Cortez Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Cortez, Colorado with this comprehensive travel guide featuring activities, attractions, dining, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Cortez

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Colorado, Cortez is a charming town that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. It’s located in Montezuma County and is the commercial center of the area. The town is surrounded by beautiful mesas, mountains, and valleys, all of which offer a unique (and breathtaking) view of the American Southwest.

Cortez has a rich history that spans over centuries. Native American tribes like the Anasazi have lived in the region for thousands of years, leaving behind a legacy of architecture and cultural importance. Later, the town was founded in 1886 and was initially called “Cortez Junction.” It grew as a transport hub for agriculture, mining, and oil production.

Today, Cortez has become a popular tourist destination, thanks to its rich history, natural beauty, and exciting attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Cortez

If you’re planning a trip to Cortez, here are some of the must-visit places in and around the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Canyon of the Ancients National Monument: This is one of the most significant cultural sites in the country, with over 6,000 documented archeological sites. It is home to the largest concentration of Ancestral Puebloan architecture and artifacts in the United States.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most popular attractions in Cortez. It features the remains of the Ancestral Pueblo people, who once lived in elaborate cliff dwellings over 700 years ago.
  • The Cortez Cultural Center: The center celebrates the cultural heritage of the Native American tribes that once lived in the area. It features a variety of exhibits and performances.

Natural Attractions of Cortez: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hovenweep National Monument: This park features six pre-Columbian pueblo-era villages built between AD 1200 and 1300. It is one of the best places in the area to witness ancient architecture and history.
  • Phil’s World: For mountain biking enthusiasts, Phil’s World is a must-visit destination. It features over 60 miles of trails that cater to all skill levels.
  • San Juan National Forest: This forest covers over 1.8 million acres and offers visitors the chance to hike, fish, camp, and explore the great outdoors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cortez

Cortez has ample hiking and biking routes, suitable for all levels. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Mesa Verde National Park: The park has over 100 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to difficult hikes. The Prater Ridge Trail is one of the most scenic and challenging routes.
  • Phil’s World: This mountain biking route is suitable for riders of all levels and offers plenty of thrills and scenic views.
  • San Juan National Forest: The forest has over 2,000 miles of trails that wind through valleys and over mountain passes, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Cortez: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Jeep Tour: A Jeep tour is the best way to explore Cortez’s charming countryside and its rugged terrain. Companies like Mild to Wild Rafting offer guided tours that take you through the stunning landscapes in the area.
  • Go Whitewater Rafting: The Dolores River is one of the best places in the area to go whitewater rafting. Cortez-based companies like Mild to Wild Rafting offer guided trips suitable for all skill levels.
  • Visit Wineries: Cortez is home to a variety of wineries that offer tours and tastings. The Sutcliffe Vineyards and Guy Drew Vineyards are popular destinations for wine lovers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cortez

Cortez is a small town, but it has plenty to offer visitors. Here’s a week-long itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in the area:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Mesa Verde National Park
Day 2 Explore the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument
Day 3 Go mountain biking at Phil’s World
Day 4 Whitewater rafting on the Dolores River
Day 5 Visit the Cortez Cultural Center and the Anasazi Heritage Center
Day 6 Take a Jeep tour of the countryside
Day 7 Attend a wine tasting at a local vineyard

Food and Drink Scene of Cortez

Cortez has a burgeoning food and drink scene that is a reflection of the town’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Navajo Tacos: A staple of Navajo cuisine, Navajo tacos are fry bread that is topped with various savory toppings such as beans, cheese, and meat.
  • Green Chili Stew: This spicy stew is made with green chilies, meat, and potatoes and is a popular dish in the region.
  • Baked Trout: Trout is a popular fish in the area, and it’s often roasted or baked with lemon and herbs to enhance its flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Colorado Craft Beer: Cortez has a thriving craft beer scene, with a variety of breweries like the Dolores River Brewery and the Mancos Brewing Company, offering a range of unique brews.
  • Local Wines: Cortez is home to several wineries that produce high-quality wines using locally grown grapes. The Sutcliffe Vineyards and Guy Drew Vineyards are two popular wineries in the area.

Where to Stay in Cortez: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cortez has several lodging options for travelers such as hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Far View Lodge (Mesa Verde National Park): The Far View Lodge is located within the Mesa Verde National Park and offers stunning views of the park. It’s perfect for travelers who want to be close to nature.
  • Aneth Lodge Budget 6 (Cortez): The Aneth Lodge Budget 6 is located in the heart of Cortez and offers budget-friendly lodging options.
  • Tomahawk Lodge (Cortez): The Tomahawk Lodge is a good mid-range option that offers spacious rooms and a convenient location.

What to Buy in Cortez: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cortez is known for its distinctive local products, which are perfect souvenirs to bring back home. Here are some things to look for:

  • Native American Arts and Crafts: The region is home to several Native American tribes, each with its own unique arts and crafts tradition. Look out for jewelry, pottery, and textiles that reflect the culture and heritage of the region.
  • Local Honey: The high altitude and varied terrain of the area make Cortez an ideal location for beekeeping. Look for locally produced honey, which is known for its unique taste and quality.
  • Colorado Craft Beer and Wines: Cortez has a thriving craft beer and wine scene, so make sure to bring home some local brews and wines that reflect the unique flavors and styles of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Cortez

Cortez has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the diversity of the Southwest. The town is home to several Native American tribes, each with its own unique culture and traditions. Visitors should ensure that they respect the traditions and customs of the local communities.

Best Time to Visit Cortez

The best time to visit Cortez is from March to May and September to November. These months offer mild weather and fewer crowds. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and crowded, while the winter months (December to February) can be snowbound, making it difficult to explore the outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cortez

Do:

  • Respect Native American Culture: Cortez is home to several Native American communities, and visitors should respect their culture and customs.
  • Explore the Outdoors: Cortez is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and is known for its outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rafting.
  • Visit the Historical Sites: Cortez is a town with a rich history, and visitors should explore the several historical sites around the area.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Visitors should be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
  • Trespass: Visitors should respect private property and avoid trespassing on private land.
  • Disturb Wildlife: Cortez is home to a variety of wildlife, and visitors should respect their habitat and avoid disturbing them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cortez

Cortez is a relatively safe town, with low crime rates. However, visitors should keep an eye on their belongings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Cortez

Cortez has several medical facilities, including a hospital and clinics. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Cortez: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cortez

  • Cortez Municipal Airport is the closest airport to the town.
  • Durango La Plata County Airport is another option, which is located about 45 miles away from Cortez.

Bus Stations Near Cortez

  • Cortez Greyhound Bus Station is the primary bus station in the area.

Other Options

Cortez is connected to several major highways, including US-160, US-491, and US-666.

How to Get Around in Cortez

Cortez is a small town and is easily navigable on foot or by car. Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the area or take guided tours to see the sights.

Where to Go Next from Cortez: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cortez is located in the southwestern corner of Colorado and is surrounded by several exciting nearby destinations. Here are some of the best excursions from Cortez:

  • Durango: This charming mountain town is located about 45 miles from Cortez and offers visitors a chance to explore the Colorado Rockies.
  • Telluride: Telluride is located about 100 miles from Cortez and is known for its skiing, nightlife, and stunning views.
  • Moab, Utah: Moab is located about 100 miles from Cortez and offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area, including Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

Conclusion

Cortez is a unique and exciting destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Southwest. From exploring ancient ruins to whitewater rafting, there’s something for everyone in this charming Colorado town.