Many of the best outdoor activities in this part of the state take place in the Rio Grande National Forest, with the Supervisor's Office at 1803 W. U.S. 160, Monte Vista, CO 81144 (tel. 719/852-5941). For equipment for a variety of outdoor activities (including mountain bike and ski rentals), visit Kristi Mountain Sports, Villa Mall, 3217 Main St., Alamosa (tel. 719/589-9759).

Fishing

The Rio Grande is an outstanding stream for trout, walleye, and catfish; and there are numerous high mountain lakes and streams throughout the Rio Grande National Forest where you're apt to catch rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat, and Rio Grande cutthroat trout. For information, contact the Forest Service office . You can get licenses, tackle, and advice at Wal-Mart, 3333 Clark St., off U.S. 160 about 3 miles east of downtown Alamosa (tel. 719/589-9071).

Golf

The Cattails Golf Club, 6615 N. River Rd. (tel. 719/589-9515), is an 18-hole course along the Rio Grande on the north side of Alamosa. Generally open March through November, the cost is $30 for 18 holes. The 9-hole Monte Vista Country Club, at 101 Country Club Dr. in the town of Monte Vista (tel. 719/852-4906), 17 miles west of Alamosa, is a particularly challenging course due to its small greens. Open April through October, the course is on the migratory path of sandhill and whooping cranes. The fee is $22 for 18 holes.

Hiking

The best opportunities in the region are found in the surrounding Rio Grande National Forest, with nearly 2 million acres. One of the most popular hikes, with easy access, is Zapata Falls, reached off Colo. 150 about 20 miles northeast of Alamosa and south of Great Sand Dunes. This cavernous waterfall on the northwest flank of 14,345-foot Mount Blanca freezes in winter, turning its cave into a natural icebox that often remains frozen well into summer. More challenging hikes include trails into the Wheeler Geologic Area, known for its unique rock formations. Obtain directions from the Forest Service .

Mountain Biking

There are plenty of opportunities for mountain biking on local federal lands. Stop at the visitor center to pick up a copy of the San Luis Valley Mountain Bike Guide. Get additional information from the Forest Service , or stop at Kristi Mountain Sports for tips on the best places to go, rentals (starting around $25 per day), repairs, and accessories.

Swimming

Splashland Hot Springs, 5895 S. Colo. 17 (tel. 719/589-6307), 1 mile north of Alamosa via U.S. 160, has a geothermally heated outdoor pool (94°F/34°C average temperature) measuring 150 feet by 60 feet, with both high dive and low dive, and a popular mini-water slide. There's also an 18-inch-deep wading pool. Bathing suits, towels, and pool paraphernalia can be rented; there's a snack bar and public showers. It's open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Thursday through Tuesday. Weekday hours are from 10am to 6:30pm; Saturday and Sunday from noon to 9pm. Pool passes cost $3 to $6.