Thank you to all who joined us to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Monte Vista Crane Festival.
Sandhill Cranes and other migratory birds follow a long route during their seasonal migrations. Along the way, there are many places where you can stop and view these beautiful creatures. So what makes the Monte Vista Crane Festival Unique? We believe it is a combination of unmatched scenery, exceptional wildlife viewing, and the friendly, welcoming communities of the San Luis Valley.
At the Monte Vista Crane Festival you can enjoy thousands of Sandhill Cranes, ducks, and geese flying against a backdrop of mountain scenery. Raptors will adorn the power poles and owls will be sitting with their young. A visit to the Monte Vista Crane Festival is an opportunity to see an amazing natural spectacle as well as experience a unique rural community.
2023 Festival Recap
From tours and talks to film premieres and craft fairs, the 40th Anniversary of the Monte Vista Crane Festival was an overwhelming success, and a true testament to the passion of crane viewers and SLV hospitality. We are grateful for the support from visitors, locals and businesses alike, and we are eager to see what the future holds for this very special festival. Interested in getting involved in the 2024 festival? Email us!
2023 Festival Schedule
Where the Cranes Meet the Mountains
This short documentary, made possible by a grant from the Colorado Tourism Office and our partners, was produced to commemorate the 40th Annual Monte Vista Crane Festival. Filmmaker Christie Bode-Skeie follows the journey of South Fork artist Amanda Charlton Hurley, a new arrival to the Valley experiencing the sights and sounds of Sandhill Cranes for the first time. Watch the film below and read more about the project at the Alamosa Citizen.