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Archaeological site · Cortez, Colorado
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
A national monument with thousands of ancestral Pueblo sites, with a museum in Dolores and ruins such as Lowry Pueblo and Escalante Pueblo.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
The Canyons of the Ancients National Monument protects one of the largest concentrations of archaeological sites in the United States, with thousands of remains of the ancestral Pueblo peoples spread across mesas and canyons west and north of Cortez.
The starting point is the Dolores Heritage Center, about 15 km from Cortez, a museum with objects found in the area, reconstructions of dwellings and exhibits about the lives of the ancestral peoples. Beside the museum, a short trail climbs to the Escalante Pueblo ruins, with views over the valley and the McPhee Reservoir.
Among the sites open to visitors are Lowry Pueblo, with a large kiva, and trails such as Sand Canyon, which pass ruins at the base of the canyon walls. Most of the monument has no facilities, and sites should be visited without touching the walls.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From two hours to a full day.
Best time
In spring and autumn; in summer, early in the morning.
How to get there
The Heritage Center is in Dolores, about 15 km north of Cortez via Highway 184. The sites are scattered along rural roads.
Tip
Start at the Dolores museum to pick up maps and information about the roads and trails before you head to the sites.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Where does the visit to Canyons of the Ancients begin?
At the Dolores Heritage Center, a museum about 15 km north of Cortez.
Which sites to visit in Canyons of the Ancients?
Escalante Pueblo, next to the museum; Lowry Pueblo, with a large kiva; and the Sand Canyon trail.
Do the Canyons of the Ancients sites have facilities?
Few: besides the museum there are trails and signs at some sites. Bring water and respect the ruins.