Rio Grande County covers 913 square miles and is considered the “Gateway to the San Juans.” The population was 11,982 in 2010, and the county seat is Del Norte. The county is named for the Rio Grande (“Big River”), which flows through it.
Monte Vista is the county’s largest community and agricultural center located on the San Luis Valley floor. The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge receives migratory cranes as they stop in on their annual trek. The newest town in Rio Grande County is South Fork, surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest and a very quick drive to the most snow in all of Colorado at Wolf Creek Ski Area.
Visit the Rio Grande County Government website.
County Towns
Adjacent Counties
Special Events
- Mar – Monte Vista Crane Festival
- Aug – San Luis Valley Potato Festival in Monte Vista
Latest in Rio Grande County
Camping near Alamosa, Sand Dunes, and around the San Luis Valley
The San Luis Valley is one of Colorado’s most unique places, from its reported UFO sightings…
Camping near Alamosa, Sand Dunes, and around the San Luis ValleyRead More
Top 4 Cool & Unusual Hotels in Monte Vista
Best known for the annual Sandhill Crane migration near the town, Monte Vista is a quiet…
Top 15 Cool & Unusual Hotels in South Fork
South Fork is a gateway town to the San Juan Mountains, thanks to its strategic location…
3 Best Hotels in Del Norte, Colorado
Explore the “Grand River of the North” and embark on an exciting outdoor escapade here in…
