The San Juan Mountains offer some of the most scenic mountain climbs in the state. It was the mountains that brought me to Lake City. The basins fill with some of the most vibrant wildflowers, and there's always a place to camp. Outdoors aside, it is the people of Lake City that keep me coming back year after year. With a population just under 400, this little mountain community opens their hearts to everyone. I will pass on telling you about the mountains, and give you a glimpse at a couple of other treasures in town.
1. Fly Fishing: From lakes to creeks, Lake City offers plenty of bountiful fishing opportunities throughout the summer months. I told my friend I would not share his favorite spots, but with a few quick google searches, you will have plenty of fishing holes to fill a weekend. Stop by Dan's Fly Shop in town to get a current fishing report from the locals. If you're lucky, you'll even be serenaded by a local fishing guide on the patio at Cannibal Grill & Saloon over dinner.
2. Hammock off Henson Creek: Head past Lake City Brewing on CO Rd 20 up Henson Creek. There will be ample spots to pull off and hang a hammock by the creek. This area also offers great primitive camping for the Lake City area. While busy with campers, if you are trying to avoid the larger crowds at Grizzly/Silver Gulch, there is plenty of room to spread out between camps. Don't hesitate to stop by Lake City Brewing either. I recommend the deviled eggs if you are looking for a snack, and be sure to learn the story behind their table tops.
3. Southern Vittles: With Friday night shrimp boils, and Saturday fall off the bone ribs, this seasonal local stop stays busy all summer (Pro tip: Call ahead that week to pre-order the ribs). It could be the southern fried menu that appeals to the masses of Texans overtaking Lake City by OHVs from May to August. The ribs are fall off the bone scrumptious. The fired catfish, fried okra and hush puppies are spot on crunchtastic. They also stock up on a pie every week from the Lake City Bakery. My only complaint is Southern Vittles is not open over the Lake City Ice Festival Weekend in February.
A few more tips:
Get breakfast at Chillin' (free wifi)
Pick up a local paper, The Silver World
If you are climbing mountains, watch the weather
Don't speed through town
Stay at the Matterhorn Motel with Deb
Get ice cream at the San Juan Soda Company
Easy access to 14ers: Handies, Sunshine, Redcloud, Wetterhorn, and Umcompahgre
Moose in the area
Bears in the area
Best 4th of July in the State
Stick Horse Show and Rodeo the first weekend in August
