Discover the Mystical Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Explore the awe-inspiring Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, a unique blend of natural beauty and rich archaeological history in Colorado.
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is a breathtaking landscape in Colorado, renowned for its rich archaeological sites, stunning natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. This hidden gem offers a unique glimpse into the ancient cultures that once thrived in the area, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking adventure and history.
A brief summary to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
- Montezuma and Dolores counties, CO, US
- +1970-882-5600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center to learn about the area's rich history and get maps for hiking trails.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the monument.
- Check the weather before you visit, as conditions can change quickly in the canyon.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Respect the archaeological sites and stay on designated trails to preserve the monument's integrity.
Getting There
-
Public Transit
From Monument, take the nearest public bus to Colorado Springs. Once you arrive in Colorado Springs, transfer to the bus that goes to Durango. Be sure to check the local transit schedules for connections. Once you reach Durango, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, which is approximately 45 miles away. Make sure to tell the driver your destination.
-
Bicycle
If you're up for a long bike ride, start from Monument heading southwest on the Santa Fe Trail. Continue on the trail until you reach the intersection with Highway 105. Follow Highway 105 southwest until you reach the junction with Highway 87. Take Highway 87 south to connect with Highway 160. Continue on Highway 160 until you reach the area near Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. This route is approximately 80 miles and may take several hours, so plan accordingly and ensure you have supplies.
-
Walking
Walking directly to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument from Monument is not feasible due to the distance. However, you can walk to a nearby bus station to catch public transit to Colorado Springs first. From there, follow the public transit guidance to Durango and then take a taxi or rideshare service to your destination.
Discover more about Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Painted Hand Pueblo
8.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Painted Hand Pueblo, a historical landmark that reveals the rich cultural heritage of Colorado's Ancestral Puebloans amidst stunning natural beauty.
Lowry Pueblo
12.0 km
Discover the ancient heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans at Lowry Pueblo, a captivating historical landmark in Colorado's scenic landscape.
McElmo Canyon
21.8 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Escalante Pueblo
29.9 km
Explore the ancient heritage of the Pueblo people at Escalante Pueblo, a captivating historical landmark in Dolores, Colorado.
Yucca House National Monument
31.0 km
Explore the ancient Puebloan ruins at Yucca House National Monument, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty in Cortez, Colorado.
Megalithic House
42.8 km
Explore the Megalithic House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark that reveals the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations amidst stunning natural beauty.
Coyote Village
43.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Mesa Verde Administrative District
48.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Alkali Ridge Historical Marker
49.2 km
Discover the historical treasures of Alkali Ridge in Blanding, Utah, where ancient cultures and breathtaking landscapes converge for an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hovenweep National Monument
19.8 km
Explore Hovenweep National Monument, a stunning archaeological site in Utah showcasing ancient Puebloan culture amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance
29.7 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage at the Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance, your gateway to adventure in the heart of Colorado.
Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum
29.9 km
Uncover the ancient stories of the Ancestral Puebloans at Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum in Dolores, Colorado.
Far View Reservoir
42.9 km
Explore the ancient engineering marvel of Far View Reservoir in Mesa Verde National Park, where history and breathtaking landscapes intertwine.
Far View Tower
43.0 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Far View Tower in Mesa Verde National Park, where history and breathtaking views converge in a unique archaeological adventure.
Far View House
43.2 km
Explore the ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins at Far View House in Mesa Verde National Park, a captivating blend of history and breathtaking scenery.
Step House
44.1 km
Discover Step House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark showcasing the ancient Puebloan culture amidst stunning natural beauty.
Wetherill Mesa Information
44.1 km
Experience the rich heritage and stunning landscapes at Wetherill Mesa Information Center in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Montezuma Valley Overlook
44.2 km
Discover the stunning vistas and serene beauty at Montezuma Valley Overlook, a scenic gem in Colorado's captivating landscapes.
Long House
44.9 km
Discover the incredible history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Long House, a stunning archaeological site in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Mesa Verde Visitor & Research Center
45.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans at Mesa Verde Visitor & Research Center, your gateway to Colorado's breathtaking ancient cliff dwellings.
Mancos Valley Overlook
46.2 km
Explore the stunning Mancos Valley Overlook, a must-see vista point in Colorado, showcasing breathtaking views and serene landscapes.
Mesa Verde National Park
46.6 km
Explore the breathtaking cliff dwellings and rich cultural heritage of Mesa Verde National Park, a must-visit destination for history and nature lovers.
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
48.1 km
Explore the ancient heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans at Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum in Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Petroglyph Point Trail
48.1 km
Discover the enchanting Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park, where ancient rock art and stunning natural beauty converge for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
47.9 km
Discover the flavors of America at Spruce Tree Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park – where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty.
Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ
54.2 km
Experience authentic barbecue at Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ in Blanding, UT – where delicious flavors meet friendly service.
Yaks Café
54.3 km
Discover Yaks Café in Blanding, UT - your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and cozy café vibes amidst Utah's stunning landscapes.
Arch Canyon Inn
54.3 km
Experience comfort and hospitality at Arch Canyon Inn in Blanding, Utah – your gateway to exploring breathtaking natural landscapes.
Patio Diner
54.4 km
Discover delightful burgers and a cozy atmosphere at Patio Diner in Blanding, Utah – your perfect pit stop for comfort food.
Rodeway Inn & Suites
54.4 km
Experience comfort and explore stunning landscapes at Rodeway Inn & Suites in Blanding, Utah—your gateway to outdoor adventures.
Prospector Motor Lodge
54.5 km
Discover comfort and hospitality at Prospector Motor Lodge in Blanding, Utah—your gateway to stunning national parks.
Southway Trading llc
54.5 km
Discover Southway Trading LLC in Blanding: Your go-to convenience store with gas, pizza, and ice cream delights.
Four Corners Inn
54.5 km
Discover comfort at Four Corners Inn in Blanding - your gateway to Utah's stunning national parks and rich cultural heritage.
Homestead Steak House
54.5 km
Discover Homestead Steak House: A Premier Dining Experience with Mouthwatering Steaks and Heartfelt Hospitality in Blanding, Utah.
Bears Ears Inn
54.7 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Bears Ears Inn in Blanding, Utah—your gateway to nature's wonders.
Subway
54.7 km
Discover fresh sandwiches at Subway in Blanding—your go-to spot for delicious meals while exploring Utah's natural wonders.
A&W Restaurant
54.8 km
Experience classic American fast food at A&W Restaurant in Blanding - home of delicious burgers and refreshing root beer floats.
Cowboy Camp House
54.8 km
Discover comfort and adventure at Cowboy Camp House in Blanding, Utah – your perfect getaway amidst stunning landscapes.
Canyon Country Bowling Center and A&W Restaurant
54.8 km
Discover family-friendly entertainment with bowling and classic American dining at Canyon Country Bowling Center & A&W Restaurant in Blanding, Utah.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Station Boutique
29.8 km
Discover unique fashion and local artistry at The Station Boutique in Cortez, Colorado—your go-to destination for one-of-a-kind finds.
Notah Dineh Trading Co
29.9 km
Discover authentic Native American art and crafts at Notah Dineh Trading Co, a unique gift shop, art gallery, and museum in Cortez, Colorado.
Merriweather Home + Market
30.1 km
Explore Merriweather Home + Market in Cortez, CO, for unique gifts, local crafts, and a boutique shopping experience that captures the heart of Colorado.
Cliffrose on Market
30.2 km
Explore the charm of Cliffrose on Market in Cortez, CO - a unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artistic delights.
High Desert Life Outdoors & Exchange
30.2 km
Discover the ultimate outdoor gear and local treasures at High Desert Life Outdoors & Exchange in Cortez, Colorado.
Love On A Hanger
30.3 km
Explore Love On A Hanger in Cortez, CO for unique women's fashion, accessories, and gifts that capture the essence of local style and charm.
Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
30.5 km
Discover the elegance of bridal wear and unique fashion at Say Yes Bridal & Boutique in Cortez, Colorado, a must-visit for fashion-forward shoppers.
LaDawn's
30.6 km
Explore LaDawn's Consignment Shop in Cortez, Colorado, for unique finds and vintage treasures that showcase local culture and charm.
Anna's Mini Treasure
30.7 km
Explore Anna's Mini Treasure: A Craft Store Filled with Unique Handmade Goods and Local Artistry.
Antique Corral
30.7 km
Explore the Antique Corral in Cortez, CO - a hidden gem filled with vintage treasures and unique collectibles for every enthusiast.
Buffalo Bob's Co-op
31.2 km
Explore Buffalo Bob's Co-op in Cortez, Colorado for unique home goods and handcrafted treasures reflecting local artistry.
Thunderbird Trading Company
32.5 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and gifts at Thunderbird Trading Company in Cortez, Colorado, a cultural gem for discerning travelers.
Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
33.9 km
Explore nature's beauty at Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts, where unique plants meet thoughtful gifts in the heart of Cortez, Colorado.
Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
42.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sinclair Gas Station
42.5 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Buckskin Bar
23.9 km
Discover the culinary charm of Buckskin Bar, a mobile catering gem serving fresh, local flavors that delight every palate.
Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
29.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Angel's End Zone Sports Bar in Cortez, Colorado, where delicious food and sports unite for an unforgettable experience.
ZU Gallery
30.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of art and wine at ZU Gallery in Cortez, Colorado, where creativity and culture come together in a vibrant setting.
WildEdge Brewing Collective
30.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer at WildEdge Brewing Collective, a must-visit brewpub in Cortez, Colorado, offering a unique selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Loungin' Lizard
30.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors of Loungin' Lizard, a top dining destination in Cortez, Colorado.
Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
30.3 km
Experience the essence of Colorado craft brewing at Main Street Brewery & Restaurant, where delicious food meets artisanal beers in Cortez.
Blondies Trophy Room
30.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Blondies Trophy Room, a beloved grill in Cortez, Colorado, offering delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
31.4 km
Experience the best of traditional American cuisine and craft brews at J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery in Cortez, Colorado.
Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
31.7 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
The Wigglin’ Pig
32.0 km
Experience the heart of Cortez at The Wigglin’ Pig, where delicious breakfast dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
The Meltdown
32.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and welcoming ambiance at The Meltdown, a must-visit restaurant in Cortez, Colorado.
Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
32.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant in Cortez, where every meal is a celebration of culture and community.
Kuchu's Restaurant
35.4 km
Experience the heart of Colorado’s culinary delights at Kuchu's Restaurant, where local flavors and hospitality come together.
Metate Room
42.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of American cuisine at the Metate Room, where stunning views and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Far View Lounge
42.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Lounge in Mesa Verde National Park.
