Pagosa Springs is a charming town in southwest Colorado with activities for the entire family. The summer is a magical time of year with warm temperatures and an abundance of sunshine. There are so many things to do in the summer from hiking to kayaking to taking a hot air balloon ride. Enjoy everything the beautiful San Juan Mountains have to offer.
Check out this video to get a feel for summer in Pagosa Springs.
Ready to visit Pagosa Springs this summer? Here are some things to do in Pagosa Springs in the Summer.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Pagosa Springs is an outdoor playground for nature enthusiasts with more than 3 million acres of National Forest surrounding the town. Not to mention the San Juan River flows right through downtown Pagosa Springs making it the perfect spot for summer water sports. From land to water, there are endless adventures to be had in Pagosa Springs.
Outdoor activities in Pagosa Spring include:
- ATVing through the two ATV trains
- Biking and fat biking on paved roads, forest service roads and singletrack
- Boating on the local rivers and lakes
- Camping in the surrounding wilderness
- Fishing for trout
- Tubing along the San Juan river
- Golfing at the 27-hole championship golf course or playing a round of mini-golf
- Hiking the 650 miles of trails
- Kayaking along the San Juan river
- Paddle Boarding on rivers and lakes
- Rock Climbing along the Piedra River Trail
- White Water Rafting along the San Juan river
Visit the Waterfalls
Who doesn’t love a good waterfall? Pagosa Springs has four scenic waterfalls that are accessible via short to medium hiking trails from downtown.
Treasure Falls is a 100’ waterfall visible from Highway 160. Its name came to be because it is believed there is a chest of gold buried somewhere nearby. Piedra Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls. It is a roughly ½ mile hike from the trailhead to the falls, which takes about thirty minutes round-trip. Fourmile Falls is a double waterfall. This is a three-mile hike that is moderate in intensity as it requires uphill hiking. Silver Falls is located up East Fork Road requiring a ⅛ mile hike. Visit one or visit them all. Don’t forget to snap a selfie for the Waterfall Photo Gallery.
Enjoy the Town
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by nature, the unique town of Pagosa Springs has so much to offer. There is a strong history and culture and a great appreciation of the arts in Pagosa Springs. The area was first discovered by Native American Ute tribes who considered the area as “sacred grounds”. Its history is also filled with explorers, trappers, miners and loggers. Looking to explore the town, check out this free map that can help you plan your trip.
Places to visit in town:
- Pagosa Springs Center for Arts
- Pagosa Springs Museum
- Chimney Rock National Monument
- Southern Ute Cultural Center
- Local shops, restaurants and breweries
- Historic trains
- Arcade
Pagosa Springs is home to three locally owned breweries, one taphouse, and a wide selection of restaurants. There is something to satisfy everyone’s craving in Pagosa Springs. View the latest information on local restaurant hours and operations here.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Looking for a unique way to experience the scenic environment of Pagosa Springs? Why not take a hot air balloon ride! Soar across the sky and experience the beautiful mountains, valleys and wildlife.
Visit the Hot Springs
Pagosa Springs is known for its geothermal hot springs. The Mother Spring aquifer has been Guinness World Record Certified as “The World’s Deepest” at over 1002 feet deep. The hot springs were discovered hundreds of years ago by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and have been known for their healing powers. You can experience 30 different mineral-rich pools in one of the three hot springs facilities located downtown.
Go for a Scenic Drive
Take advantage of the beautiful weather and go for a scenic drive around Pagosa Springs. Don’t forget to plan for stops along the way at the various overlook areas to enjoy the view. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife but remember to always keep a safe distance.
