Standing at the top of a box canyon staring down at the Piedra River, the horizon around you rising and declining with near-endless mountain views, it’s hard not to feel like you’re a million miles away from anything. But from that magical spot, you’re only a stone’s throw from the remarkable Piedra River Trail, where you’ll wander along the river to your heart’s content.
From that same spot, it’s just minutes to Williams Creek Reservoir. This gorgeous lake has some of the most desirable campgrounds, fishing, and water sports opportunities in the area. On the way there, check out Piedra Falls, which greets you with a thunderous roar that somehow drowns out the noise.
When adventure finally requires sustenance, you’re just a half an hour away from restaurants in town eager for you to share your stories. This place exists here, and we want to share it with you.
When a Small Town Feels Like Broadway
In Pagosa, we love our theater. Thingamajig Theatre Company at the Pagosa Center for the Arts is a year-round professional theatre company that hosts and houses top acting talent from across the country. An active and varied calendar often allows guests to see a variety of plays and performances during their visit. This summer season, they’re presenting Company, Come From Away, and Fiddler on the Roof.
Our own community theatre, Curtains Up Pagosa, shows off the talent of local actors and musicians. We might be a small town, but we’re big on talent, and these performances let residents show it. This month, they’re presenting School of Rock. Pagosa might be a long way from Broadway, but with the quality and quantity of theatre options here, you might think you’re only just off of it.
Rodeos Keep it Country
In a town that has lived long enough to see the “Wild West”, you can guarantee that there have been rodeos since long before we kept records of them. In 1949, Pagosa had its first annual Red Ryder Roundup Rodeo, and this year marks its 76th year of bronc busting, calf roping, and bull riding fun. Also in the lineup is the Mutton Bustin’ event, a beloved local favorite that sees some of our rodeo stars aged six or younger riding sheep around the arena. The series begins July 2nd at 6pm, continues July 3rd at 6pm, and concludes on the 4th of July at 2pm.
This annual series isn’t the only opportunity to see incredible rodeo action. Every Thursday through July 23rd, the Pagosa Night Rodeo kicks up the dust with fast-paced equine and bovine action. All your favorite rodeo events are included, as well as an opportunity for kids to participate in the calf scramble! As exciting as the action is, don’t forget to look up and take in one of the better views in the area.
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