Archuleta County is one of the most rapidly growing counties in the nation. New developments are everywhere, and Pagosa Lakes, a large development west of town, is infilling rapidly. Fairfield Pagosa condominium timeshares are booming and new motels are appearing. Undeveloped space is rapidly disappearing. National Forest budget for trail construction and maintenance is considerably reduced.
The Pagosa Area Trails Council was created to address some of the recreational and alternative transportation opportunities, and needs that were not being provided.