Sandhill cranes are an icon of the San Luis Valley. Over 20,000 cranes spend part of their spring and fall each year in this valley. While here, they build up energy by feasting on grains in agricultural fields and natural grasslands, as well as aquatic invertebrates and amphibians in wetlands. Cranes mate for life, and each spring they renew their bond through a courtship ritual that includes dancing, bowing, chortling, and throwing tufts of grass. Visit Monte Vista in early Spring to view the
In 1907, the Manitou Incline was constructed as a one-mile, funicular, cable tram to aid in the construction of a nearby hydroelectric plant and waterline. In 1990, the Railway operation ceased to exist and the rails were removed, creating a natural staircase. About ¾ of the way up, after the steepest grade of 68%, many people feel they have reached the top – only to find that they have in fact reached the "False Summit." Fear not, one only has to hike 300 more feet to reach the actual summit
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