Youth Orchestra Camp takes place July 27 – 31, 9am to noon at Pagosa Springs High School. Weekly or daily drop-in. $180 week/$60 daily

A full 5-day week where students should expect to learn music theory, instrumental music techniques, ensemble skills, audience and performance etiquette, classical, folk and bluegrass music! This camp is open to students from 8-18 years old and no previous instrumental experience is required. We will end the week with a performance in the high school auditorium.
​
We are seeking students who are interested in learning to play (or continuing to learn) violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, piano, guitar, ukulele, clarinet, flute, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, tuba, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium and percussion.

You can register using the QR code or the link in my bio. If you have any questions about accepted instruments or how to rent an instrument, please send an email to PaytonMcIntyre.music@gmail.com

Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUCwrAqFZt9TLiKj-5xbS6tzuMvYEop55u-o8taXN0Ns1JhQ/viewform

Youth Orchestra Camp takes place July 27 – 31, 9am to noon at Pagosa Springs High School. Weekly or daily drop-in. $180 week/$60 daily

A full 5-day week where students should expect to learn music theory, instrumental music techniques, ensemble skills, audience and performance etiquette, classical, folk and bluegrass music! This camp is open to students from 8-18 years old and no previous instrumental experience is required. We will end the week with a performance in the high school auditorium.
​
We are seeking students who are interested in learning to play (or continuing to learn) violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, piano, guitar, ukulele, clarinet, flute, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, tuba, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium and percussion.

You can register using the QR code or the link in my bio. If you have any questions about accepted instruments or how to rent an instrument, please send an email to PaytonMcIntyre.music@gmail.com

Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUCwrAqFZt9TLiKj-5xbS6tzuMvYEop55u-o8taXN0Ns1JhQ/viewform

Youth Orchestra Camp takes place July 27 – 31, 9am to noon at Pagosa Springs High School. Weekly or daily drop-in. $180 week/$60 daily

A full 5-day week where students should expect to learn music theory, instrumental music techniques, ensemble skills, audience and performance etiquette, classical, folk and bluegrass music! This camp is open to students from 8-18 years old and no previous instrumental experience is required. We will end the week with a performance in the high school auditorium.
​
We are seeking students who are interested in learning to play (or continuing to learn) violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, piano, guitar, ukulele, clarinet, flute, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, tuba, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium and percussion.

You can register using the QR code or the link in my bio. If you have any questions about accepted instruments or how to rent an instrument, please send an email to PaytonMcIntyre.music@gmail.com

Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUCwrAqFZt9TLiKj-5xbS6tzuMvYEop55u-o8taXN0Ns1JhQ/viewform

Youth Orchestra Camp takes place July 27 – 31, 9am to noon at Pagosa Springs High School. Weekly or daily drop-in. $180 week/$60 daily

A full 5-day week where students should expect to learn music theory, instrumental music techniques, ensemble skills, audience and performance etiquette, classical, folk and bluegrass music! This camp is open to students from 8-18 years old and no previous instrumental experience is required. We will end the week with a performance in the high school auditorium.
​
We are seeking students who are interested in learning to play (or continuing to learn) violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, piano, guitar, ukulele, clarinet, flute, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, tuba, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium and percussion.

You can register using the QR code or the link in my bio. If you have any questions about accepted instruments or how to rent an instrument, please send an email to PaytonMcIntyre.music@gmail.com

Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUCwrAqFZt9TLiKj-5xbS6tzuMvYEop55u-o8taXN0Ns1JhQ/viewform

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

PROGRAM DETAILS

This tour is offered on select Friday and Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the quiet off-hours of the Monument. This fun and casual 2-hour bird walk is led by a knowledgeable birding guide from the Weminuche Audubon Society. These outings will introduce you to the diverse community of birds that spend their summer at Chimney Rock National Monument. Your guide will help you identify various species and explain the unique adaptations that allow these birds to survive here. Birders of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Not recommended for young children.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Participants will be walking slowly on uneven terrain in the lower area of Chimney Rock; thus, no archaeological sites will be included on this tour. Good walking shoes are advised, along with plenty of water and sun protection—also bring those binoculars!

TICKETS

Check-in is at the Highway 151 entrance gate at the time stated below for each tour. Please adhere to the check-in timeline. The gate will be locked at the end of that time. Please note that the tour will begin promptly at the end of the check-in period, so it will not be possible to accommodate late arrivals. The fee is $20.00 for ages 13 and up, $10.00 for ages 5-12, and under 5 are free, and is considered a non-refundable and non-transferable donation.  Making a reservation through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to guarantee a spot for this tour. Recreation.gov charges a $1.00 reservation fee that is non-refundable. To ensure this tour is scheduled, reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of the tour.

This program is rarely at full capacity prior to the event, and we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. They will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must arrive during the specified check-in time frame. Tour tickets can be purchased directly from the guide with cash only. Note: if no one has signed up for the tour by online reservation within the allotted time frame, the tour will not run. In such a case, walk-ins will not be possible. Refunds will be issued only for canceled – not modified – tours/programs. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

The Chimney Rock Interpretive Association is excited to share a preview of our 2026 lecture season. This year’s programs will explore powerful stories of the Southwest — from Native rock art to pivotal moments in history and fascinating archaeological discoveries.

Mark your calendars:

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

David Bouquet: Southwestern Native Rock Art

Tuesday, June 23r, 2026

Andy Gulliford: The Native Americans of the Chimney Rock Area

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Jon Ghahate: The Pueblo Revolt

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

John Kappelman: The Dating Game: Archaeological Dating Methods

These engaging presentations will deepen your understanding of the people, science, and cultural heritage connected to Chimney Rock National Monument and the broader Southwest.

More details coming soon — but for now, save the dates and plan to join us for an inspiring 2026 season!

PROGRAM DETAILS

This tour is offered on select Friday and Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the quiet off-hours of the Monument. This fun and casual 2-hour bird walk is led by a knowledgeable birding guide from the Weminuche Audubon Society. These outings will introduce you to the diverse community of birds that spend their summer at Chimney Rock National Monument. Your guide will help you identify various species and explain the unique adaptations that allow these birds to survive here. Birders of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Not recommended for young children.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Participants will be walking slowly on uneven terrain in the lower area of Chimney Rock; thus, no archaeological sites will be included on this tour. Good walking shoes are advised, along with plenty of water and sun protection—also bring those binoculars!

TICKETS

Check-in is at the Highway 151 entrance gate at the time stated below for each tour. Please adhere to the check-in timeline. The gate will be locked at the end of that time. Please note that the tour will begin promptly at the end of the check-in period, so it will not be possible to accommodate late arrivals. The fee is $20.00 for ages 13 and up, $10.00 for ages 5-12, and under 5 are free, and is considered a non-refundable and non-transferable donation.  Making a reservation through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to guarantee a spot for this tour. Recreation.gov charges a $1.00 reservation fee that is non-refundable. To ensure this tour is scheduled, reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of the tour.

This program is rarely at full capacity prior to the event, and we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. They will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must arrive during the specified check-in time frame. Tour tickets can be purchased directly from the guide with cash only. Note: if no one has signed up for the tour by online reservation within the allotted time frame, the tour will not run. In such a case, walk-ins will not be possible. Refunds will be issued only for canceled – not modified – tours/programs. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Chimney Rock National Monument, recently designated an International Dark Sky Park, is a quiet, wonderful place to observe the night sky, far away from city lights and distracting noises. And at a lofty altitude of 7,200 feet, the Monument affords a beautiful night sky. Held one night each month, this program explores why people for generations have looked at the night sky in awe and wonder. It features discussions about the ancient Puebloans’ connection to the night sky, and how even today, people are fascinated with the dark sky visible from this special spot. Interactive talks cover constellations, galaxies, and observable planets, and their locations on each specific night. Bring binoculars for personal viewing as telescopes may or may not be available.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

At this altitude, nights begin to cool rapidly after sunset, so an appropriate jacket and other gear will allow you to be comfortable. A flashlight with a red lens covering is an added bonus. This is a “rain or shine” presentation. If weather is inclement, the program will be moved inside. Not recommended for children under 5.

TICKETS

Check-in is at the Highway 151 entrance gate at the time stated below for each tour. Please adhere to the check-in timeline. The gate will be locked at the end of that time. Please note that the tour will begin promptly at the end of the check-in period, so it will not be possible to accommodate late arrivals. The fee is $20.00 for ages 13 and up, $10.00 for ages 5-12, and under 5 are free, and is considered a non-refundable and non-transferable donation. Making a reservation through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to guarantee a spot for this tour. Recreation.gov charges a $1.00 reservation fee that is non-refundable. To ensure this tour is scheduled, reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of the tour.

This program is rarely at full capacity prior to the event, and we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. They will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must arrive during the specified check-in time frame. Tour tickets can be purchased at the Gift Shop. Note: if no one has signed up for the tour by online reservation within the allotted time frame, the tour will not run. In such a case, walk-ins will not be possible. No refunds will be issued for no-shows. Refunds will be issued only for cancelled – not modified – tours/programs.

Saturday, June 20: Check-in:  7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Program:   8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 18: Check-in:   7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Program:    8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 15: Check-in:   7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Program:    7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 12: Check-in:   7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Program:    7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

SJMA in conjunction with the US Forest Service, Pagosa and Bayfield Ranger Districts, is hosting educational geology hikes, free for the public, from May through October. These interpretive hikes, led and presented by geologists Dave Bouquet and Scott McAllister, will be in an area of the San Juan National Forest rich with evidence of earth’s geologic history from some of the area’s oldest metamorphic rocks, to Cretaceous seaways, to Tertiary volcanoes, to modern glacial deposits.

Volcanic Formation of the San Juan Mountains – Continental Divide Trail Hike

This time we will be “going high” to escape the summer heat.  Hike a short section of the famed Continental Divide Trail from the Lobo Overlook to picturesque Rock Lake.   Learn about the origin of the San Juan Mountains, created by the largest volcanic eruption by volume ever in North America.  Amazing views of the San Juans persist throughout the hike.

Trail Description: This is a more challenging hike, spanning an out and back distance of ~9 miles with ~1150 of net elevation gain.  We’ll also be consistently above 11,000 ft.  With stops to discuss the geology of the area, you can expect a time commitment of 5 hours.  Pack a lunch as we will be taking a break along the shore of Rock Lake.  We’ll be watching for thunderstorm activity and may need to cut the hike shorter if weather conditions dictate.

When: August 20, 2026 from 9am – 2pm

Where: Group will meet at the Lobo Overlook CDT trailhead behind the tall metal cell tower.  Just after passing the Wolf Creek Pass Continental Divide sign on Highway 160 (from PS), look to the left for a gravel road with a sign that says “Lobo Overlook”.  Follow the gravel road up the hill, turning right just before the end in the direction of the cell tower.  The CTD trailhead will be behind the tower.  If you go all the way to end (Lobo Overlook Parking Lot per Google), just back track a bit to the earlier turn off.  Note there is a restroom at the Lobo Overlook Parking Lot, but not at the trailhead.

What to Bring:

• Layers of cool and warm clothing
• Water (1/2 to 1 liter per hour)
• Sturdy, supportive footwear
• Lunch/snacks
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Hiking Daypack
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Camera

Cost: Free, $10 donation is greatly appreciated!

Please Note: Although pets are allowed in the national forest, we ask that pets be left at home as a courtesy to the other guests in the group.

Registration is required. Spaces limited to 25 attendees.

PROGRAM DETAILS

This tour is offered on select Friday and Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the quiet off-hours of the Monument. This fun and casual 2-hour bird walk is led by a knowledgeable birding guide from the Weminuche Audubon Society. These outings will introduce you to the diverse community of birds that spend their summer at Chimney Rock National Monument. Your guide will help you identify various species and explain the unique adaptations that allow these birds to survive here. Birders of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Not recommended for young children.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Participants will be walking slowly on uneven terrain in the lower area of Chimney Rock; thus, no archaeological sites will be included on this tour. Good walking shoes are advised, along with plenty of water and sun protection—also bring those binoculars!

TICKETS

Check-in is at the Highway 151 entrance gate at the time stated below for each tour. Please adhere to the check-in timeline. The gate will be locked at the end of that time. Please note that the tour will begin promptly at the end of the check-in period, so it will not be possible to accommodate late arrivals. The fee is $20.00 for ages 13 and up, $10.00 for ages 5-12, and under 5 are free, and is considered a non-refundable and non-transferable donation.  Making a reservation through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to guarantee a spot for this tour. Recreation.gov charges a $1.00 reservation fee that is non-refundable. To ensure this tour is scheduled, reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of the tour.

This program is rarely at full capacity prior to the event, and we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. They will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must arrive during the specified check-in time frame. Tour tickets can be purchased directly from the guide with cash only. Note: if no one has signed up for the tour by online reservation within the allotted time frame, the tour will not run. In such a case, walk-ins will not be possible. Refunds will be issued only for canceled – not modified – tours/programs. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

PROGRAM DETAILS

This tour is offered on select Friday and Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the quiet off-hours of the Monument. This fun and casual 2-hour bird walk is led by a knowledgeable birding guide from the Weminuche Audubon Society. These outings will introduce you to the diverse community of birds that spend their summer at Chimney Rock National Monument. Your guide will help you identify various species and explain the unique adaptations that allow these birds to survive here. Birders of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Not recommended for young children.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Participants will be walking slowly on uneven terrain in the lower area of Chimney Rock; thus, no archaeological sites will be included on this tour. Good walking shoes are advised, along with plenty of water and sun protection—also bring those binoculars!

TICKETS

Check-in is at the Highway 151 entrance gate at the time stated below for each tour. Please adhere to the check-in timeline. The gate will be locked at the end of that time. Please note that the tour will begin promptly at the end of the check-in period, so it will not be possible to accommodate late arrivals. The fee is $20.00 for ages 13 and up, $10.00 for ages 5-12, and under 5 are free, and is considered a non-refundable and non-transferable donation.  Making a reservation through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to guarantee a spot for this tour. Recreation.gov charges a $1.00 reservation fee that is non-refundable. To ensure this tour is scheduled, reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of the tour.

This program is rarely at full capacity prior to the event, and we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. They will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must arrive during the specified check-in time frame. Tour tickets can be purchased directly from the guide with cash only. Note: if no one has signed up for the tour by online reservation within the allotted time frame, the tour will not run. In such a case, walk-ins will not be possible. Refunds will be issued only for canceled – not modified – tours/programs. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

Chimney Rock National Monument, recently designated an International Dark Sky Park, is a quiet, wonderful place to observe the night sky, far away from city lights and distracting noises. And at a lofty altitude of 7,200 feet, the Monument affords a beautiful night sky. Held one night each month, this program explores why people for generations have looked at the night sky in awe and wonder. It features discussions about the ancient Puebloans’ connection to the night sky, and how even today, people are fascinated with the dark sky visible from this special spot. Interactive talks cover constellations, galaxies, and observable planets, and their locations on each specific night. Bring binoculars for personal viewing as telescopes may or may not be available.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

At this altitude, nights begin to cool rapidly after sunset, so an appropriate jacket and other gear will allow you to be comfortable. A flashlight with a red lens covering is an added bonus. This is a “rain or shine” presentation. If weather is inclement, the program will be moved inside. Not recommended for children under 5.

TICKETS

Check-in is at the Highway 151 entrance gate at the time stated below for each tour. Please adhere to the check-in timeline. The gate will be locked at the end of that time. Please note that the tour will begin promptly at the end of the check-in period, so it will not be possible to accommodate late arrivals. The fee is $20.00 for ages 13 and up, $10.00 for ages 5-12, and under 5 are free, and is considered a non-refundable and non-transferable donation. Making a reservation through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to guarantee a spot for this tour. Recreation.gov charges a $1.00 reservation fee that is non-refundable. To ensure this tour is scheduled, reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of the tour.

This program is rarely at full capacity prior to the event, and we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. They will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must arrive during the specified check-in time frame. Tour tickets can be purchased at the Gift Shop. Note: if no one has signed up for the tour by online reservation within the allotted time frame, the tour will not run. In such a case, walk-ins will not be possible. No refunds will be issued for no-shows. Refunds will be issued only for cancelled – not modified – tours/programs.

Saturday, June 20: Check-in:  7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Program:   8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 18: Check-in:   7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Program:    8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 15: Check-in:   7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Program:    7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 12: Check-in:   7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Program:    7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

SJMA in conjunction with the US Forest Service, Pagosa and Bayfield Ranger Districts, is hosting educational geology hikes, free for the public, from May through October. These interpretive hikes, led and presented by geologists Dave Bouquet and Scott McAllister, will be in an area of the San Juan National Forest rich with evidence of earth’s geologic history from some of the area’s oldest metamorphic rocks, to Cretaceous seaways, to Tertiary volcanoes, to modern glacial deposits.

“Marine Fossils at 8000 ft?” – Coyote Hill Loop Trail

Walk through Ponderous Pine meadows to a beautiful overlook of Pagosa Peak.  During this hike, we’ll go off trail and climb to some ridge-forming limestone outcrops in the Mancos formation that contain marine fossils and numerous calcite crystals.  Learn why this area was covered by an inland sea for 30 million years during the Cretaceous period.

Trail Description: This is an ~5 loop hike with approximately 450 ft of gentle elevation gain.   With stops to discuss the geology of the area, you can expect a time commitment of 4 hours.  Pack a lunch or snack as we will be taking a break from the overview stop.

When: September 17, 2026 from 9am – 1pm

Where: Group will meet at the Coyote Hill Trailhead, ~6 miles north of Pagosa Springs on County Road 600 (Piedra Road).  Note on Google maps and other sites, this is called the Coyote Hill Trailhead (on the right) and not to be confused with the Turkey Springs trailhead just before it on the left.  Note that neither of these trailhead parking lots have a restroom.

What to Bring:

• Layers of cool and warm clothing
• Water (1/2 to 1 liter per hour)
• Sturdy, supportive footwear
• Lunch/snacks
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Hiking Daypack
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Camera

Cost: Free, $10 donation is greatly appreciated!

Please Note: Although pets are allowed in the national forest, we ask that pets be left at home as a courtesy to the other guests in the group.

Registration is required. Spaces limited to 25 attendees.

Tech Time: One-on-one help from a librarian with basic questions about computer, smartphones, tablets, etc. Bring your device, chargers, and passwords. Thursdays, 2-4 PM.

Library Open:

Monday: 9 am – 6 pm
Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm
Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm
Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

SJMA in conjunction with the US Forest Service, Pagosa and Bayfield Ranger Districts, is hosting educational geology hikes, free for the public, from May through October. These interpretive hikes, led and presented by geologists Dave Bouquet and Scott McAllister, will be in an area of the San Juan National Forest rich with evidence of earth’s geologic history from some of the area’s oldest metamorphic rocks, to Cretaceous seaways, to Tertiary volcanoes, to modern glacial deposits.

“Golden Aspens and Geology of the South San Juans” – V Rock Trail Hike

This time we will be climbing through endless stands of golden aspens to an amazing series of overlooks at the top of the V Rock trail. Along the way, the guide will describe how the San Jan Mountains were created and how this southern part of the range differs from main body of the San Juans.

Trail Description: This is an ~5 mile out and back hike with approximately 1100 ft of elevation gain.   Most of the ascent is covered in the first 1.5 miles with the trail flattening at the top. With stops to discuss the geology of the area, you can expect a time commitment of 4.5 hours. Pack a lunch as we will be taking a break at one of the overview stops up top. We’ll be watching for thunderstorm activity and may need to cut the hike shorter if weather conditions dictate.

When: October 1, 2026 from 9am – 1:30pm

Where: Group will meet at the Buckles Lake Trailhead.  Head south on Highway 84 out of Pagosa Springs. After ~20 miles, turn left on FR 663.  Follow FR 663 for 6.4 miles where there will be a turn to the right to stay on FR 663. After the right turn you’ll arrive at the trailhead is less than a mile. Note again, on Google Maps and other navigation sites, the trailhead is called Buckles Lake. Both the Buckles Lake and V Rock trails start there.

What to Bring:

• Layers of cool and warm clothing
• Water (1/2 to 1 liter per hour)
• Sturdy, supportive footwear
• Lunch/snacks
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Hiking Daypack
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Camera

Cost: Free, $10 donation is greatly appreciated!

Please Note: Although pets are allowed in the national forest, we ask that pets be left at home as a courtesy to the other guests in the group.

Registration is required. Spaces limited to 25 attendees.

The Chimney Rock Interpretive Association is excited to share a preview of our 2026 lecture season. This year’s programs will explore powerful stories of the Southwest — from Native rock art to pivotal moments in history and fascinating archaeological discoveries.

Mark your calendars:

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

David Bouquet: Southwestern Native Rock Art

Tuesday, June 23r, 2026

Andy Gulliford: The Native Americans of the Chimney Rock Area

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Jon Ghahate: The Pueblo Revolt

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

John Kappelman: The Dating Game: Archaeological Dating Methods

These engaging presentations will deepen your understanding of the people, science, and cultural heritage connected to Chimney Rock National Monument and the broader Southwest.

More details coming soon — but for now, save the dates and plan to join us for an inspiring 2026 season!