Towaoc Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Towaoc with our complete travel guide, featuring must-see attractions, hiking routes, local food and drink, accommodations, and more.


Discover Towaoc: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Towaoc is a small town located in Southwestern Colorado, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The town is rich in Native American history and culture, and offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to see and do in Towaoc, along with recommendations for where to stay, what to eat, and how to stay safe and healthy during your visit.

Introduction to Towaoc

Towaoc is a part of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, which has occupied the area for over 2,000 years. The town is home to the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel, which features gaming, dining, and entertainment options, as well as a museum and gift shop that showcase the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe’s history and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Towaoc

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ute Mountain Casino Hotel
  • Ute Indian Museum and Gift Shop
  • Weeminuche Construction Authority Historic Site

Natural Attractions of Towaoc: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ute Mountain Tribal Park
  • Canyon of the Ancients National Monument
  • San Juan National Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Towaoc

  • Ute Mountain Tribal Park - Mesa Verde Overlook Trail
  • Canyon of the Ancients National Monument - Painted Hand Pueblo Trail
  • San Juan National Forest - Bear Creek Trail

Best Things to Do in Towaoc: Activities and Tours

  • Ute Mountain Tribal Park Tour
  • Casino Gaming and Entertainment
  • Cultural Demonstrations and Workshops

Week-Long Itinerary for Towaoc

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Towaoc and check into the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel
2 Take a tour of the Ute Mountain Tribal Park
3 Visit the Ute Indian Museum and Gift Shop
4 Explore Canyon of the Ancients National Monument
5 Go hiking in San Juan National Forest
6 Attend a cultural demonstration or workshop
7 Enjoy gaming, dining, and entertainment at the casino

Food and Drink Scene of Towaoc

Must-Try Dishes

  • Handmade Fry Bread
  • Navajo Tacos
  • Red Chile Stew

Local Beverages

  • Ute Premium Lager
  • Tribal Moon Wine
  • Juniper Berry Tea

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

  • Ute Mountain Casino Hotel
  • Ute Mountain RV Park & Campground
  • Ute Mountain Teepees

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

  • Handmade Jewelry
  • Pottery and Ceramics
  • Native American Artwork

Local Culture and Customs of Towaoc

The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect tribal customs and traditions. Some cultural norms include:

  • It is customary to ask permission before taking photographs of tribal members or their belongings.
  • Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting cultural sites or attending events.
  • Gift-giving is an important part of tribal culture, and visitors should be prepared to offer small tokens of appreciation to their hosts or guides.

Best Time to Visit Towaoc

The best time to visit Towaoc is during the summer months, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are plentiful. The fall is also a great time to visit, as the changing leaves create a stunning backdrop for hiking and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Towaoc

Do:

  • Learn about and respect tribal customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting cultural sites or attending events.
  • Take precautions to prevent wildfires during the dry season.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of tribal members or their belongings without permission.
  • Handle or disturb archaeological or cultural sites.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Towaoc

Towaoc is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some tips include:

  • Always lock your car and hotel room doors.
  • Keep valuables out of sight in your car.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Towaoc

Towaoc is located at a high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness or dehydration. Be sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks when engaging in strenuous activities. In case of a medical emergency, dial 911.

Getting to Towaoc: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Towaoc

  • Durango-La Plata County Airport
  • Grand Junction Regional Airport
  • Albuquerque International Sunport

Bus Stations Near Towaoc

  • Cortez Greyhound Station
  • Durango Transit Center

Other Options

  • Private ground transportation services are available.
  • Rental cars are available at major airports and cities.

How to Get Around in Towaoc

The best way to get around Towaoc is by car, as public transportation is limited. Rental cars are available at major airports and cities, and some hotels and campgrounds offer shuttle services.

Where to Go Next from Towaoc: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mesa Verde National Park
  • Four Corners Monument
  • Moab, Utah

Conclusion

Towaoc is a hidden gem in Southwestern Colorado, offering a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and natural wonders. Whether you’re interested in learning about Native American history, hiking through ancient ruins, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Towaoc has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of this special place.