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Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway
Not all towns appear on map. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for accuracy or completeness of maps. This information was compiled as accurately as possible.
The south central region of Colorado was originally settled as part of requirements for getting and keeping a Spanish or Mexican Grant which called for establishing centers of population and developing the land. However, when the United States obtained this land, San Luis was the first permanent town in Colorado and was founded in 1851. The Los Caminos Antiguos Byway goes through this first town, as well as Fort Garland, Antonito, Alamosa, and into Chama, New Mexico, following the trails of the Spanish Conquerors (see our San Luis Valley Area Map). The byway is 129 miles long and takes about three hours to travel.
As you're traveling the byway, be sure to visit the oldest church in Colorado, Our Lady of Guadeloupe Parish church. Joseph Machebeuf (1812-1889), spread Roman Catholicism throughout Colorado. A French missionary, he said first Mass in Colorado in a crude adobe chapel in Conejos in 1858. It was later replaced by Our Lady of Guadeloupe Church, Colorado's oldest church. The church is located in Conejos, Colorado, just off US Highway 285.
Another interesting historical spot is the Jack Dempsey Museum. Jack Dempsey, born in Manassa, Colorado, June 24, 1895, went on to become the heavy-weight boxing champion of the World. At age 14, Jack began fighting at mining camps under the name "Kid Blackie." At age 24 Jack was the first superstar of the ring, and one of the most popular champions ever. Jack died in 1983. The Museum opened in the 1960s in a one-room log cabin near the spot where Jack grew up. Displayed are boxing mementos and pictures donated by locals and the Dempsey family. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Also in the path of the byway is Fort Garland, one of the first military posts in the region. The 100+ men who manned this fort protected the early settlers of the San Luis Valley.
The Smith Reservoir, The San Luis Lake State Park and Mountain Home Reservoir offer many water activities. Hiking is also available at Zapata Falls. The falls also offers spectacular views of the entire San Luis Valley, the San Juan Mountains, Mount Blanca, and the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains. These areas also boast fabulous wildlife viewing opportunities. Also along the byway is the Blanca Wetlands, a birder's paradise. Also in the area is the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This Park also provides many recreational activities.Enter the byway from The Front Range at Fort Garland, From the North at Mosca, or from the West at Alamosa.
Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do
A touch of Old New Mexico in Chama. 15 rooms with handmade furniture. Family Suite Rooms have gas log fireplaces. Jetted tub. Romance Packages include flowers and private label wine.
For those wanting to escape crowds, Platoro is the place! Nestled in the scenic Conejos Canyon on the beautiful Conejos River, fish for trout, near Platoro Reservoir. 1 & 2 bedroom cabins. Bring your horse!
Old-fashioned hospitality in Colorado's southern mountains. The Conejos River runs thru this historic 19th century, 108 year old lodge, west of Antonito. Cabins with kitchens and lodge rooms with breakfast.
America's Highest & Longest Narrow Gauge Railroad explores 64 miles of wild & rugged territory along the Colorado/New Mexico border, traveling through tunnels, over trestles, & deep into 2 National Forests.
At the gateway to the San Luis Valley, with thousands of places to explore: Great Sand Dunes, Zapata Falls & Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway. Beautiful, large, comfortable rooms, some kitchenettes.
In Antonito, Colorado a short walk to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Narrow Gauge Railroad Depot we sell tickets! Modern motel rooms & RV park with full hookups. Train riders, hunters & fishermen welcome!
Mid-way between Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico along the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway. Beautiful combination of pine and cottonwood trees with the Conejos River running through it.
Camp in shade along Chama River in Chama, New Mexico along scenic Highway 17 and watch the train as it steams over the bridge by our campground. BIG RIGS welcome - 60 foot drive-thrus sites!
Natural Hot Artesian Water, 30 minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. RV and Camping spots with water and electric hookups. Stay here & receive 1/2 off your pool admission.
Ask for a River site & fish here. Along the Chama River in the mountains of northern New Mexico, 6 miles from Colorado. RV sites are large with 50 amp full hookups & pull-thru. ADA bathhouse. Free WI-FI.
More Activities & Information
San Luis Valley Local Area Map
• San Juan Skyway • Santa Fe Trail • Silver Thread Scenic Byway • South Platte River Trail • Top of the Rockies • Trail of the Ancients • Trail Ridge Road • Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic Drive • West Elk Scenic Loop
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