South Fork Area - Southwest Colorado
The South Fork Area is where the South Fork of the Rio Grande joins the main body of the Rio Grande. Situated at the western edge of the San Luis Valley, it is one of the biggest intermountain valleys in the world. Since the late 1880s until just recently, South Fork, at 8,250', has been a logging and lumbering community.
Colorado's upper Rio Grande from the Rio Grande Reservoir above Creede through Wagon Wheel Gap and South Fork to Del Norte is "a high-country angler's paradise...an undiscovered paradise," according to American Angler, the magazine of fly fishing and fly tying. The Rio Grande between South Fork and Del Norte has been designated Gold Medal trout water, which means it offers the greatest potential for trophy trout fishing success in Colorado.
The area, at the foot of Wolf Creek Pass with its deep-power ski resort, is near numerous, year-round recreational possibilities. Whether you hike it or drive it, the surrounding mountains have deer, elk, grouse, ptarmigan, bighorn sheep, snowshoe rabbits, and even an occasional bear, bobcat or cougar!
The South Fork area includes Del Norte, first inhabited by the Folsom Peoples 10,000 years ago. They were followed by the Anasazi, Pueblos, Kiowas, Navajos and Apaches, which led the way for a rich history of Spanish inhabitants. Today, mining, farming and ranching flourish and are the mainstays of the local economy. Del Norte is known for a moderate high desert climate. Downtown Del Norte includes the famous Historic Windsor Hotel as well as shopping and dining facilities.
Travel a little way and visit the old mining town of Summitville. This is the home of the old Frenchman's Treasure tale. The story tells of 300 men coming from France who mined a mountain of gold, yet many died from natural disasters, Indian attacks, and possible Spanish attacks. The French hid the mountain of gold. Only one returned to France with the map leading to the location of the gold. Some believe it was found, yet others continue to hunt for it. Also travel the Silver Thread Scenic Byway beginning at South Fork, continuing through Wagon Wheel Gap and Creede, ending at Lake City.
is near: Del Norte, Pagosa Springs & Wagon Wheel Gap
South Fork Area Featured Advertisers
A full service ski shop and sporting goods store in South Fork, minutes to Wolf Creek Ski Area. Ski & snowboard rentals, fishing tackle, snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals. Fishing & Hunting licenses.
Sales & Parts. Mobile Service. On Highway 160, just east of South Fork. See our Park Models. New & used RVs in stock: Lance Truck Campers, Keystone, Forest River, Pilgrim, Neway & Heartland models.
Near South Fork, Alamosa, Creede, Wolf Creek Ski Area. Cabins with fireplaces, decks overlook 3/4 mile of private stocked river frontage. Pet friendly. FREE WI-FI. RV full hookups. Riverside tent sites. HOT TUB.
All South Fork Area Advertisers
ADVENTURE SPORTS RENTALS in South Fork: Skis, boards, bikes, rafts, Jeeps, and more! Top quality gear at a great price with an experienced, professional staff. Open year-round, 7 days a week!
European-style chalets, ideal for a family vacation and romantic couples retreat. Experience year round fun with fishing ponds, river frontage, Wolf Creek Ski Area, and snowmobile trails all near South Fork.
Near South Fork this elegantly appointed B&B, in a beautiful riverside setting with five themed guest rooms, including a honeymoon suite with a jetted whirlpool tub. Golf, romance & wedding packages.
Halfway between South Fork and Creede at Wagon Wheel Gap. Vacationer's paradise for fishermen, hunters, skiers, hikers, photographers. Hosted by the Philbern family since 1976. Best HOME cooking.
Serving South Fork for over 30 years. Cozy rustic cabins updated with modern amenities to 4-bedroom vacation homes with all the extras. Affordable rates. Enjoy world class skiing, fishing, hiking and biking.
On the east edge of South Fork. Cabins are rustic, nostalgically attractive & cozy with a touch of elegance. Most are equipped with satellite TV, free WI-FI, kitchen, and rock fireplace. Big RV 50amp full hookups.
1, 2 & 3 bedroom cabins with kitchens & fireplaces plus RV sites along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway (Highway 149) between Creede and South Fork in Wagon Wheel Gap. Dogs Welcome!
A full service ski shop and sporting goods store in South Fork, minutes to Wolf Creek Ski Area. Ski & snowboard rentals, fishing tackle, snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals. Fishing & Hunting licenses.
Near South Fork, offering Rustic Elegance, Year Round Beauty and Recreation. Family getaways, reunions, corporate retreats, special events, golf, skiing, rafting, horseback riding, boarding and more.
Year 'Round Destination. Located at the foot of the beautiful Wolf Creek Pass where the South Fork joins the Rio Grande River. Modern 2 bedroom furnished log cabins with fully equipped kitchens. FREE WI-FI.
Modern lodge rooms, cabins and vacation apartment in San Juan Mountains in the town of South Fork near fishing, golfing, hiking, hunting, cross-country & downhill skiing, and snowmobiling. Ski packages.
Everything for your fly-fishing needs in Creede & South Fork. Talk to our friendly staff, we pride ourselves in customer service & knowledge. Guided fly-fishing float & wade trips. Lessons & rentals available.
Along a golf course, near the Rio Grande River in South Fork these beautifully furnished 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom townhomes have large kitchens, gas grills, satellite TVs, propane fireplaces & internet access.
Near South Fork, Alamosa, Creede, Wolf Creek Ski Area. Cabins with fireplaces, decks overlook 3/4 mile of private stocked river frontage. Pet friendly. FREE WI-FI. RV full hookups. Riverside tent sites. HOT TUB.
A traditional family atmosphere just east of South Fork with 11 of its' RV sites along the Rio Grande River with fly-fishing. Stay for one night, a week, or a month! WI-FI is available in the comfort of your RV.
Between South Fork and Creede on Highway 149. Cabins are open all year with Satellite TV, Free WI-FI and pets welcome. Spacious SEASONAL full hookup RV sites. Laundry on-site. Discounted ski tickets.
Getaway to the Silver Thread Scenic Byway -- South Fork is famous for fishing, rafting, hiking, hunting, biking, golf, wildlife, photography, skiing, snowmobiling, scenic/historic driving tours and much more.
Planning to spend time in the Rio Grande National Forest on an ATV or snowmobile, we are the only AUTHORIZED Arctic Cat dealer within 100 miles of South Fork with sales, parts, services and rentals.
Bordered by Rio Grande National Forest, close to South Fork. Perfect for a honeymoon, mountain retreat, or family reunions. 1-3 bedroom log cabins, newly remodeled lodge rooms and full hookup RV sites.
In Del Norte between South Fork and Alamosa. Friendly and quiet, big rigs welcome - full hookup sites are 50 feet pull-thrus with room for double slideouts. Trout Fishing on the Rio Grande River right here!
RV Sales, Service & Rentals
Sales & Parts. Mobile Service. On Highway 160, just east of South Fork. See our Park Models. New & used RVs in stock: Lance Truck Campers, Keystone, Forest River, Pilgrim, Neway & Heartland models.
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South Fork Area Maps
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