Attractions
Silver Thread Basecamp – Our Name Means Adventure
Our picturesque park sits at the beginning of Silver Thread Byway – a scenic drive of discovery that begins in South Fork and travels northerly toward Gunnison. This 117-mile stretch of byway boasts many 14,000+ foot summits, hot springs, waterfalls, wildlife, hiking trails, and a host of historically significant locations. So hop in your car and see the sights!
Experience the Silver Thread
South Fork Visitor Center
Start here to learn about the 2 million acres of national forest, natural wonders, waterfalls, and sand dunes that are coming up on your quest for adventure. Wow!
Coller State Wildlife Area
A premier place for bird watching. See Vireos, Towhees, Song Sparrows, and many others. Bighorn sheep, as well as golden and bald eagles, can also be seen along this stretch of highway.
Wheeler Geologic Area
Check out the striped cliffs, known as Palisades, on the east side of the river while on your way to see even more dramatic rock formations in the Wheeler Geologic Area. Hidden deep in the Rio Grande National Forest, the unusual volcanic landscape is so strange, it is often called ‘The City of Gnomes’.
Museums in Creede
A silver-mining boom town in the 1880s, historic Creede offers restaurants, quaint shops, a tour of the Last Chance Silver Mine, and an Underground Mining Museum!
Hiking in South Clear Creek Falls
Two Falls share the same name! One of the most impressive waterfalls in Colorado is only is only a half-mile round trip hike. Easy enough for kids and grownups. Learn more +
Windy Point Scenic Overlook
Treat the family to a superb view of the majestic mountain peaks surrounding Lake City. Colorado has 54 mountain peaks higher than 14,000 feet, and five of them can be seen from this Overlook. Don’t miss it!
Slumgullion Pass and Earthflow
Named for the many colors of root vegetables in a miner’s stew, the Slumgullion Earthflow is an 800-year-old, epically slow golden-colored mudslide that continues to shift the ground up to 21 feet a year, resulting in fir trees that grow at crazy angles.
Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa, near the college town of Gunnison, is the largest body of water in Colorado. Swim, sun yourself on the beaches, go boating, waterskiing, or fish for salmon.
More Adventures Near South Fork
Twin Pines Motorsports
Rent or buy ATVs, electric bikes, and Ski-Doos! Roar around the wilderness in style!
Rio Grande Golf Course & Club
A 72-Par, Championship 18-hole layout offers one-of-a-kind opportunities for all ages and abilities. Restaurant and Pro Shop too!
Revolution Rail Biking in Colorado
Pedal power alongside the Rio Grande. See spectacular scenery. You’ll never forget this ride!
Mountain Man Rafting
Half day river trips on the Upper Rio Grande are fun for the whole family. Rock climbing tours too!
Elk Heart Outfitters
Horseback trail rides in nearby Pagosa Springs – home of the world’s deepest hot springs. A real Colorado adventure!
Three Barrel Brewing Co
Enjoy handcrafted brews in nearby Del Norte, produced from San Luis Valley grown malt, local hops, and fresh mountain water. Dogs are welcome at beer tastings on the patio. Plus, hand-crafted root beer for kids.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe
Take a day trip to visit Colorado’s original inhabitants, the Utes – the reservation is only 93 miles away in Ignacio. Say Máykh (Hello) and experience their culture and history. Visit the museum, the fairgrounds, and the casino too!
What’s Happening?
Music festivals, car shows, farmers markets, roller skating and all kinds of fun stuff in South Fork, Creede, and Alamosa. Check the San Luis Valley Events Calendar.
Hungry?
Find great restaurants in South Fork! American food, pizza, Mexican, coffee shops, steaks, and BBQ. Dine in or bring your dinner back to Silver Thread Basecamp and enjoy your meal at your own picnic table under the stars.