Document Actions
San Luis People's Ditch
Discover "acequias" (gravity-fed irrigation systems) in one of the oldest communities in Colorado. Serving the village of San Luis de la Culebra before Colorado was a Territory, the People's Ditch was initially a shallow hand-dug irrigation channel. Later, oxen pulling a plow widened and extended the ditch. Operating under Water District 24 of Division 3, the People's Ditch holds the first adjudicated water rights in Colorado. The People's Ditch serves 16 "parcientes" (affiliated water users) and irrigates approximately 2100 acres of hay & other row crops. A majority of parcientes are descendants of the original founders of the acequia.
Extends 4 miles west from La Vega (pasture land) in San Luis near CO Hwy. 159
San Luis, CO 81152
San Luis, CO 81152
(719) 672-3002 ; (719) 672-3611
Hours of Operation
Outdoor site
Directions
An interpretive marker situated near the stone bridge near the junction of CO Hwys. 159 and 142 (also entrance to the Shrine of the Stations of the Cross) at the north end of downtown San Luis gives historical information on the People's Ditch.
A stone commemorative marker is located at the south edge of town on the east side CO Hwy. 159.
Best to call ahead before exploring the Ditch more extensively on your own as lands are not public.
Visitor Services
Parking
Picnic Area
Designations
National Register District
Travel Tips
Structures located within the San Luis historic district include the Sangre de Cristo Parish Church, Costilla County Courthouse, San Luis Cultural Center and Museum, and R&R Grocery and Hardware, the oldest family-run business in Colorado. Amenities of interest to tourists are the Ventero Open Press Art Gallery, two coffee shops, and restaurants.
Entrance Fees
Free
