Sometimes, there is no destination, and that provides the freedom to truly appreciate the beauty, the history and the culture of Pagosa Country. Sure, you can stand outside on a main street and gaze at the peaks of the San Juan Mountains that surround you, listening to the San Juan River as it rolls by. And if that’s all you choose to do, you’ve done well.
Perhaps, however, your interest was piqued. “What else is out there? What views, what wonders, lie just behind the mountain?”
You don’t have to be a member of the explorer’s club to find out.
Much of this incredible natural wonder can be observed from the comfort of a conventional vehicle. However, one must be warned: Just because the car may be comfortable does not mean the driving conditions are always easy.
Before taking a drive of high-altitude discovery, know that high-mountain driving offers hazards as well as unforgettable views; weather conditions are liable to change in the blink of an eye. While most of the roads recommended for the tours listed here are all-weather gravel roads, conditions can vary. Some roads require four-wheel-drive vehicles; many will test your driving skills and courage.
Go prepared. A San Juan National Forest map, available at the Pagosa Ranger District, is a benefit.
Excellent scenic vantage areas are located along all routes. Many of the trips are in remote areas with little traffic, so plan accordingly. Water, blankets, a GPS system (or a map and compass for those who prefer to remain old school), a full sack of snacks and leaving an itinerary with someone else is highly recommended.
Check road conditions and check for closures before heading out; call the Pagosa Ranger District at (970) 264-2268.
Motor Vehicle Use Map
The San Juan National Forest provides a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) that identifies all designated roads and trails that are open to wheeled motorized travel on the Pagosa Ranger District. The map is the legal document used to enforce travel rules. It does not identify nonmotorized recreational routes. It is the responsibility of the motor vehicle user to acquire the current MVUM.
The map is free, district specific and available electronically at fs.usda.gov/main/sanjuan/maps-pubs, or paper maps are available at San Juan National Forest offices during operating hours.
Forest maps and MVUM’s are also available for purchase and download to use via Avenza Maps™, a free mobile app that enables users to navigate in real time across the national forest using official forest maps as the background.
You can also check out the Interactive Visitor Map by visiting fs.usda.gov/sanjuan and clicking “Maps & Publications” in the left menu. For more information, please contact the Pagosa Ranger District at (970) 264-2268.