sand castles and Zapata falls. For more information, visit: www.nps.gov/grsa.
Colorado Gators Repile Park in Mosca: Home to over 200 alligators, crocodiles, snakes, lizards turtles, ostriches, and turtles. Water heated from geothermal activity below the surface of the earth keep this spot warm year-round! For more information, visit: www.coloradogators.com.
Trail Systems: The San Luis Valley is a hot spot for hiking and horse back riding. Currently 22 trails are available and open to the public in the Rio Grande National Forest, most are just a 30 minute drive from Monte Vista. These trails include short nature hikes, to full day adven-tures. Please keep in mind that all Forest Service Roads are also available for Mtn. Biking, Nature Hikes, Horseback rides, ATV’s and dirt bikes, but trails are use specific. While hikers and hors-es can use any of the motor-ized shared use trails, motorized travelers cannot use hike/horse only trails. Penitente Canyon A & B Loops offers a total change of scenery from other area trail. Desert, boulders, and slickrock make for the ultimate mountain bike playground!
Crater LakeStrenuous / Steep4.5 Miles
Giant Fir TreeEasy1/2 Mile
Wagon TracksEasy1/2 Mile
Million ReservoirEasy1.2 Mile
Natural ArchEasy to Moderate1/2 Mile
Bonito PassModerate to Difficult3 1/4 Miles
Middle FriscoEasyVariable
Penitente CanyonVariousVarious
Freemont's CampModerate7 Miles
Wheeler GeologicModerate to Difficult14 MilesShared Use ATV / Dirk Bike Trails - we have over 150 Miles of ATV & Jeep Trails!
TewksberryModerate5 Miles
Cross CreekModerate4 Miles
CathedralEasy to Moderate3 1/4 Miles
East BearModerate4 Miles
Shady CreekModerate10 Miles
Church CreekModerate4 Miles
Little La GaritaModerateVarious
Frisco FittonDifficult3 Miles
BennetExpertVarious
West FriscoDifficultVarios
S. Rock CreekModerate to Difficult1.95 Miles
Wolf CreekExpertVariousFishing: Cold water fishing still remains top-notch, with only minimal closures due to the fire perimeter. 22 miles of the Rio Grande are designated as Gold Medal, catch and release trophy trout fishing for Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brown Trout. Guides are available for wade and float trips, and for those looking to go beyond the reaches of public access points. In addition to wonderful mountain lakes and streams teaming with Trout, other opportunities exist such as: Big Meadows Reservoir, Beaver Creek Reservoir, Million Reservoir, Pass Lake, Tucker Ponds, Poage Lake, Embargo Creek, Canero Creek, La Garita Creek, Pinos Creek, San Francisco Creek, Beaver Creek, and the South Fork of the Rio Grande.
Warm water fishing is also available within the San Luis Valley; Blanca Wildlife Habitat Area (BLM Ponds) have Large-mouth Bass and Blue Gill. And portions of the Alamosa River contain Carp and Pike.
Wildflowers: You don’t have to go far to notice the overwhelming variety of flowers that are in bloom ranging from pale yellow to bright reds and purple along the road , in open meadows and in shaded aspen groves. Our San Juan Mountains are famous for their many, many species of asters & sunflowers, columbine, and five species of gentians. Be on the look out for Bluebell’s, Elephant Head, Larkspur, Lupine, Wild Iris, Indian Paint Brush and Black-eyed Susan’s. Check local event listings for forays.
Silver Thread Scenic and Historic Byway: This historic route carries you on a 117 mile journey from South Fork to Gunnison, along highway 149, passing through the towns of Lake City and Creede.
The colorful old mining camps, stage stops and homesteads of the Silver Thread offer history, scenic beauty, and a heavy dose of authenticity. A Milepost Guide book, which provides details for numbered sites along the route, is available for $1.00 at any of the by-way visitor centers.
Other Scenic Drives: Bachelors Loop & Los Caminos Antiquos
Adult activities, special interest classes, softball, volleyball, tournaments, and other events are held annually. Ski Hi Park, the municipal recreation facility in Monte Vista, accommodates many of these activities. Monte Vista also has both an indoor and outdoor movie theater and a bowling alley to provide other forms of relaxation and pleasure.
Active youngsters and adults may join local clubs that provide constructive learning projects. The clubs include 4-H, Boy and Girl Scouts, model plane club, square dancing, 4-wheel drive clubs, car club and gun club.
Wolf Creek Ski Area is world renowned for its snow depth, yet remains largely an undiscovered area with five active lifts. Skiers rarely wait in line at the foot of the lifts and enjoy a very exhilarating experience.
Deer and game bird hunting is popular along the Rio Grande River and in the fields and meadows around Monte Vista. Home Lake, just east of the city, and the Rio Grande River also provide excellent fishing and water sports.
Several other golf courses (Rio Grande Club in South Fork and Cattails in Alamosa), the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Narrow Gauge Railroad, Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, and the Alamosa-Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge complex provide additional nearby recreational activities.
If you are feeling nostalgic and looking for a way to experience history and beauty, take a trip on on of three highly rated trains found in the San Luis Valley. Most trips are full day - complete with lunch stops, however some shorter excursions are available. Sit back and relax as the engines pull you up the hills and around the mountains to some of the best secluded vistas in the state. Our three railroads are: Denver & Rio Grande, Rio Grande Scenic and Cumbres and Toltec.
A variety of cultural and community activities are to be found in Monte Vista, including art shows, festivals, and other events. Some of these include the San Luis Valley 4-H Fair, trade shows, Ski Hi Stampede (the oldest pro rodeo in Colorado), and our Crane Festival.
Theater and artistic events are sponsored by Rocky Mountain Stage Productions, located in Monte Vista. The Creede Repertory Theatre is in nearby Creede and provides exceptional entertainment during the summer months. Adams State College also provides our area with numerous social and cultural events. The Rio Grande County Museum, one of the eight historic museums in the area, offers a glimpse of the colorful past of our area.
The Carnegie Public Library offers programs and cultural activities and access to any book in print. Telephone is (719) 852-3931.
For more information on our calendar of events, please call the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce at (719) 852-2731, (800) 562-7085, e-mail us at [email protected] or visit our website at www.monte-vista.org.
Monte Vista's largest neighbor is the 1.8 million acre Rio Grande National Forest, headquartered two miles west of Monte Vista. Created in 1908 by a Presidential Proclamation by President Theodore Roosevelt, the Rio Grande National Forest boasts portions of two of Colorado's most spectacular mountain ranges - the San Juan and the Sangre de Cristo. Also located in the forest are the headwaters of the third longest river in the U.S. - the Rio Grande del Norte, or "Great River of the North" as it was known by the early Spanish and Indian inhabitants of the Southwest.
The Rio Grande National Forest of today is a mecca for campers, backpackers, mountain bikers, folks who enjoy lake, stream, or river fishing, elk and deer hunters, or just the many visitors who enjoy a picnic.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve: Resulting from geological events after volcanoes and calderas formed the surrounding mountains, wind swept sand into this alcove of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. At this beach in the mountains you will find Medano Creek for cooling off, wildlife, sandboarding, sand castles and Zapata falls. For more information, visit: www.nps.gov/grsa.
Colorado Gators Repile Park in Mosca: Home to over 200 alligators, crocodiles, snakes, lizards turtles, ostriches, and turtles. Water heated from geothermal activity below the surface of the earth keep this spot warm year-round! For more information, visit: www.coloradogators.com.
Trail Systems: The San Luis Valley is a hot spot for hiking and horse back riding. Currently 22 trails are available and open to the public in the Rio Grande National Forest, most are just a 30 minute drive from Monte Vista. These trails include short nature hikes, to full day adven-tures. Please keep in mind that all Forest Service Roads are also available for Mtn. Biking, Nature Hikes, Horseback rides, ATV’s and dirt bikes, but trails are use specific. While hikers and hors-es can use any of the motor-ized shared use trails, motorized travelers cannot use hike/horse only trails. Penitente Canyon A & B Loops offers a total change of scenery from other area trail. Desert, boulders, and slickrock make for the ultimate mountain bike playground!
Crater LakeStrenuous / Steep4.5 Miles
Giant Fir TreeEasy1/2 Mile
Wagon TracksEasy1/2 Mile
Million ReservoirEasy1.2 Mile
Natural ArchEasy to Moderate1/2 Mile
Bonito PassModerate to Difficult3 1/4 Miles
Middle FriscoEasyVariable
Penitente CanyonVariousVarious
Freemont's CampModerate7 Miles
Wheeler GeologicModerate to Difficult14 MilesShared Use ATV / Dirk Bike Trails - we have over 150 Miles of ATV & Jeep Trails!
TewksberryModerate5 Miles
Cross CreekModerate4 Miles
CathedralEasy to Moderate3 1/4 Miles
East BearModerate4 Miles
Shady CreekModerate10 Miles
Church CreekModerate4 Miles
Little La GaritaModerateVarious
Frisco FittonDifficult3 Miles
BennetExpertVarious
West FriscoDifficultVarios
S. Rock CreekModerate to Difficult1.95 Miles
Wolf CreekExpertVariousFishing: Cold water fishing still remains top-notch, with only minimal closures due to the fire perimeter. 22 miles of the Rio Grande are designated as Gold Medal, catch and release trophy trout fishing for Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brown Trout. Guides are available for wade and float trips, and for those looking to go beyond the reaches of public access points. In addition to wonderful mountain lakes and streams teaming with Trout, other opportunities exist such as: Big Meadows Reservoir, Beaver Creek Reservoir, Million Reservoir, Pass Lake, Tucker Ponds, Poage Lake, Embargo Creek, Canero Creek, La Garita Creek, Pinos Creek, San Francisco Creek, Beaver Creek, and the South Fork of the Rio Grande.
Warm water fishing is also available within the San Luis Valley; Blanca Wildlife Habitat Area (BLM Ponds) have Large-mouth Bass and Blue Gill. And portions of the Alamosa River contain Carp and Pike.
Wildflowers: You don’t have to go far to notice the overwhelming variety of flowers that are in bloom ranging from pale yellow to bright reds and purple along the road , in open meadows and in shaded aspen groves. Our San Juan Mountains are famous for their many, many species of asters & sunflowers, columbine, and five species of gentians. Be on the look out for Bluebell’s, Elephant Head, Larkspur, Lupine, Wild Iris, Indian Paint Brush and Black-eyed Susan’s. Check local event listings for forays.
Silver Thread Scenic and Historic Byway: This historic route carries you on a 117 mile journey from South Fork to Gunnison, along highway 149, passing through the towns of Lake City and Creede.
The colorful old mining camps, stage stops and homesteads of the Silver Thread offer history, scenic beauty, and a heavy dose of authenticity. A Milepost Guide book, which provides details for numbered sites along the route, is available for $1.00 at any of the by-way visitor centers.
Other Scenic Drives: Bachelors Loop & Los Caminos Antiquos
Transportation
Monte Vista is a four-hour drive from Denver either through the Rockies on scenic U.S. 285 or down the front range of the Rockies on I-25 to Walsenburg, then west over LaVeta Pass. From the south, Monte Vista is three hours from Santa Fe by U.S. 285 and four hours from Albuquerque
Because Monte Vista is on the primary east-west highway through southern Colorado, the west coast, the southwest, and eastern states are easily accessible by major highways. The Navajo Trail (U.S. Highway 160) is the shortest and most scenic route from Chicago to Los Angeles.
The Rio Grand Scenic Railroad makes regular runs from Alamosa to Monte Vista at various holidays and during the Summer.
The Monte Vista Municipal Airport is located just five miles from Monte Vista. The 6,000-foot paved and lighted runway serves the Monte Vista area. Services include maintenance, fuel services and flight instruction. Radio frequency 122.8 will activate the runway lights and the Precision Approach Path Indicator lights for night take-offs and landings. Scheduled airline service is available just 17 miles away in Alamosa at the San Luis Valley Regional Airport. The new airport terminal was completed in 2015. It takes approximately one hour to fly to Denver where connections can be made to cities around the world.
Southern Pacific Railroad, San Luis Central Railroad, United Parcel and Fed Ex provide carrier service. Commercial trucking companies also service the area.
The Rio Grand Scenic Railroad makes regular runs from Alamosa to Monte Vista at various holidays and during the Summer.
The Monte Vista Municipal Airport is located just five miles from Monte Vista. The 6,000-foot paved and lighted runway serves the Monte Vista area. Services include maintenance, fuel services and flight instruction. Radio frequency 122.8 will activate the runway lights and the Precision Approach Path Indicator lights for night take-offs and landings. Scheduled airline service is available just 17 miles away in Alamosa at the San Luis Valley Regional Airport. The new airport terminal was completed in 2015. It takes approximately one hour to fly to Denver where connections can be made to cities around the world.
Southern Pacific Railroad, San Luis Central Railroad, United Parcel and Fed Ex provide carrier service. Commercial trucking companies also service the area.
Utilities
In-depth information on available utilities:
Water: The City of Monte Vista provides the water, which is pumped from deep wells, to the city and adjacent areas. The water is of excellent quality, with a temperature of 50 degrees, and requires no treatment.
Sewer: The sewer system is of the primary type and is treated in a series of lagoons. The city completed a 3.2 million dollar waste treatment facility which includes an anaerobic and aerobic lagoon.
Landfill: The SLV Regional Solid Waste Authority is located 6 miles west of Monte Vista. Hours of operation, fees and other information can be found at http://www.slvlandfill.com/
Power: Electric service is provided to Monte Vista and portions of the rural area surrounding it by Xcel Energy of Colorado. For rates and service information, call (800) 772-7858. The San Luis Valley Rural Electric Cooperative provides electric service to the remainder of the rural areas. Information on rates and service can be obtained by calling 719-852-3538. The power supply is more than adequate for the entire area.
Natural Gas: Xcel Energy is a distributor of natural gas to Monte Vista and the area surrounding it, which it finds economically feasible to serve. Natural Gas Group is a wholesale supplier of this natural gas to the San Luis Valley, and present and future supplies of gas are adequate.
Telephone: Centurylink provides telephone service to the area. Rates and service information can be obtained from Centurylink at (800) 603-6000.
Solar: Solar energy is an important opportunity in Monte Vista. According to the National Weather Service in Alamosa, Monte Vista averages only 15 completely cloudy days per year and an average of 350 days per year of mostly sunny days.
Sewer: The sewer system is of the primary type and is treated in a series of lagoons. The city completed a 3.2 million dollar waste treatment facility which includes an anaerobic and aerobic lagoon.
Landfill: The SLV Regional Solid Waste Authority is located 6 miles west of Monte Vista. Hours of operation, fees and other information can be found at http://www.slvlandfill.com/
Power: Electric service is provided to Monte Vista and portions of the rural area surrounding it by Xcel Energy of Colorado. For rates and service information, call (800) 772-7858. The San Luis Valley Rural Electric Cooperative provides electric service to the remainder of the rural areas. Information on rates and service can be obtained by calling 719-852-3538. The power supply is more than adequate for the entire area.
Natural Gas: Xcel Energy is a distributor of natural gas to Monte Vista and the area surrounding it, which it finds economically feasible to serve. Natural Gas Group is a wholesale supplier of this natural gas to the San Luis Valley, and present and future supplies of gas are adequate.
Telephone: Centurylink provides telephone service to the area. Rates and service information can be obtained from Centurylink at (800) 603-6000.
Solar: Solar energy is an important opportunity in Monte Vista. According to the National Weather Service in Alamosa, Monte Vista averages only 15 completely cloudy days per year and an average of 350 days per year of mostly sunny days.
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