Exploring Pagosa Springs: A Guide to Local Parks and Attractions

Exploring Pagosa Springs: A Guide to Local Parks and Attractions

Pagosa Springs, nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offers a plethora of parks and attractions that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax amidst nature’s beauty. Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit spots in our charming town.

Reservoir Hill Park

Overlooking downtown Pagosa Springs, Reservoir Hill Park is a haven for hikers and bikers. With multiple trailheads accessible from the River Center, behind the Healing Waters Spa, and near the U.S. Post Office, visitors can explore miles of trails ranging from gentle paths to more challenging routes. The park also boasts an 18-hole disc golf course and a large meadow that hosts events like the Four Corners Folk Festival over Labor Day weekend. A wooden gazebo in the meadow is available for special occasions such as weddings or reunions. Restrooms are available on the hill.

Yamaguchi Park

Located on South 5th Street between Pagosa Springs High School and the San Juan River, Yamaguchi Park is a favorite among locals. The park features the Pagosa Skate Park, designed for skaters of all skill levels, and includes a full-sized bowl added by the Skaters Coalition for Concrete. Other amenities include a kayak and raft launching facility, two whitewater features, a playground, climbing boulder, outdoor basketball court, pump track for bicycles, soccer and softball fields, picnic areas, and a heated year-round restroom. An events and performance venue with electrical service is also available.

Town Park and Centennial Park

Situated at the southeast corner of U.S. 160 and Hot Springs Boulevard, Town Park connects to Centennial Park via the Riverwalk. Town Park offers a pirate ship-themed playground, climbing boulders, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a white-water feature in the adjacent river. Centennial Park stretches along the river and includes picnic tables, a pedestrian bridge connecting to The Springs Resort and Spa, and access to the Riverwalk that winds through the wetlands behind Town Hall and the Ross Aragon Community Center.

Cloman Park

For those seeking a more secluded experience, Cloman Park, located northwest of Pagosa Springs off Piedra Road at the end of Cloman Boulevard, offers an 18-hole disc golf course, hiking and biking trails, and groomed cross-country ski trails during the winter months. It’s an excellent spot for both summer and winter activities.

Hot Springs

No visit to Pagosa Springs is complete without experiencing the renowned hot springs. The town is home to three facilities: The Springs Resort & Spa, Healing Waters Resort, and Overlook Hot Springs Spa. Each offers a unique soaking experience, with multiple mineral-rich pools to choose from, providing relaxation and therapeutic benefits year-round.

Chimney Rock National Monument

History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Chimney Rock National Monument, where guided tours offer insights into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area over a thousand years ago. The site features more than 200 homes and ceremonial buildings, set against the backdrop of the iconic twin spires.

Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, history buff, or someone seeking relaxation, Pagosa Springs’ diverse parks and attractions offer something for everyone. So pack your gear, bring your curiosity, and explore all that our beautiful town has to offer.