This serene pool is one of the many things you will see when you take a guided tour of the Riverwalk wetlands.
By Josh Pike
Pagosa Wetland Partners
The Riverwalk conservation area is one of the richest and most unique natural areas around Pagosa Springs. Fed by geothermal water, the wetlands are filled with an extraordinary diversity of birds, plants and mammals and an abundance of natural beauty.
Easily accessed by the Riverwalk Trail that winds through the wetlands, they form an oasis of nature and peace in the middle of downtown Pagosa Springs. Now, you have a new opportunity to explore the wetlands through free nature tours offered weekly through the Riverwalk Naturalist Program.
Three guided tours of the wetlands are offered every week between July 9 and Sept. 30. These tours offer unique insights on the ecology, geology and history of the area, as well as an opportunity to observe and enjoy the wildlife and beauty of the wetlands. Each tour is led by passionate and knowledgeable guides, community members who are excited to share the wetlands and their value with you.
Free tours will be offered starting at 8 a.m. on Friday and Saturday mornings and 7 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. No reservations are required; just show up when you want to join us. Each tour will last between 1 and 1-1/2 hours and will involve an approximately 1 1/2-mile walk on a paved trail. People of all ages, abilities and identities are welcomed to join us. Tours will meet at the Habitat Hero Native Plant Garden in Centennial Park behind the courthouse near the Geothermal Greenhouse Partnership domes. Tours will follow the Riverwalk Trail through the wetlands, ending near Town Hall.
Bringing binoculars and a water bottle is recommended, as many wetland animals, such as birds, are more easily seen with binoculars and the trail can be quite warm in summer. We ask that you leave your furry friends at home, as their presence will often disturb wildlife on the trail and limit things we can see. However, service animals are always welcome.
Wildlife varies at different times of the day. Therefore, coming to multiple tours is encouraged to get a fuller picture of the Riverwalk conservation area. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to explore the wetlands with us. Contact us at pagosawetlands@gmail.com if you have questions. Otherwise, we will see you on the trail.
