GOATs and Llamas Team Up to Rebuild Willow Lake Trail in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
GOATs, llamas, and volunteers spent 8 days rebuilding switchbacks on Willow Lake Trail near Crestone, CO, in the Rio Grande National Forest.
GOATs, llamas, and volunteers spent 8 days rebuilding switchbacks on Willow Lake Trail near Crestone, CO, in the Rio Grande National Forest.
SLV GO staff helped facilitate a public lands planning conversation around mountain bike trail development, cultural resource stewardship, and NHPA Section 106 compliance in the San Luis Valley.
It was a room full of producers, water leaders, and community members—people who understand this place deeply. And in a year like this, the conversation starts where it always does: water.
For decades, Ron’s Loop has been a hidden gem of the San Luis Valley. What began as a network of livestock paths gradually evolved—through community use and care—into one of the region’s most well-loved informal trails. Today, SLV GO! is taking an important step to ensure Ron’s Loop remains accessible, sustainable, and respectful of the working landscape for generations to come.
After an eagerly anticipated wait, the Great Outdoors Action Team is preparing to move from planning to construction on an exciting new trail system at Vista Grande in the town of Saguache, Colorado. This next phase marks a major milestone in a project years in the making—one that reflects collaboration, thoughtful design, and a shared vision for outdoor access.
Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with Saguache County Sustainable Environment and Economic Development (ScSEED) and community members for a thoughtful and energizing conversation about outdoor access, community health, and collaboration in the San Luis Valley.
In 2025, the City of Alamosa, in partnership with SLV GO! and community organizations, released a comprehensive report examining how residents access, use, and experience local parks and trails.
In southeast Alamosa, there’s a trail network that tells a story bigger than dirt and gravel. It’s called the Toivo Malm Trail Network, and it’s more than a place to walk, hike, fish, or bird-watch—it’s a symbol of what happens when a community comes together with vision, care, and heart.
The SLV Gear Library makes outdoor adventures possible for everyone by lending essential equipment. Because the right gear can transform an experience from intimidating to empowering.
The Rising Routes Report shines a light on barriers to outdoor access — from funding instability to transportation challenges — while charting bold strategies for equity and collaboration. Explore what’s next for Colorado’s outdoor future.