Welcome Back to Mountain to Mesa Journal!

The Four Corners region never sleeps–and neither does the adventure. As we settle into the new year, our mountain and desert communities continue to captivate with their timeless beauty. This unusually mild winter has created perfect conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes that make our corner of the Southwest so special.

From the rugged peaks of the San Juans to the expansive mesas stretching toward the horizon, from rushing rivers to ancient rock formations, this region offers something remarkable at every turn. Each season brings its own unique character, and even in the depths of January, the Four Corners beckons with endless possibilities.

This week, we've gathered the latest happenings from across our region.

One Region. Four States. Endless Discovery.

Let's dive in!

Interesting Local Facts

Northwestern New Mexico's Ancestral Puebloan Legacy

Some of North America's most remarkable ancient civilizations flourished right here in northwestern New Mexico. And their stories are waiting for you.

Start at Aztec Ruins National Monument, where a reconstructed Great Kiva transports you 900 years into the past. Walk through the original doorways. Stand where ceremonies once echoed. Despite its name, this site belonged to the Ancestral Puebloans, not the Aztecs—a misnomer from early settlers that stuck.

Just down the road, Salmon Ruins offers an intimate experience with ongoing archaeological research. The adjacent Heritage Park showcases reconstructed dwellings representing multiple Southwest cultures, creating a living timeline of indigenous innovation.

Then there's Chaco Canyon—the crown jewel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a cultural and ceremonial center connecting communities across the Southwest through an intricate road system. Massive great houses like Pueblo Bonito demonstrate sophisticated astronomical alignments and architectural engineering that still astound researchers.

These aren't just ruins. They're testaments to resilient cultures whose descendants continue honoring these sacred places today. Visit with respect. Listen closely. The ancient stones have stories to share—and they're more powerful than any textbook could capture.

Twin Buttes Trail - Durango, CO

BOOze and Bites Light Food Tour

🎭 Activity: BOOze and Bites Light Food Tour
📅 Date: Thursday, January 15th
📍 Place: Perbacco Cucina Italiana
🕒 Time: 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Perbacco Cucina Italiana
🎫 Admission: $95.00 Per Person
📞 Contact: (970) 570-0437
📄 Details: Nibble on light bites of delicious cuisine while sipping your favorite cocktail. You will hear ghost stories and history from each location, speak with the owners and staff, and indulge all your senses as you listen to some pretty wild tales from the sites where they happened. Food is included in the tour price, but guests must purchase libations. 16+ years welcome, but you must be 21+ to purchase alcohol. IDs required.(Reservations are also required.)

Durango Wedding Expo

Cascade Winter Train

🎭 Activity: Cascade Canyon Winter Train
📅 Date: Fri, Jan. 16th, Sat, Jan. 17th and Sun, Jan. 18th
📍 Place: Durango
🕒 Time: 9:00am
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
🎫 Admission: 96.00 to 198.00
📞 Contact: (970) 247-2733
📄 Details: This unforgettable round-trip excursion departs from Durango and journeys to Cascade Canyon, offering magnificent views of the Animas River and the snow-clad peaks of the Rocky Mountains of southwest Colorado. Spanning 26 miles each way, this 5.25 hour round trip experience is offered on select dates from November 21 through May 1.

Live Music at The Strater Hotel

🎭 Activity: Live Music Schedule at The Strater Hotel
📅 Date: Monday through Sunday - Jan 14th, Thru Jan 31st
📍 Place: Strater Hotel
🕒 Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Strater Hotel
🎫 Admission: Free
📄 Details: Enjoy live music at the Diamond Belle Saloon and The Office Spiritorium every evening from 6 PM to 9 PM. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and entertainment at the historic Strater Hotel.

Julian Blue - Live Music

Stand-Up Comedy: Chicago's Dan Docimo

🎭 Activity: Stand-Up Comedy: Chicago's Dan Docimo
📅 Date: Fri, January 16, 2026
📍 Place: Durango Arts Center
🕒 Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Durango Arts Center
🎫 Admission: $25.00
📞 Contact: (970) 880-1112
📄 Details: Chicago-favorite comedian Dan Docimo is coming to Durango! A prime-time performer at the Lincoln Lodge Theatre & regular performer at Zanies, Dan has gained a following of comedy fans for hilariously sharp material, unique takes, & observational humor... combined with a disarming charm on-stage. (Must be 18 years or older)

In Tribute: Music for Vibes and Piano

Desiderata Two Night Double Feature

🎭 Activity: Desiderata Two-Night Double Feature
📅 Date: January 16th and 17th
📍 Place: The iAM MUSIC Institute
🕒 Time: 8-10 p.m.
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Indigo Room
🎫 Admission: Pre-sale, $15; day of show, $17
📞 Contact: Phone: 970-799-7450
📄 Details: Join Desiderata for a two-night double feature in Durango, where their irresistible grooves will make you want to move. Enjoy a night filled with music and good vibes!

Phyphr with 5AM Trio & McWavy

Karaoke with Kimmy

Animal Soul and Carute Roma

Jason Leech with Future Joy + Michael Wilbur

Irish Jam

5 Day Forecast - Durango, Colorado

Live Music with the Dirk Quinn Band

🎭 Activity: Live Music with the Dirk Quinn Band
📅 Date: Thursday, January 15 2026
📍 Place: Kips Grill and Cantina - Pagosa Location
🕒 Time: 7:00pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Kips Grill and Cantina
📞 Contact: 970-264-3663
📄 Details: Join us for an evening of live music with the Dirk Quinn Band at Kip's Grill and Cantina. Enjoy great food and drinks while listening to fantastic tunes!

Buckaroos Dinner Sleigh Ride

🎭 Activity: Buckaroos Dinner Sleigh Ride
📅 Date: Friday, Jan 16th & Sat Jan 17th, 2026
📍 Place: Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides
🕒 Time: 4:00pm and 6:00pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides
🎫 Admission: $87 - $117
📞 Contact: 720-231-5424
📄 Details: Snuggle up and take a horse-drawn ride to a cozy dining cabin where you will enjoy a hearty three-course ranch menu paired with live guitar music. Advanced reservations required.

Sweet River- Live Music

Winterfest 2026 - Pagosa Springs

Click the Flyer Image For More Information...

Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascension

Winterfest Barkus Parade

Winterfest 2026 - Penguin Plunge

🎭 Activity: Winterfest 2026 - Penguin Plunge
📅 Date: Saturday, January 17 2026
📍 Place: Pagosa Springs Visitor Center
🕒 Time: 1:00pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Pagosa Springs Visitor Center
🎫 Admission: Registration to plunge required along with raising money for a community non-profit organization.
📄 Details: Join us for Winterfest 2026 and support your favorite non-profits by plunging into the freezing cold San Juan River! This is a fun event where brave participants plunge deep into the river—all for a great cause! Registration begins at noon, and the plunging starts at 1pm. Don't miss our special guest, sure to delight the kids!

Float Like a Buffalo - Winterfest Live Music

Live Music Events at Coyote Moon Lounge

Live Music Events at Uncle's Bar and Social Club

Live Music Events at the Pagosa Bar

Live Music Events at the El Camino Lounge and Grill

Live Music Events at Dublin Crust & Brew

5 Day Forecast - Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Objects Tell Stories

🎭 Activity: Objects Tell Stories
📅 Date: January 15th through March 31st
📍 Place: Farmington Museum
🕒 Time: 10am-5pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Farmington Museum
🎫 Admission: Free
📞 Contact: (505) 599-1174
📄 Details: The Farmington Museum’s collection is filled with fascinating treasures that capture the spirit of our community’s past. From antique furniture and vintage clothing to retro technology and unique works of art, each piece reveals a glimpse into the lives, creativity, and culture that shaped Farmington. Many of these artifacts are rarely displayed—explore our staff’s favorite picks and discover the stories they have to tell.

Celebrating 45 Years of Anthony Chee Emerson

🎭 Activity: Celebrating 45 Years of Anthony Chee Emerson
📅 Date: Jan 16th - Feb 13th, 2026
📍 Place: Henderson Fine Art Gallery
🕒 Time: 4 - 6pm
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Henderson Fine Art Gallery
📞 Contact: (505) 566-3464
📄 Details: Join us at the Henderson Fine Art Gallery for a celebration of 45 years of Anthony Chee Emerson’s artistry. The event showcases a collection of traditional and contemporary media intertwined with Diné culture and storytelling, as Emerson brings his colorful masterpieces to life.

Mike Dillon Band Featuring Brian Haas - Live Music

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

5 Day Forecast - Farmington, New Mexico

The Robin Davis Duo - Live Music

Bluff International Balloon Festival

Golden Pick Tommyknocker Pond Hockey Tournament

🎭 Activity: Golden Pick Tommyknocker Pond Hockey Tournament
📅 Date: January 17-18, 2026
📍 Place: Silver Ice Park, Creede, CO
🌐 Website: Learn More
🗺️ Directions: Silver Ice Park
📄 Details: A chilly breeze, a warm bonfire, and an afternoon cocktail make the Pond Hockey tournament one of the most loved winter events in town. The event draws amateur teams from all over the United States, some from as far as Dallas and Detroit. The tournament is held at The Silver Ice Park, situated beneath the famous Creede cliffs. Observers enjoy the view while watching teams battle for the puck and yearly bragging rights.