Early Spanish explorers and Indians are known to have passed through the Valley and established small encampments. Later came the American Explorations of John Fremont, Zebulon Pike, and Kit Carson. The Valley was settled with the mountains becoming important for their minerals and forests, while the valley floor began growing to prominence for its agricultural production. Though a semi-arid climate prevails in the Valley, agriculture flourishes due to massive irrigation. San Luis Valley potatoes are well known nationally.
Agriculture is the mainstay of the Valley's economy.
Whistles of the narrow gauge steam engines thunder between the 1500 foot walls of Toltec Gorge. One of the Valleys most popular natural wonders lies against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Centuries of wind and sand have created the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, with dunes piled to heights of 700 feet and more. The Wolf Creek Ski Area has the best powder snow skiing in Colorado and one of the longest seasons in the state. Very popular with locals and visitors alike.