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Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway

Discover Colorado's Hispanic roots on Los Caminos Antiguos: a journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes of the San Luis Valley.

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Explore the heart of Colorado's Hispanic heritage on Los Caminos Antiguos, a scenic byway that winds through the historic San Luis Valley. Discover ancient towns, cultural treasures, and stunning natural landscapes, including the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

A brief summary to Los Caminos Antiguos

  • 5998 CO-17, Mosca, Colorado, 81146, US
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Alamosa Welcome Center at the start of the byway to pick up maps and brochures for attractions along the route.
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing at the Alamosa and Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuges.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to drive the entire byway, with extra time for exploring attractions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Los Caminos Antiguos is a 129-mile loop that begins and ends in Alamosa. From Alamosa, head east on US 160, then north on CO 17. The route is well-signed. Allow 3-4 hours to drive the entire byway, not including stops at attractions. Be aware that some roads may be unpaved.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation directly along the entire byway is limited, you can access portions of it via regional buses or the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad from Alamosa. Check schedules and availability in advance. From Alamosa, you can take the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad to La Veta. Ticket prices vary depending on the event.

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Discover more about Los Caminos Antiguos

Los Caminos Antiguos, meaning "the ancient roads," is a 129-mile scenic byway that immerses travelers in the rich tapestry of southern Colorado's San Luis Valley. This historic route, dating back to the 16th-century Spanish territorial expansion, offers a glimpse into the state's oldest surviving communities and enduring Hispanic culture. The byway traverses a sun-baked valley cradled between the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges, where life moves at a slower pace. Along the way, discover historic adobe structures, a testament to the region's early settlements, and experience the hospitality and authentic cuisine that define the area. Key attractions along Los Caminos Antiguos include the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, with its towering dunes set against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Explore the historic Fort Garland, a preserved 1858 military post, and the charming town of San Luis, Colorado's oldest continuously inhabited settlement. The byway also provides access to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, offering a ride through breathtaking mountain canyons. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the Alamosa and Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuges, home to diverse bird species and migrating sandhill cranes. Outdoor activities abound, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the unique landscapes of the San Luis Valley.

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