Pagosa Springs

"Pagosa" is a Ute Indian name given to the hot mineral springs renowned for their healing qualities. Modern day Pagosa Springs is located along Highway 160, about 25 miles west of the Continental Divide and Wolf Creek Pass, one of the highest highway passes in Colorado. For many years, visitors to Pagosa Springs were pass-through travelers on their way to other regional destinations. However, the spectacular mountain scenery increasingly captures travelers, a phenomenon now called "amenity migration" in which new residents lured to the area were visitors or vacationers initially. Many new migrants are retirees and alternative health care providers.
The San Juan National Forest, which the Chamber of Commerce's Web site describes as "our most prized possession," is adjacent to town and surrounds it on three sides. Nearby are two wildernesses, the Weminuche and South San Juan. Many residents and visitors to Pagosa Springs seek a wide range of outdoor experiences. Other prime visitor attractions include the mineral hot springs in the center of town, Chimney Rock Archeological Area, the Wildlife Park, Navajo Lake, Williams Creek Reservoir, area rivers and waterfalls, and the Fred Harmon Museum.

Pagosa and Archuleta County have experienced some of the fastest growth in Colorado, increasing in population from some 5,000 residents to 9,000 during the 1990s. Reaction to the growth has been demonstrated by attempts of many residents to actively participate in county and national forest planning. As with other communities confronted by growth in the region, there is a strong desire to maintain a sense of community pride, the beautiful natural environment, and the quality recreation opportunities. Generally, the community cautiously welcomes expansion of the tourism economy, but while also maintaining quality and sustainable experiences and without degrading opportunities (Office of Community Services, 2000, Four Corners Gateway Initiative Tourism Assessment Report for Colorado and New Mexico).