La Plata County, part of Colorado's Southwest/Four Corners Region, has
been home to several native nations. 
The
Anasazi (the Ancient Ones) lived on the mesas until about 600
years ago. The Ute Mountain and Southern Ute tribes, part of the
Shoshonean family, now occupy reservation lands in the area surrounding
Durango, and play an important role in the community.
This area was once the hub of an
extensive prehistoric civilization. Just west of Durango, within an
hour's drive, are several important archaeological sites. Mesa Verde
National Park preserves the remains of a thousand-year-old culture that
lived on the mesa and built elaborate stone cities in sheltered canyon
caves. You can explore the ruins and view exhibits at the Visitors'
Center and Museum. 
Within
the national park you will find a motor lodge, several restaurants, and
a campground.
The Navajo Trail, U.S. Highway 160,
traversing the Forest from east to west is the shortest route from Los
Angeles to Chicago. Along this scenic route are the towns of Cortez,
Mancos, Durango, Bayfield, and Pagosa Springs. Dolores, Dove Creek,
Rico, and Silverton are other towns within or adjacent to the Forest.
The San Juan Skyway wanders 236 miles on a journey from towering
mountains and alpine forests to the rolling vistas and ancient ruins of
Indian country. Other scenic drives in the Pagosa area offer spectacular
vistas.
Any
number of trips and variations are possible within the Weminuche
Wilderness. Many take the narrow gauge train from Durango to Needleton,
and then hike about five miles up Needle Creek to Chicago Basin, a truly
spectacular area of rugged peaks including those over 14,000 feet.
Another popular trip is to follow the Los Pinos River Trail from
Vallecito Reservoir to scenic Emerald Lake. Pack trips by horseback are
available at many resorts and dude ranches scattered throughout the
Forest. Arrangements for horseback trips or packing in your supplies and
equipment can be made through local outfitters, or by inquiry through
the Durango, Cortez, Valleczto, or Pagosa springs Chambers of Commerce.
Numerous
campgrounds and picnic sites are scattered throughout the county.
Downhill skiing opportunities are available in the winter at Wolf Creek
pass near Pagosa Springs and Purgatory Ski area between Silverton and
Durango. The Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Indian Reservations, as well
as Mesa Verde National Park with its well known cliff dwellings, are
located near the southern San Juan National Forest boundary. So come on,
wherever you go on your travels, remember, Colorado's La Plata County is
waiting for you!
