Our stay was over July 4th week and this little town was bustling! If you have ever seen "Doc Hollywood" movie this town has a small town feel like that! We loved that the San Juan River cuts right through town. During the day locals and visitors alike were jumping in inner tubes and floating down the river, not minding the cold water and laughing all the way! An old timey carnival was set up across the river and the little downtown was bustling with sight seers. July 4th morning was just like out of the movies. Town folk and visitors lining the Main St. by 9:00 am with anything they could find to sit on for the towns annual July 4th Parade. We couldn't help but enjoy the view out the window of the well known local diner, The Rose, eating omelettes the size of Texas. I think the whole town was there anxiously awaiting their towns patriotic event. It moved us realizing most places don't have this closeness to their neighbors like these people do. Something is to be said about this laid back way of life. No need to get in a hurry; the locals call it "Pagosa time!" There are many good restaraunts surprisingly in this town. Our favorite was The Alley House Grille. They had mouthwatering steaks and fine seafood. The food presentation was wonderful. A must on a visit into Pagosa. Also recommend JJ's Riverwalk Restaraunt ; you can dine outside by the San Juan River in the summer- we enjoyed watching a fly fisherman as we ate. There are tons of jeep, hike and bike trails in the area. You won't be bored if you are an outdoorsman. Best car ride: we loved the awe inspiring views out the windshield as we drove north down Piedra Rd. Great family hike where the pavement changes to dirt; Piedra Trailhead. Don't stop there though. Our favorite car trip was to Williams Lake! From Hwy 160 , head north on Piedra Rd. After about 7 miles, it becomes 30 miles of postcard beauty!!! The scenery is unbelievable. You can also stop and hike another easy trail to Piedra Falls on the way to the lake. Kids will love this trail! Keep a fishing pole and a cooler at all times in your car. After a picnic by the lake, we fished and had tons of fun ATVing the afternoon in this area! Great fishing in the many lakes around Pagosa Springs. Plan your days well and this town offers much outdoor beauty and recreation for the entire family. We loved it so much we will go back many times again! It is truly a hidden gem. If you like small towns and friendly folks, visit Pagosa Springs while in Southwest Colorado!
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.