Explore valley's nature, history, art by bus, train

Here’s a wonderful post-Labor Day getaway close by: Join Colorado Preservation’s “On the Road” heritage tour of the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area, “The Cradle of Colorado,” Friday through Sept. 12.

This will be an exciting visit to the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area in the lower San Luis Valley. Composed of Costilla, Conejos and Alamosa counties, the National Heritage Area is a blend of people, cultures, beauty and natural wonders.

The valley is home to Colorado’s first established towns and churches, sacred public art, farms and farmers markets, the haunting landscapes of Los Caminos Antiguos and the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.

“On the Road” begins Friday evening with a kick-off reception featuring local history, foods and live music at Fort Garland Museum, hosted by director Rick Manzanares and the Friends of Fort Garland.

On Saturday, you’ll tour by both bus and train through the three counties. First stop is San Luis, Colorado’s first established town, the Stations of the Cross Shrine, a tour of sculptor Huberto Maestas’ studio, the renovated San Luis Courthouse, People’s Ditch and La Vega.

The tour continues along the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic and Historic Byway, stopping at San Acacio Viejo. In Conejos County, you’ll visit Colorado’s oldest church parish and explore Antonito’s architecture.

Finally, you’ll board the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad from Antonito to Alamosa on the Toltec Gorge Limited, a 60-year-old diesel train with dome cars.

Highlights for Sept. 12 include a visit to the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve for a tour and presentation by park rangers.

Then choose from options to do on your own that highlight local preservation, wilderness, art and entertainment. Choices include the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad from Alamosa over La Veta Pass, a guided tour of Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve backcountry by four-wheel drive, Rio Costilla Studio Tour, Zapata Falls or a ride aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Antonito.

IF YOU GO

The “On The Road in the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area” trip presents a unique opportunity to join the board of directors and staff of Colorado Preservation for an exciting heritage-tourism event.

The cost is $250, or $35 for students. Register by calling 1-303-893-4260 or online at www .coloradopreservation.org. For information, write tp Susan Livingston at slivingston@coloradopreservation.org.

If you can’t make it this year, mark your calendar for 2011 and frequently check the website for updates and other sponsored events.