Angel of Shavano

Each spring, the snows of the southern Rocky Mountains begin to melt, bringing fresh water down the slopes. This water feeds the forests, streams, and rivers, and in turn, the drinking water, agriculture, and tourism that fuels the entire region. The eastern face of Mount Shavano in particular manifests the image of an angel in its snowfields, providing a symbol for the gift of fresh water.

Geologists and climate specialists might explain this annual phenomenon by referencing the shape and temperatures of Shavano’s slopes. Others, however, have far more interesting explanations.

The most popular origin myth of the Angel of Shavano begins with a drought. As the valley dried up and game became scarce, an Indian princess went to the foot of Mount Shavano to pray for water. The gods agreed to bring the water back, but on the condition that the princess sacrificed herself. The princess agreed, and the gods transformed her into an angel. Each spring, she cries for her people, bringing fresh water to the valley below.

Another legend includes the mountain’s namesake, Chief Shavano of the Tabeguache band of Southern Utes. According to the story, Shavano befriended a white scout named George Beckworth. When the chief’s friend became injured, he prayed at the foot of the mountain for the gods to help him. The gods then made an angel on the mountain’s slopes to send a sign that the prayer had been heard and answered.

There are several other versions of the tale, with some including the god Jupiter turning a girl into a snowfield as a punishment, or casting Beckworth as a freedman named Jim. Whatever the cause of the annual apparition, the Angel of Shavano has continued to reliably appear and bring fresh water to the grateful people of the valley.