The Cortez, Dolores and Mancos area was once the heart of the ancestral Pueblo (Anasazi) civilization. Step back in time at archaeological sites in Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep, and Ute Mountain Tribal Park. Visit the Anasazi Heritage Center, tour a working archaeological site, and enjoy Indian dances and cultural programs. Our area offers outstanding fishing and boating at McPhee Lake (Colorado's second largest), rafting, hiking, biking, and golf. In winter cross-country ski, snowmobile, or stay with selected lodging properties and ski Telluride for a reduced price. Eat at great restaurants, enjoy western entertainment, and shop for quality Native American art.

Dolores is home to McPhee Lake - Colorado's second largest, with great boating, water skiing, and fishing. The Dolores River also provides exceptional fishing and rafting. The Anasazi Heritage Center is just a few miles from town, and Dolores' railroad history can be experienced by visiting the Rio Grand Southern Railroad Museum and the completely restored Galloping Goose #5. Dolores is home to a wide variety of year-round outdoor recreational activities and a great headquarters for hunters in the fall.

The Mancos Valley, located at the edge of the cool San Juan Mountains and National Forest, continues its long tradition as a ranching community. The first white men to discover Mesa Verde rode there from their Mancos Valley ranch in search of stray cattle. The town still retains its Wild West character, with it's stagecoach rides and local shops that offer western clothing, cowboy hats, and Indian jewelry. Fishing, biking, hiking and x-country skiing are some of the many activities available at Mancos' doorstep.

Visitor Information Bureau
P.O. Drawer HH
Cortez, CO 81321
(800) 253-1616
Mesa Verde Country Website
Email: lynnd@mesaverdecountry.com