Monte Vista is the second largest city in the San Luis Valley, located in the high altitude of south central Colorado. Monte Vista is Spanish for "mountain view," and it's easy to see how the community got its name. Agriculture in and around Monte Vista includes potatoes, alfalfa, carrots, and barley. The city is headquarters of the Rio Grande National Forest and nearby Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is one of the areas top attractions. The beautiful Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway, which passes the Great Sand Dunes National Monument is also close. The small town environment is enhanced by some of the best skiing, hunting, fishing, camping and hiking opportunities in the state.