San Luis Valley
San Luis Valley is a vast high-elevation basin spanning southern Colorado and northern New Mexico, where desert plains, alpine passes, and historic towns meet.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Southwestern U.S. |
| Subregion | Southern Rocky Mountain Front |
| Country | United StatesMexico |
| State | ColoradoNew Mexico |
| County | Alamosa CountyConejos CountyCostilla CountyHuerfano CountyRio Grande CountyAlbuquerque County |
| District | San Luis Valley |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 36.75 |
| Longitude | -105.9 |
| Maps |
7:15 PM LOCAL TIMESan Luis Valley is a large endorheic basin at approximately 2,100 meters (7,000 feet) elevation, enclosed by the Sawatch and San Juan mountain ranges. It extends roughly from Alamosa and Salida in the north to Antonito and the Rio Grande Gorge in the south. The valley’s floor is characterized by arid plains, salt flats, and irrigated agriculture, while its encircling high passes and canyon rims offer dramatic drop-offs and panoramic vistas. Key points of access include U.S. Highway 285, Colorado State Highway 17, and the historic Santa Fe Trail corridor. The region is notable for native Pueblo history, Río Grande trout fisheries, and outdoor activities across seasons — from springtime wildflowers and summer monsoons to fall foliage and winter snow on the surrounding peaks.
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