About Lane 5 N
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Fishing Spots in the Valley
• Crystal Lakes – Remote, family-run lakes near Del Norte with brook, cutthroat, brown, and tiger trout .
• Rio Grande River & South Fork – Exceptional trout fishing (rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat) accessible near Del?Norte and Alamosa, with public river access and USFS campgrounds .
• Conejos River stretch – A 5-mi stretch near Menkhaven to Aspen?Glade, plus Platoro Reservoir with rainbow and cutthroat opportunities .
• San Luis Lakes & Blanca Wildlife Habitat – Lakes and wetlands ideal for waterfowl, fishing, and birdwatching. BLM-managed and either seasonal or year-round access .
Hiking & Wildlife Observation
• Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge – Meadowlark Nature Trail for bird-watching among over 200 species .
• Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge – Protected Rio Grande riparian habitat with trails and migratory bird sightings ().
• Sangre de Cristo Wilderness – 180?mi of rugged trails through alpine terrain, close to 14,000-ft peaks .
• Cross Creek Trail & Blue Lake Trail – Popular scenic hikes featured among locals .
Historical & Cultural Attractions
• Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic & Historic Byway – 129-mi route highlighting Old?Spanish Trail, Fort?Garland, Cumbres & Toltec Railroad, and historic towns .
• Fort Garland Historic Site, Luther Bean Museum, Art & Cultural Sites in Del Norte
• Hot Springs Nearby – Several thermal pools around Alamosa, such as Joyful Journey and Sand Dunes Swimming Pool .
• Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – Vintage steam train ride through canyon landscapes along the historic byway .
