52 Weeks of Fun

Not Just Destination Finders, But Destination Storytellers

Lake Vallecito Chamber of Commerce

Vallecito Lake Chamber of Commerce

Local Attractions

In the aftermath of the 2002 Missionary Ridge fire, local artist Chad Haspels began to create carvings that represent the community’s rebirth despite such devastating loss from the fire. He began with a carving of firefighter Alan Wyatt, who lost his life while battling the fire. At the very top of each carving, Haspels made sure to include a special dedication to the 2002 fire by including a visual of fire. Visitors can take a Tour of Carvings when visiting Bayside. Each individual carving depicts a unique representation of the Vallecito Lake community’s efforts to restore the valley.

Located in the Southwestern part of the state just 18 miles from Durango, Vallecito provides a perfect base for enjoying the Four Corners area and its many wonders. This hidden jewel, located in the southwestern corner of Colorado, is in the San Juan National Forest, which encompasses about 1.8 million acres, all open to recreational opportunities.

Enjoy nature at its best with bears, deer, turkey, elk, eagles, and more all around the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Late fall brings about a snagging season in Colorado for kokanee salmon. Vallecito Lake supports all manner of boating from Paddle Boarding to Power Boating. Bring your own and use the public launch ramp. And the Vallecito Lake Chamber of Commerce sponsors an ice fishing tournament on Vallecito Lake each February.

Whether it’s tree-filled mountains or red deserts, lake boating or riverside fishing, hiking, riding biking, skiing or boarding, adventurers will find it all right outside their door and Bayfield sits at the center of it all.

Durango
carvingsatvallecito.org

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Bayfield

Spanish explorer Juan Rivera and his troops dubbed the San Juan National Forest's Animas River as “El Rio de las Animas Perdidas en Purgatorio,” or “the River of the Lost Souls in Purgatory” because the region was bleak and void of the treasures.

Upcoming Events

Durango

The Narrow Gauge Railroad recreates historical runs between Durango and Silverton.
San Juan National Forest

The high peaks of the Rocky Mountains offer a stark contrast to the desert mesas, all part of the San Juan National Forest.
Lake Vallecito Chamber of Commerce

Bayside’s Mill Street offers restaurants and shopping for those visiting the town.
Lake Vallecito Chamber of Commerce

Local artist Chad Haspels created carvings to represent the Bayside’s resiliency following the devastating Missionary Ridge Fire in 2002.

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