Everyone knows the spot it never rains in the San Luis Valley. Sure, it’s a desert, but even deserts get rain. Just inside the cattle guard on the eastern side of Lane 6 North, as one goes to reach the Great Sand Dunes from the west, lies a desiccated circle. The most peculiar thing about this spot is not what happens when the rains refuse to come…it’s what happens when they do.
Valley residents tell tales of rainfall sweeping through, painting every surface dark and wet—except this spot. In this spot rain simply doesn’t fall, even when it does…as if it’s avoiding something.
The valley’s history and reputation have given rise to many a tall tale aimed at explaining this strange phenomenon. Some say the land is cursed. Others that it is blessed. Some point to it as proof that a cloaked, alien drone hovers in the sky, spying on us for some unknown purpose. Others that it is a portal between worlds, one which has closed and refuses to reopen.
Locals come from far and wide to witness and gossip, using it as an excuse to spend time together. Children rush through the spot as it rains, giggling, imagining they are passing beneath a bridge.
A handful of people have noted the spot isn’t a true circle. They note the shape resembles that of a cowboy hat, when viewed from above. Most people wear brimmed hats in the valley, though, so this is probably just some form of confirmation bias.