Southwest Treasures Newsletter- Celebrating the diversity, magic, mystery, culture and history of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah!

August 1, 2025

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An Easy Hike for the Whole Family

This adventure offers something special in every season, inviting you to step outside and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors.

It's also the perfect place for friends and family to get together plus give your body a good workout.

This first hike is easy, everyone can enjoy it.

From the parking lot, you hike on an easy 1/2 mile gravel and sometimes rocky path to a small grove of cottonwood trees. Along the way are breathtaking views of the Sand Dunes and the San Luis Valley.

If the elevation or incline is a little challenging, benches are all along the way so you can rest. Once at the grove of trees, if you are still feeling adventurous and the water is low, rock hopping is the only way over to the front of the falls.

The falls sit behind a rock opening through a dike left by a retreating glacier.

As dry as the San Luis Valley appears, there is water in “them thar hills.” Water flows year round at Zapata Falls and even in winter, when the falls partially freeze, this makes a perfect playground for ice climbers!

RV and Tent Camping Sites Available

The Zapata Falls Recreation Area is designated with the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area and now offers six day use picnic areas, as well as 25 RV and tent camping sites. Bathrooms are available in both areas.

South Zapata Lake

This second hike is a little longer and requires more stamina, but is well worth the time. So, if you are feeling energized and want to hike further in, South Zapata Lake trail will not disappoint. This trail intersects with the Zapata Falls trail and you can’t miss it.

From the intersection, it is about 4 miles away. Along the path, you’ll pass an old wooden cabin, aspen trees and more amazing scenery of the San Luis Valley.

However, if you decide to take this hike, be prepared and always carry water, food and rain gear as the weather has a tendency to change quickly.

Directions: Take Highway 159 North Toward the Great Sand Dunes National Park for 10.5 miles till you see the sign for Zapata Falls Recreation Area. Turn right and drive 3.6 miles to the day use area. There is plenty of parking.

Extend your adventure with a visit to the nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve—a memorable way to share the wonders of the San Luis Valley with visiting friends and family.

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If you're enjoying what you're discovering or want to dive deeper into learning about a specific destination or topic, just let me know—I'd love to help you explore further!