Monte Vista, Spanish for Mountain View, is a historic, lively city located in the heart of the San Luis Valley. Also home to the Pecosa Inn, Monte Vista is full of activities to suit every taste. In March, the annual migration of Sandhill and endangered Whooping cranes can be seen at the Annual Crane Festival. During April and May spring planting is in full swing for crops including: potatoes, carrots, oats, wheat, barley, canola and alfalfa. Visitors are welcome to tour the area farms, just stop at the Information Center for directions. July kicks off with the 8th Annual Farm & Ranch Heritage Days and the San Luis Valley Outdoors Sports Show. This 2 day antique farm equipment show and antique tractor pull enjoyed by young and old alike. The annual Harvest Festival is held in late October to celebrate the agricultural heritage of the San Luis Valley. No matter what time of year you visit Monte Vista, you will always find fun and stimulating activities for you and your family. All within an hour drive.

• Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce - Phone: 800.562.7085 | Visit Website

Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge was established by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission in 1953 to provide a much needed habitat for wildlife, particularly waterfowl, in the San Luis Valley. The refuge is a major stopover for migrating greater sandhill cranes moving between their wintering area around Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico and breeding grounds in the northern United States and southern Canada. Up to 20,000 cranes pass through in the spring and again in the fall. At present, several hundred elk may be seen on the refuge seeking winter food and sanctuary from hunting pressure on nearby public lands. In the San Luis Valley, desert and wetlands exist together side by side. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge ensures wildlife a continuing place in this unique environment. The refuge may be viewed along a 4 mile auto tour and from county roads open year round.

• Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge - Phone: 719.589.4021 | Visit Website

Thunder Valley Speedway
Thunder Valley Speedway is located 4 miles West of Hwy 17 on 5 North just below the pristine view of the 14,000 ft peak, Mt. Blanca. Thunder Valley Speedway is the Highest Altitude track in the nation at 7600 feet. This is a 3/8 Dirt oval with slight banking, it also has a motocross track for all to enjoy. Thunder Valley is the place to be on Saturday Night!

• Thunder Valley Speedway- Phone: 719.852.4710 | Visit Website