Explore the Wild with Crestone Lodging!
Taken from our newsletter sent Tuesday, March 12, 2024 • Subscribe at the bottom of this post so you don’t miss future issues!
Crestone Lodging: The Perfect Homebase for Exploring the Wild!
While there are lots of great reasons to visit the San Luis Valley, hiking and enjoying the outdoors are two of the best. There are numerous trails near all of our Crestone Lodging rentals, and more than a few wildlife refuges and areas.
While camping is an enjoyable experience, it's always wonderful to have a warm place to call home after a long hike or a night out in the wilderness. We have a wide variety of vacation rentals for individuals, couples, families and even large groups.
If you're planning on staying a while, we are now leasing Grain Bin Homes for only $850 a month! Text or call us at (719) 480-1867 for more information.
Book now, or read on for a few of our favorite trails and wildlife experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. Scroll to the bottom of this email for an interactive map!
North Crestone Creek Trail
At a little over 5.5 miles long, the North Crestone Creek Trail is perfect for those seeking solitude and a challenging hike. This well-marked trail offers views of the creek that are spectacular, and in the fall the foliage is stunning as well. Fishing is available along the creek and at the end of the trail at North Crestone Lake, where there is also a campground. You can hike this trail with traction gear in the winter, but the ideal time to visit is June through October.
Available activities: Backpacking, Camping (campground), Dog Friendly (on leash), Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Nature Viewing
Willow Lake Trail
Ending with beautiful views of Challenger Point, Kit Carson Mountain and Obstruction Peak, Willow Lake Trail is another challenging hike through the wonder that is the Sangre De Cristo mountains. The streams from the draining of the Obstruction Peak glacial trough can be trickling or rushing depending on when you take your hike, and you're bound to meet some fellow hikers, campers or bird watchers as this is a popular trail.
Available activities: Backpacking, Birding, Camping (dispersed), Dog Friendly, Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Nature Viewing
Cottonwood Creek Trail
Cottonwood Creek Trail is only one mile long, but don't be fooled! It's a tough hike with lots of elevation, and previous hikers have remarked that it can be easy to veer off the path if you're not paying attention. But this trail offers access to some of the higher peaks for climbing in Crestone, and the scenery, though rugged, is some of the best viewing you'll find, especially above the timberline. There are parts that are bordered by private property, so be careful to keep to the trail out of respect for the neighbors.
Available activities: Backpacking, Hiking, Nature Viewing
Baca National Wildlife Refuge
The 93,000 acre Baca National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for elk, deer, cranes and migratory birds, and all other manner of wildlife. The landscape is composed of shrublands, grasslands, wetlands and other diverse features, and the refuge is an important part of the broad conservation effort to protect the wildlife, habitat, and water of the northern San Luis Valley. The Refuge also contains archaeological artifacts that show how humans have been using the area for over 12,00 years! The visitor center has interactive displays and more information about this beautiful area. While all Crestone Lodging locations are a perfect basecamp for this attraction, we'd love to suggest Off Grid at Baca Wildlife Refuge!
Activities: Elk Hunting, Hiking, Nature Viewing, Visitor center
San Luis Lakes Wildlife Area
With unparalleled views of San Luis Lake, the Sand Dunes and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the San Luis Lakes Wildlife Area might become your favorite place to hunt, fish, and enjoy the outdoors in the San Luis Valley. The area has ample resources for biking (contact us to rent an e-bike!), boating, hiking, horseback riding and birding. There are even electrical hookups in some areas, though it is asked that they are used sparingly since this is a free service and funding is always a concern. The campgrounds are often very busy, so be prepared to make some new friends, or even better, retire to the privacy and comfort of your rental with Crestone Lodging when you're done enjoying your day!
Activities: Backpacking, Biking, Birding, Boating, Camping (campground), Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Nature Viewing
Find the Perfect End to a Perfect Day at Vacation Rentals Crestone
After a day of hiking or a night of camping, come back to peace and relaxation (and plumbing and electricity!) at one of our ideally located homes. Our accommodations are tailored to give you the comfort and amenities needed to ponder the wonder of the wilderness and wildlife of the San Luis Valley, and the adventures you’ll create with family and friends.
Find an interactive map of all these locations at the bottom of this page.
Interactive Map for Locations and Experiences in this Blog