Northern San Juan County gift guide
by Kara Laws
Contriburting Writer
Last week we talked about Christmas shopping ideas from the south end of San Juan County. This week, we are going to explore what the northern part of San Juan County has to offer.
Shopping with local businesses changes lives and families so we are going to do our part to help make local shopping a little bit easier. Shopping local is more than just a transaction—it’s a way to give back to your community. Shopping local funds jobs, schools, sports teams, and community events. It’s a win-win: you find unique gifts and keep your favorite parts of San Juan County alive.
For this guide we have highlighted businesses with storefronts, whether physical or online, to make shopping simple and enjoyable, although San Juan County is full of more businesses than are listed here. Start exploring, and let’s make this a season to remember!
HEALTH & BEAUTY:
Elk Ridge Wellness: If someone on your Christmas is tired of trying to feel good, wants to take more time for their health but doesn’t know how, or is dealing with chronic pain get them a gift certificate to Elk Ridge Wellness. Give the person you love the gift of better health. Shop online at elkridgewellness.com or stop by at 265 N Main in Monticello.
The Gym Monticello: If you have a fitness enthusiast on your shopping list, a membership to The Gym is sure to hit the spot. Punch passes, tanning passes, and couple passes are all available. Stop by or shop online at thegymmonticello.com.
Shimmer and Shine Beauty Salon: Being pampered is underrated. Not only do you leave the salon looking better but you get to take a break from life so you feel better too. Give the gift of inner peace and outer beauty. Stop by at 48 W 100 S in Monticello.
TREATS & FOOD
The Over Bite: The Over Bite changed owners this last year but is still fantastic. This cafe hosts an array of amazing sandwiches, smoothies, sour dough, and breakfast. This is a great choice for quick meals that are on the healthier side. Stop by 133 E Center St to get gift cards.
Thatzza Pizza: Nothing quite hits like a pizza party. This is the takeout or dine in dinner that the whole family can get on board with. Have a brother-in-law you don’t know how to shop for? They want pizza for the whole family. Stop by 201 S Main.
Don’t forget the other local eateries. Nobody is sad when they get to eat out. Consider the gift of not having to cook – or clean up this holiday season. Don’t forget High Desert Cafe, Pin Up Boutique and Cafe, Doug’s BBQ, Gustavo’s, and Ja-Roen Thai & Sushi for a fast and welcomed Christmas gift.
KIDS & STOCKING STUFFERS:
Hole-n-the-Rock: Trade more toys and stuff this year for a fun experience that sticks with you. Consider tickets to the Hole-in-the-Rock museum and/or petting zoo for a fun day trip that your kids will remember for ages. Shop at theholeintherock.com.
Monticello Merc: Have you seen the locals section in the Monticello Merc? This beautifully curated collection of local items is my top pick for shopping local this holiday season. Local businesses such as Custom Treasures have filled shelves with custom knives, art, apparel, cups, home signs, and much more. Stop by to shop this collection and you will definitely cross off a few names on your list.
Monticello Visitor Center - Local’s Corner: Monticello believes in promoting their small business and shows it by hosting a large “local’s corner” in their visitor center. This “corner” takes up most of their gift shop and highlights the talent throughout San Juan County. Items include books, artwork, hats, wood work, and more.
Unique Gifts and Creations: Unique Gifts and Creations is mostly known for its craft supplies and kits. This year, I wanted to highlight the fantastic collection of kids gifts and toys they have curated. They have puzzles, games, and so much more! Stop in to check off most of your shopping in one go.
SPORTSMAN
& OUTDOORS:
Deeter Custom Saddlery: Located in La Sal, Deeter Custom Saddlery created more than just saddles. Their gorgeous bridles, wallets, spur straps, and belts will delight the horseman (or woman) that you are shopping for this Christmas season. Shop online at deetercustomsaddlery.com.
Gs3 Outfitters: Give your loved one the gift of a San Juan County jeeping adventure. CS3 Outfitters hosts jeeping tours throughout La Sal, Monticello, & Moab. Get out and explore the parts of San Juan County you haven’t seen before. Shop online at GS3outfitters.com.
Mountain Joe’s Trail Rides: While Mountain Joe’s offers horseback train rides in the La Sal Mountains my favorite service is their wagon rides. Wagons can be rented for special occasions, can fit up to 16 passengers, and are pulled by beautiful Belgian draft horses. Book your family’s wagon ride and create a magical memory to last a lifetime. Learn more at rmountainjoestrailrides.com
Westcott Motors: Currently Westcott Motors is offering a $500 Visa gift card with any purchase from their current inventory of vehicles. If you truly want to give a Christmas gift that lights up a loved one’s day, consider a car from Westcott Motors in Monticello. Don’t forget the giant bow!
FUN NIGHT STAYS:
I will pitch this idea every single year. The women in your life want a night, or a weekend, completely alone. Consider the gift of a night alone in one of the unique stays available in the northern half of San Juan County. More than just a hotel room, San Juan County has: Atomic Blue Motor Inn, Blue Mountain Vacations (where you can stay in a yurt!), Canyonlands Domes, Glamping Canyonlands, and Mount Peale Country Cabins.
HOME & COMFORT:
Main St Drug: The go-to shop for gorgeous and fun home decor. From everything Christmas to signs and art, Main St Drug has what you need to create a lovely home for the holidays. They also boast a large section of stocking stuffer items for anyone on your list.
San Juan Record: While I have been devastated to hear that San Juan Record is closing its bookstore, they do still have a few more items that you scoop up for the reader in your life, and you can get them at a discounted price while supplies last. Stop on in and stock up before you miss out.
Your list is calling, and your local businesses are excited to help you find gifts that bring cheer to everyone on it.
As we wrap up, I want to celebrate the small businesses not featured here. These are your neighbors—dedicated, passionate, and pouring their hearts into their work. They’re creating amazing things, often behind the scenes, with every bit of energy they’ve got.
If you need more ideas, check out your local Facebook groups for incredible finds. Happy shopping, and thank you for making your community brighter with every local purchase!