The Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area is the cradle of Colorado's earliest settlement. Hispano, Anglo and Native American cultures interacted in the area.

Spanning more than 3,000 square miles,the SdCNHA includes the counties of Conejos, Costilla, and Alamosa, the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, the Baca National Wildlife Refuge, the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge and the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Rich in history, religion, culture, and bio-diversity, the area preserves a special place in out nation's history where the villages and lifestyles of some of America's earliest Spanish settlements still exist alongside newer railroad communities.

The wetlands of Baca NWR and the tallest sand dunes of North America in the Great Sand Dunes National Park demarcate the northern boundary. Mountain ranges, Sangre de Cristos to the east and San Juans to the west, flank the study area.The southern border is defined by the Colorado-New Mexico border. Congress designated the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area in March 2009 in recognition of the rich natural resources, variety of recreational opportunities, and unparalleled history of the San Luis Valley.

The Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area provides year round recreational opportunities. Hike, fish, ski, boat and camp in the great outdoors.  Ride scenic trains, attend a crane festival or early iron festival.  Visit the event calendar for a list of activities.

Year round activities. Visit the event calendar for a list of activities

Fees: Many activities are free. Others have entrance fees. Please contact specific locations for details.

Accessibility varies by location and event.

Many locations are pet friendly. Please contact specific locations or events for details.