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Vallecito Lake

Summer Hotspot or Winter Wonderland?

Elevation 8,000

While the mention of Vallecito Lake conjures up images of fishing, boating and endless splashes, we found that it has so much more to offer.

We fully intended this year to use Vallecito Lake Colorado (just outside of Bayfield) as homebase. Only 23 miles from Durango and a short one hour drive from Pagosa Springs we had come up with the perfect plan.

We arrived in late December. Greeted by the best cabin hosts any family could ask for, they quickly helped us get settled in.

Our original plans to spend most of our time in the outlying cities was re-evaluated for this trip. There was so much to see and do on the shores that we decided to spend a couple of days checking it out.

(click here for details on this family favorite)

Vallecito Lake Colorado Cabins

Vallecito Lake is surrounded by miles and miles of pure, untarnished beauty in the midst of the San Juan National Forest. We quickly came to realize this was not just any lake. This was a year round vacation Hot Spot. Vallecito Lake was proving to be a Winter Wonderland, fully capable of catering to the needs of any family.

Endless Winter Activies

Vallecito has a huge offering of Winter Adventure.With everything from Skiing, Fishing, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing and Sledding to just Hiking around the lake trails, there is no shortage of things to do. With the help of our hosts, we discovered one of the areas most amazing tributes, "The Tour of Carvings". (click here for detailed information on this must see)

Great Dining on the Shore

I was genuinely surprised to find such great places to eat. Before dining here, I had ever heard of "Broasted Chicken". All I can say is "YUM". We found a little restaurant at the shore that offered a wonderful menu, we ate till we were miserably full.

Summer Vacation Paradise

We were so taken with the family atmosphere of Vallecito Lake that we had decided to check it out again during the Summer season. Vallecito is one of the most beautiful bodies of water within the State of Colorado. The activities they offer are plentiful.

Fishing - Trout, Salmon and Pike. Need a fishing license? Stop by the General Store, they will be glad to help you out.

Horseback Riding

Hiking

Boating - Pontoon, Kayak, Canoe and Fishing Boats

Affordable Lodging At It's Finest

We found the lodging options to be extremely affordable which is a major incentive. With the Friendly nature of this wonderful lake it's no surprise that finding a great place to stay is a breeze. While they proudly display some of the most wonderful cabins in Colorado there are lots of other family friendly places to stay. (click here for an in depth look at some great lodging options)

Vallecito is definitely a family favorite for us. You could spend an entire vacation, never leaving the lake area.

Nearby Attractions

Should you decide to venture out into nearby cities we suggest you check these out

Durango - About 23 miles from Vallecito Lake. Home of the Durango-Silverton Train, unbelievable shopping and dining to please any palette.

Pagosa Springs - Some of the best healing Hot Springs around. This is a great destination for Rest and Relaxation.

Durango Mountain Resort - pretty much a city unto itself. Plan on spending the entire day on the slopes.

Return From Vallecito Lake to Your Family Colorado Vacation Home

Nearby Cities

Bayfield - 15 Miles

Durango - 23 Miles

Pagosa Springs - 54 Miles

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