Cortez
Located eight miles from the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park, many consider Cortez the cultural center of Mesa Verde Country. Strong agricultural traditions and Native American heritage characterize this town, located in the the valley that is shadowed by Mesa Verde. Ancient cliff dwellings, cowboys and farms mingle harmoniously below the surrounding mountains.
Archaeological Center of America
Cortez was a part of the Old Spanish Trail—the route that connected northern New Mexico, California and southern Colorado starting in the late 16th century, and is still considered the trade center of the Four Corners region. Its culture is steeped in the ancient history of the indigenous people who still call this high desert valley home. See intricate artwork, artifacts and customs of the native people at the Cortez Cultural Center. And make Cortez your base camp for the 114-mile Trail of the Ancients scenic byway, that tours through natural wonders and archaeological points of interest.Locally sourced cuisine, Colorado wines and craft breweries mark the agricultural traditions that date back to the Ancestral Puebloans’ cultivation here.
Things To Do in Cortez
Main Attractions
- Tour Mesa Verde National Park
- Hike or ride to archeological sites in Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
- Visit Hovenweep National Monument
- Attend American Indian dances at the Cortez Cultural Center
You'll find the Cortez community near the Sleeping Ute Mountain and the “green table” of Mesa Verde, just 10 minutes from the park. Learn about the cultural heritage of the region at the Cortez Cultural Center, and walk through it at the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument or Hovenweep National Monument. After you visit these sites, you'll leave steeped in the history of the Ancestral Puebloan people, from the places they lived to the tools they used in everyday life.
In less ancient history, Cortez was on the Old Spanish Trail, which ran from northern New Mexico to California and southern Colorado in the late 1500s. Today’s trails are a little different, though — more tailored to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders than mules and merchants. Ride past artifacts on the Sand Canyon Trails in the Canyons of the Ancients or whoop it up across the Phil’s World trail network. Cruise the accessible trails in the Carpenter Natural Area and watch for wildlife and archaeological sites in Hawkins Preserve as you hike, bike, rock climb or stargaze.
Given its proximity to the more than 600 acres of parks, trails and open spaces, as well as the depth of history, it’s particularly convenient that Cortez has so much to offer in the way of dining and lodging. The community near the Four Corners (where the borders of Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico meet) has retained its connection to its earliest roots of agriculture, which shines through in the locally sourced dishes at unique local restaurants.
One of the best ways to take in as many of Cortez’s gems as possible is to follow the 114-mile Trail of the Ancients scenic byway. This route tours the natural wonders that surround Cortez and its numerous archaeological sites.
Explore what Cortez has to offer below! Accommodations Arts and Culture Attractions and Entertainment Food and Drink History and Heritage