Mesa Verde Country, Colorado

06/06/2026

In honor of National Trails Day, what is your favorite trail to hike or ride in Mesa Verde Country?

06/03/2026

Looking to bring a piece of the Southwest home with you?

Located in Cortez, Ute Mountain Indian Trading (you may recognize it by the “Mesa Verde Pottery” sign outside!) is a longtime local shop filled with Native American-inspired art, decor, textiles, pottery, jewelry, and handmade crafts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

It’s the perfect place to browse for unique gifts, admire local artistry, and add a little Southwest style to your Mesa Verde Country adventure.

06/01/2026

The fifth annual Southeast Utah AstroFest is next week, June 4–7!

Events at Hovenweep will occur on Sunday, June 7th. A ranger program kicks things off at the visitor center starting at 8:30 p.m. followed by telescope viewing at two different stations from 9:30 until 11:00 p.m. We'll bring the stories, telescopes, and complimentary snacks (while supplies last). All you have to bring is a flashlight, sturdy shoes, layers, friends & family, and a little curiosity.

Check out our website for details: https://ow.ly/p4W450Z3vAv

Photo c/o Marjorie Van Hoy

05/28/2026

History lovers, this one’s for you!

If you haven’t visited the Montezuma Heritage Museum in Cortez yet, add it to your Mesa Verde Country bucket list. From local stories and artifacts to rotating exhibits and community events, the museum does an incredible job preserving the rich history and culture of the region.

And this summer, there’s even more to explore across Mesa Verde Country, including fascinating events like Chasing Ghosts: A Bike Ride with Butch Cassidy & His Wild Bunch on Saturday, June 20 at 2 PM at the Mancos Opera House.

Historian Andrew Gulliford and adventurer Brett Davis will dive into the legends and realities of Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch, sharing stories from a modern mountain bike expedition along the historic outlaw trail. It’s a unique look at the Wild West, adventure, and the stories that still capture our imagination today.

https://montezumamuseum.org/events-2/

05/25/2026

Memorial Day plans?

Celebrate the long weekend today with free entrance to all national parks, including our incredible Mesa Verde National Park! From ancient cliff dwellings to scenic overlooks and hiking trails, it’s the perfect time to explore the beauty and history of the Southwest.

Pro tip: Arrive early, bring plenty of water, and make a full day of it!

05/22/2026

🚐 Happy National Road Trip Day! 🚐

If your dream road trip includes towering cliffs, ancient history, red rock deserts, alpine lakes, and star-filled skies… this Colorado + Utah National Parks adventure belongs on your bucket list.

Here’s a quick day-by-day snapshot of the ultimate Southwest road trip:

- Day 1: Denver to Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO
- Day 2-3: Mesa Verde National Park and Mesa Verde Country, CO
- Day 4: Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and Cortez, CO
- Day 5: Canyonlands National Park, UT
- Day 6: Monument Valley, AZ
- Day 7: Page, AZ
- Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
- Day 9: Zion National Park, UT
- Day 10: Bryce Canyon National Park, UT
- Day 11: Capitol Reef National Park, UT
- Day 12-13: Moab and Arches National Park, UT
- Day 14: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO
- Day 15-16: Grand Lake, Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Along the way, you’ll discover cliff dwellings, scenic byways, small mountain towns, ancient Indigenous history, epic hiking trails, dark skies, and some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the American West.

Mesa Verde Country makes the perfect stop to slow down, explore ancient sites, grab local food and drinks, and experience the rich culture and history of the Four Corners region before continuing your adventure!

Ready to hit the road? Check out the full itinerary here:

The ultimate Colorado-Utah national parks road trip itinerary, including the Grand Canyon. Take your time on this road trip of a lifetime!

05/13/2026

What's your favorite place to stay in (or near) Cortez, CO when you visit Mesa Verde National Park?

05/08/2026

Are you ready to celebrate American Craft Beer Week from May 11-17th?

There’s no better place to raise a glass than right here in Mesa Verde Country, where small-town charm meets seriously good craft beer. From laid-back patios to mountain views and locally inspired brews, our local breweries are the perfect way to toast the season:

- In Cortez, check out WildEdge Brewing Collective and Coffee for creative, small-batch beers with a fun, community vibe.

- In Dolores, visit Dolores River Brewery —a local favorite known for great beer, delicious pizza, and live music.

- In Mancos, don’t miss Mancos Brewing Company, where handcrafted brews and a welcoming atmosphere make it easy to stay awhile.

Whether you’re an IPA lover, a stout fan, or just here for the vibes, there’s something for everyone.

📷: Emily Sierra Photography

05/04/2026

Yes - it’s one of our favorite times of year, when the ranger-led tours start up again! They run from May 4th (that's tomorrow!) through October 21st.

This year’s tours include Cliff Palace, Balcony House, Mug House, Oak Tree House, and Square Tower on Chapin Mesa, along with Long House and Step House on Wetherill Mesa.

Tour reservations are only available at www.recreation.gov or by calling toll-free 1-877-444-6777. Reservations open 14 days in advance, beginning at 8:00 AM MDT, and they fill up really quickly, so be ready to make your plans!

Photo by Todd Bacon Photography