Costilla County is stunning all year long. However, summer offers its own unique beauty. Don’t miss the destinations on this Costilla County area summer bucket list.
Splash in Medano Creek at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Cool off in the creek while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the sand dunes set against the Rocky Mountains. Great Sand Dunes fun does not end with Medano Creek. Hike a forested trail for a break from the heat. Trek to Sand Creek Lakes, where the wildflowers and snowfields are best seen in July. Dig your toes into North America’s natural sandbox. Relax with the park’s summer concert series. While in the park, visitors can also enjoy sandboarding, horseback riding, and so much more. Camp overnight to enjoy exceptional stargazing and dazzling sunsets. Check conditions in advance to know what to expect. National Park passes are required.
Hike to Zapata Falls
Traverse the moderately difficult 0.9 mile trail and receive the reward of a refreshing and beautiful 30-foot natural waterfall. Hikers will also be treated to expansive views of the San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes National Park with the Sangre de Cristo range in the background. The cold water, rock walls, and mist provide a respite from the strong summer sun, but morning is recommended to avoid lines. Visitors should anticipate slick rocks and wet conditions. Benches for those in need of a break are found along the trail. Parking and hiking are no charge, but the road to the parking area is a bumpy ride. Bathrooms are available at the parking area. Pets on a leash are welcome. Additional trails can be accessed below the parking area.
Cycle through Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
Take in magnificent snow-capped vistas while surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo, San Juan Mountains, and the Sawatch. Watch the Rio Grande wind lazily through the refuge, which is home to over 200 species of birds, as well as elk, mule deer, coyotes and more. Lucky visitors might even spot a porcupine! Certain sections are open to hunting in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations and seasons. Fishing is not permitted. Dawn and dusk are the best time for spotting wildlife activity. At sunset, the peaks of the Sangre de Cristo take on the red glow that earned their name. The refuge is no cost to visitors. A visitor center is available on weekdays.
Stay at Zapata Ranch
Explore the myriad of activities offered by Zapata Ranch, owned by The Nature Conservancy and managed by Ranchlands. Want to experience life on a working cattle and bison ranch? Work alongside wranglers and ranch staff. See for yourself how cattle and bison operations can live in harmony with conservation practices. Horseback ride in Great Sand Dunes National Park. Take a bison tour through the 50,000 acre portion of the ranch known as the Medano, where you can encounter the ranch’s herd of 2,000 North American plains bison. Fish in one of the ranch’s lakes. Sample food and drink that bring a whole new meaning to the word “local”. The ranch’s 15-bedroom lodge is the perfect place to rest after a ranch workday. The ranch’s facilities can even be rented for special events or family reunions.
Summer adventure awaits in Costilla County. If you have your own summer bucket list, we would love to hear about it!
Check out the land we have for sale in Costilla County or contact us at (636) 695-8800. We look forward to hearing from you!