Exploring the Rugged Backcountry of South-Central Colorado

By Ivan PetrenkoJun 4, 2024 11:30 AMNews
Share:
Bear Lake Trailhead, Estes Park, United States
Bear Lake Trailhead, Estes Park, United States. Source: unsplash

National Geographic photographer Keith Ladzinski embarks on a journey to rediscover the wild beauty of south-central Colorado’s San Luis Valley. This expansive region, defined by its soaring peaks, sprawling sand dunes, and quaint ranch towns, offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Keith Ladzinski, a Colorado native, returned to his roots to explore the San Luis Valley’s rich culture and outdoor recreation opportunities. From off-roading and backpacking to rock climbing and backcountry hiking, this area is perfect for adventure seekers. Ladzinski found endless inspiration in the valley’s natural beauty and history.

Travelers venturing into the backcountry should come well-prepared with essential tools like GPS devices, comprehensive camera equipment, and robust vehicles. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is ideal for navigating the rugged terrain and ensuring safe returns from remote explorations.

The San Luis Valley, spanning 8,000 square miles across six counties, is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the east, the San Juans to the west, and the Saguache Mountains to the north frame this high desert valley at 8,100 feet above sea level. This region boasts nearly a dozen "Fourteeners," making it a prime destination for climbers and adventurers.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the valley’s most breathtaking sites. Here, visitors can hike and sled down North America's tallest dunes, surrounded by a diverse landscape of alpine lakes, grasslands, wetlands, and forests. At night, this International Dark Sky Park offers spectacular stargazing opportunities.

Ladzinski’s journey included a stay at Trinchera Ranch, a protected area with extensive wildlife habitat and outdoor activity options. His memorable moments included capturing landscapes at dawn and photographing cottonwood trees at twilight, showcasing the valley’s unique beauty.

The San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex is another highlight, encompassing over 120,000 acres of diverse habitats. Migrating sandhill cranes and hundreds of other bird species thrive in these wetlands, providing an extraordinary wildlife viewing experience against the backdrop of towering mountains.

Exploring south-central Colorado’s San Luis Valley offers an unparalleled adventure, combining rugged landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Whether driving through alpine forests or photographing serene pastures, this region is a perfect escape for reconnecting with nature.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Malaysia Airlines aircraft being loaded at the airport gate

Malaysia Airlines Reinstates Brisbane Route with Expanded Regional Access

Apr 18, 2025 23:21 PM
Aerial view of a beach on Seychelles, with turquoise waves and granite rock formations

Seychelles Launches Marine Programme for Environmentally Minded Travellers

Apr 18, 2025 21:34 PM

Maintenance Work to Impact Summer Departures at Hannover Airport

Apr 18, 2025 19:48 PM

Severe Rail Disruptions Ahead of Marathon and FA Cup

Apr 18, 2025 17:23 PM
Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 aircraft in mid-flight against a grey sky

Asia Travel Made Easier with New Airline Partnership

Apr 18, 2025 15:35 PM
Crowne Plaza hotel building under clear sky

Business Travel Gets Personal: New Hotel Perk Encourages Guests to Bring a Companion

Apr 17, 2025 23:31 PM
Emirates Airbus A380 taking off from the runway during daytime

Easter Flights Bring Seasonal Comforts for Travelers

Apr 17, 2025 20:25 PM
Two people walking with an umbrella during heavy rain on a flooded street

Weekend Weather Threatens Travel Across South West England

Apr 17, 2025 18:47 PM
Wizz Air aircraft in flight against cloudy sky

Wizz Air Expands Naples Routes with New Travel Destinations

Apr 17, 2025 16:33 PM

Maui faces water shortage amid tourist comfort

Apr 16, 2025 22:39 PM

New Direct Flight Simplifies Travel Between Munich and Dubai

Apr 16, 2025 20:42 PM
Interior view of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 with immigration area and directional signs

Changi Lounges to Expand Space and Comfort Over Two Years

Apr 16, 2025 18:24 PM
Rail workers operating heavy machinery to replace tracks during infrastructure upgrade

Train Delays Expected on Pisa to Rome Line This Summer

Apr 16, 2025 16:37 PM
Traveler with suitcase watching airplane take off at airport terminal

Antalya Airport Upgrade Enhances Travel Experience

Apr 15, 2025 16:46 PM
Dynjandi waterfall cascading down a rocky mountain in Westfjords, Iceland

Iceland’s Expanding Appeal for Nature-Loving Travellers

Apr 15, 2025 14:53 PM

Flexible Antalya Trips Now Easier from Graz

Apr 15, 2025 12:37 PM

UK Rain Warning Triggers Travel Caution for Midweek Journeys

Apr 15, 2025 10:44 AM
Ryanair plane landing at airport

Hidden Fees and Access Problems Reported on eDreams

Apr 15, 2025 08:21 AM
Passengers seated inside a city bus

Electric Buses Make Exploring Exeter Smoother for Visitors

Apr 15, 2025 06:39 AM
Munich Airport's central plaza with glass roof and modern architecture

New Munich Route Eases Access to Canadian Rockies

Apr 14, 2025 23:56 PM
Rail workers conducting track maintenance during daytime engineering works

Easter Rail Closures to Impact UK Holiday Travel

Apr 14, 2025 21:42 PM
Ryanair airplane in mid-flight against a blue sky

Expedia Adds Direct Ryanair Bookings Amid Shift in Airline Strategy

Apr 14, 2025 19:38 PM

Traveler Left Without Wheelchair After Hawaii Flight

Apr 13, 2025 21:41 PM

Winter Closure of Burgas Airport Will Impact Air Travel

Apr 13, 2025 19:34 PM
View of an empty airplane aisle from a low angle, showing rows of seats and overhead bins

Avelo Faces Backlash Over Deportation Flight Deal

Apr 12, 2025 22:49 PM
Airplane at airport gate during sunrise with ground crew preparing for departure

Quick Getaways Changing the Way Europe Travels

Apr 12, 2025 19:51 PM