A Literary Haven on the Western Slope: How "Go as a River" Put Gunnison Valley on the Map

The Gunnison Valley, once a hidden gem on Colorado's Western Slope, has become an unlikely destination for literary tourists from around the world. The catalyst for this influx of book-loving visitors is Shelley Read's bestselling novel, "Go as a River," which has sold over a million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. For locals, this surge in tourism is a welcome boost to the local economy, with visitors flocking to Crested Butte and surrounding areas to experience the landscapes and towns that inspired Read's debut novel.

Read, a fifth-generation Coloradan who grew up in the Gunnison Valley, drew heavily from her hometown's unique landscape and history when crafting her story. The result is a vivid portrayal of the valley's rugged beauty, which has captivated readers and inspired them to visit the area. As Kelly Jo Clark, a bookseller at Townie Books in Crested Butte, notes, "You can drive anywhere around here and feel like you are in the novel." This sense of immersion is precisely what's drawing literary tourists to the Gunnison Valley, with many hoping to catch a glimpse of the author herself.

A New Wave of Tourism

The phenomenon of "Go as a River" fans traveling to the Gunnison Valley began in the summer of 2023, when an elderly couple from Australia visited Townie Books, seeking information on locations mentioned in the book. Since then, many more readers have followed in their footsteps, traveling from across the United States and beyond to experience the valley's unique charm. For local businesses, this influx of visitors presents a significant opportunity. Townie Books, for example, now features "Go as a River" prominently, and Clark fields regular inquiries from literary tourists seeking recommendations on where to visit and what to do in the area.

While the exact economic impact of this literary tourism is difficult to quantify, it's clear that the valley's hospitality industry is benefiting from the surge in visitors. Local hotels, restaurants, and shops are likely to see an increase in business, which could have a positive ripple effect throughout the community. Furthermore, the fact that "Go as a River" has been translated into 35 languages suggests that the valley's appeal is not limited to domestic tourists, but extends to a global audience.

What This Means for Western Slope Residents

So, what does this mean for residents of the Western Slope? For starters, it's a testament to the region's unique beauty and charm, which has captivated readers around the world. As the Gunnison Valley continues to attract literary tourists, locals can expect to see an increase in economic activity, which could lead to new opportunities and investments in the area. Additionally, the fact that "Go as a River" has put the valley on the map could help to raise the region's profile, potentially attracting more visitors and businesses in the future.

For those interested in experiencing the landscapes and towns that inspired Read's novel, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Visitors can drive through the valley, taking in the stunning scenery and stopping at local landmarks, such as Blue Mesa Reservoir and the former town of Iola. They can also visit Townie Books, where Clark and her team are happy to provide recommendations and insights into the area's literary connections. As the Gunnison Valley continues to evolve as a literary haven, one thing is clear: the region's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm has captured the hearts of readers around the world, and is sure to inspire many more visitors to come.