Penitente Canyon, set in southeastern Colorado’s San Luis Valley, is celebrated for its striking petroglyphs carved by Indigenous peoples over thousands of years.

These ancient symbols and figures, etched into volcanic rock, reveal deep insight into the spiritual and daily lives of Native tribes.

The canyon is part of the region’s largest concentration of prehistoric rock art, making it a centerpiece of local cultural heritage.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the 4,552-acre Penitente Canyon Recreation Area welcomes visitors with well-marked trails and interpretive panels, inviting exploration while preserving the site’s fragile legacy.

Beyond its Indigenous significance, Penitente Canyon also reflects Spanish history as a former retreat for Los Hermanos Penitentes, a religious sect, in the 1800s.

Respect for trail guidelines ensures these remarkable petroglyphs remain intact for generations, connecting today’s visitors with Colorado’s layered past.

The San Luis Valley Brewing Company

Known for its laid-back mountain-town vibe, SLV Brewing Company features a rotating selection of house-made craft beers — from crisp lagers to rich stouts — brewed right on site. Their beer flights are a favorite for first-timers who want to sample the range. The food menu goes beyond typical pub fare, offering everything from juicy burgers and fresh salads to wood-fired pizzas and locally inspired specialties.

With its exposed brick interior, friendly staff, and welcoming patio space, it’s the perfect spot for after-work meetups, game days, or a relaxed dinner with family. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a great meal in the San Luis Valley, this hometown brewery delivers flavor, community, and Colorado charm in every pint.

The Colorado Cottage Foods Act (CCFA) could soon see major changes, with new legislation proposing to expand what home food producers can offer.

House Bill 26-1033 would allow the sale of foods requiring refrigeration, including items with meat—options not previously permitted.

For San Luis Valley residents, this shift means greater opportunities for local entrepreneurs and a richer variety of products for the community.

Producers making perishable items would be required to complete a food safety course and show proof of training, ensuring consumer safety while unlocking new markets.

Local health agencies would also gain authority to issue fines and recover inspection costs, further strengthening oversight.

The bill would eliminate the $10,000 earnings cap, creating room for more robust business growth.

Combined with supportive initiatives like the Community Food Access program, these changes could boost the valley’s thriving cottage food scene and support healthier food options for all.

The Rio Grande County Museum in Del Norte will reopen on March 6, 2026, launching a new season with a special presentation by acclaimed historian Andrew Gulliford.

At 5:30 p.m., Gulliford will captivate guests with stories of Theodore Roosevelt’s bold adventures and his enduring legacy as a conservationist.

Attendees can look forward to learning about Roosevelt's pivotal 1908 designation of the Wheeler Geological Area—Colorado’s first National Monument—highlighting local pride in preserved natural wonders.

The Wheeler Geological Area, once surveyed by Capt. George M. Wheeler in 1874, remains a local landmark, celebrated for its 25-million-year-old formations and significance to the San Luis Valley.

Throughout the year, the museum engages the community with adult workshops, rock art tours, and expert-led presentations, fostering a deeper connection to regional history.

Early registration is encouraged due to limited seating, and donations help sustain these enriching programs in Del Norte.

Villa Grove

Perched along US-285 in northern Saguache County, Villa Grove is one of those small Valley-edge communities that feels like a doorway—one step and you’re into big sky, high peaks, and wide-open quiet.

Villa Grove began as a railroad town. The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad established the settlement in 1870 and originally named it Garibaldi. For roughly twenty years it served as the southern terminus of the narrow-gauge Poncha Pass line, bringing travelers, freight, and frontier energy to this northern gateway of the Valley.

In 1872, the community adopted the name Villa Grove, and the post office records show several spelling variations before settling permanently on today’s version in 1950.

Today, Villa Grove is proudly small—more crossroads than town center. Visitors come for the views, the quiet, and the sense that you’re right where the mountains begin to rise out of the Valley floor.

Worth the drive: The community sits within easy reach of relaxing stops like Joyful Journey Hot Springs, along with nearby forest access, scenic drives, and backroad exploring.

If you have a Villa Grove memory—an old photo, story, or favorite nearby spot—hit reply and I may feature it in a future issue.

Q: What outdoor activities are popular in Villa Grove, Colorado?

A: Hiking, fishing, and camping are popular outdoor activities in Villa Grove.

Q: Are there any unique local shops and restaurants in Villa Grove?

A: Yes, Villa Grove has some charming local shops and restaurants serving delicious homemade food.

Q: Is Villa Grove a good place for stargazing?

A: Yes, Villa Grove is known for its clear night skies, making it a great place for stargazing.

The Colorado Department of Education is now inviting nominations for the 2027 Colorado Teacher of the Year award.

This honor celebrates educators who demonstrate exceptional teaching and make a lasting impact on their students, schools, and local communities.

Residents statewide are encouraged to recognize standout teachers, including leaders like Elisamaria Heredia at Alamosa Elementary, a recent finalist renowned for her dedication to multilingual learners in the San Luis Valley.

Eligible nominees must be public school teachers working in accredited K-12 schools, with plans to continue teaching into 2027-28.

The nomination deadline is March 20, followed by an application window from March 2 to April 13 and virtual support for applicants.

Milestones include semifinalist announcements in May and the final winner unveiled this fall.

Local awards, like St. Vrain Valley’s Celebration of Excellence, further spotlight inspiring teachers shaping Colorado’s youth.

Recognizing these educators uplifts the profession and highlights their vital role in our communities.

Visit the Monte Vista Crane Festival in March to see thousands of sandhill cranes migrating through the area - it's a must-see experience for nature lovers!

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The Rubi Slipper

Shopping at local markets in the San Luis Valley is a great way to discover homemade breads, jams, and delicious treats. Many vendors strive to follow Colorado’s food safety rules, though some may not realize all the requirements. Staying informed helps keep everyone safe and supports honest businesses.

When browsing, look for permits or certificates displayed at vendor booths, such as a Cottage Food Certificate or Retail Food License.

For packaged items, proper labels should list the product name, producer, ingredients, allergens, and any needed disclaimers.

Be cautious with homemade foods like dairy-based dishes or meat products, which can’t legally be sold without special licensing or refrigeration.

Check for safe food handling—cold foods should stay chilled and hot foods remain heated, with clean utensils and handwashing available.

If in doubt, politely ask about licensing—responsible vendors are happy to share their credentials.

Instant Pot Santa Fe Jasmine Rice (Pot-in-Pot)

Fluffy jasmine rice with bold Southwest flavor — an easy, hands-off side that pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.

Ingredients (Inner Pot)

• 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel-style), undrained
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup corn (optional)
• ½ cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

Ingredients (Outer Pot)

• 1 cup water

Instructions

• Rinse jasmine rice until water runs mostly clear and add it to a heat-safe bowl.
• Stir in broth, diced tomatoes with green chiles, spices, corn, and black beans.
• Cover the bowl tightly with foil or a fitted lid.
• Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
• Set the covered bowl on the trivet.
• Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes.
• Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
• Remove the bowl, let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.

Finish & Serve

• Stir in chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice, if desired
• Add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil for extra richness

Tip: If the rice looks slightly wet, leave uncovered for 2–3 minutes before fluffing. If it’s too firm, sprinkle with 1–2 tablespoons of hot water, cover, and rest 5 minutes.