Pagosa Springs, located in the southwest corner of Colorado in the heart of the San Juan Mountain Range, holds an abundance of activities; for both families and the avid outdoor enthusiast alike. We are known for our incredible year-round outdoor adventures, but our charming small town has more to offer than just that. After your breathtaking hot air balloon ride with Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures, dive into these amazing experiences to complete your visit.
Exploring Pagosa Springs: Top Places to Visit
For outdoor adventure in Pagosa Springs, look no further than Wolf Creek Ski Area. In the winter, Wolf Creek serves as a winter playground for the skiing and outdoor enthusiast in a small, local setting. With trails for all abilities, cozy lodges and good food, it’s our favorite place outside of the hot air balloon! It’s no surprise that many of our top places to visit include waterfalls. Located around 15 miles East of Pagosa Springs at the base of Wolf Creek Pass is Treasure Falls. You can view the impressive 105 foot-tall falls from the parking area, or opt for a short ¼ mile hike to the observation area for even better views.
In town, be sure to take a walk-through downtown along the San Juan River Walk. Reservoir Hill, overlooking downtown, is a great place for year-round fun; the Four Corners Folk Festival and the Folk and Bluegrass Festival are hosted here, and the recreation area boasts miles of mountain biking and hiking trails as well as a disc-golf course. In the winter, many enjoy sledding here. Along with the plethora of outdoor activities, there are many opportunities for shopping. Make sure to check out Voormi, our local high-performance outdoor wear company.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants & Cafes in Pagosa Springs
At the end of the day, we are a small town, meaning our dining options are somewhat limited. Fear not, however, as it isn’t hard to find a uniquely local atmosphere, good food, and great beer at many of our local restaurants.
The best spot for après happy hour food and drinks would have to be Kip’s Grill, a long-time local favorite after enjoying a powder day at Wolf Creek. Looking for pizza? Look no further than our cozy local joint, Rosie’s Pizzeria, in uptown Pagosa Springs. If you’re craving a taste of Pagosa, especially craft beer, head over to Riff Raff on the Rio, where you’ll find an abundance of menu items and locally crafted beer made using geothermal power from Pagosa’s famous hot spring.
For those with a taste for steak, seafood, and pastas, City Hall Cafe and Grille has you covered. If you’re seeking a more refined dining experience, Alley House Grille is an excellent choice, while Meander Riverside Eatery offers a unique, farm-to-table experience with eclectic dining along the river.
As far as coffee is concerned, we have no shortage in Pagosa Springs! Uptown, Higher Grounds Coffee serves a wonderful selection of coffee and homemade pastries in a cozy cafe setting. Downtown, Bruin Coffee is a great choice for drive-through orders and homemade doughnuts. Finally, Root House Coffee + Shop, located along the river downtown, is a perfect spot to grab a coffee and a souvenir.
Where to Find the Best Views in Pagosa Springs
Colorado is known for its picturesque views and we surely don’t have a shortage of that in Pagosa Springs. For a sweeping view of our valley, encapsulated by the San Juan Mountain Range, take a drive up Wolf Creek Pass, as long as conditions are safe for you and your vehicle. The Wolf Creek Valley Overlook, located around mile marker 162.5 on Wolf Creek Pass (Highway 160) is truly beautiful. For views of the infamous Pagosa Peak and the Weminuche Wilderness area, take a drive down Piedra Road (CR 600). The entire drive is breath-taking. The road eventually dead ends into the Weminuche Wilderness and William’s lake, where you are surrounded by nearly 360 degree views of the San Juan Mountains. From nearly anywhere in town, you will be able to see Pagosa Peak out your window; this might be our favorite part of living here!
Relax and Unwind: Hot Springs & Spas in Pagosa Springs
The hot springs are perhaps the most famous part of Pagosa Springs. We are known for having the deepest natural spring in the world! The water is known for its distinct smell, as well as the healing benefits due to the plethora of natural minerals. The Springs Resort is nestled in the heart of downtown, along the San Juan River. Many guests will switch between the hot pools and cold river for a cold plunge effect, and during the winter-time, the resort and town seem like they came straight out of a hallmark Christmas movie. The resort boasts an impressive 25 pools, with a complete resort expansion in 2025, adding 28 new pools!
The resort has many options for room choices from their classic inn-style rooms all the way up to luxury condos and suites. The “O” suite, lovingly named for The Spring’s most famous guest, Oprah Winfrey, includes its own private sauna. As a guest, enjoy 24-hour access and soaking privileges to the hot springs pools. The resort also includes a multitude of activities and events such as a full-service spa and wellness center, fitness classes, live music, and shopping. If you aren’t interested in staying at the resort, day passes to the pools are available for purchase as well as spa packages. Take time to walk along the river, and you will also find various natural and free to use pools!
Adventure Awaits: Outdoor Activities and Trails in Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities that showcase the beauty of the San Juan Mountains year-round. Start your day with a magical hot air balloon ride. Curious about the journey? Check out our guide to see what awaits you in the skies.
In the summer, enjoy rafting or tubing on the San Juan River, which flows through the heart of downtown—perfect for fun with the whole family. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails at Reservoir Hill Park or Turkey Springs, while hikers will love the breathtaking views along the Piedra Falls trail, a short one-mile out-and-back path leading to a stunning waterfall. For a more challenging adventure, try the Four Mile Falls hike, which offers a picturesque 3-mile trek (or 6-mile round trip) to a beautiful waterfall at the mountain’s base. Climbing enthusiasts will find paradise on the Piedra River Trail, with trad and bolted routes of varying difficulty levels.
In the winter, Pagosa transforms into a snowy playground. Hit the slopes at Wolf Creek Ski Area, known for its powder and trails for all skill levels. For cross-country skiing, Cloman Park provides scenic trails perfect for a peaceful glide. Families can enjoy dog sledding with San Juan Sled Dogs, an exciting adventure for all ages. And if you’re looking for a unique experience, Buckaroos offers horse-drawn sleigh rides that are magical in the winter months.
Whether it’s summer or winter, there’s always something to explore in Pagosa Springs. From hiking and biking to skiing and tubing, your next adventure is waiting!
Plan Your Perfect Day in Pagosa Springs
With so much to see and do, Pagosa Springs is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, soaking in the famous hot springs, or savoring a delicious meal, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you. Start your day with a magical hot air balloon ride and create memories you’ll cherish forever. With Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures, your perfect Pagosa Springs adventure begins in the sky.