2012 Tourist Guide by Cortez Journal

SouthweSt Color ado 2012 ViSitor Guide

Publisher — Suzy Meyer Advertising Director — Mark Drudge Section Editor — Dale Shrull Cover photo — Sam Green Layout and Production— Linda McDarby Contributing writers and photographers: Kimberly Benedict, Michael Maresh, Reid Wright, Bobby Abplanalp, Dale Shrull, Russell Smyth, Suzy Meyer, Domino Hawks, Shannon Livick, Jeanne Archambeault, Sam Green, Kelly Jackson. Contents Communities of the Area ------------------------------ Page 3 Events Calendar ---------------------------------------- Page 8 Visitor’s Center ---------------------------------------- Page 12 Cortez Attractions ------------------------------------- Page 14 Recreation --------------------------------------------- Page 21 Archaeology areas ------------------------------------- Page 28 Mesa Verde -------------------------------------------- Page 32 Dining Guide ------------------------------------------ Page 43 Lodging Guide ----------------------------------------- Page 46 Published by the Cortez Journal

Welcome!

ortez and the surrounding area is a splendid destination full of diverse attractions, activities and people.

At the center of the attractions are the numerous archaeological sites around the region that offer a portal to fascinating information about people who once lived in the area. Of these, the crown jewel of attractions is Mesa Verde National Park. The park, filled with ancient sites of Ancestral Puebloans welcomes tens of thousands of visitors a year and offers spectacularly preserved ruins, some more than 2,000 years old. There are a number of other ancient sites to explore, as well as soaking in the Native American culture of the nearby Ute Mountain Ute and Navajo tribes. The recreation opportunities range from mountain biking to golf to water sports and fishing to more. The area truly offers something for everyone. The terrain is just as diverse as the attractions and people. With desert landscapes to the south and the west and high mountain destinations to the north and east. We hope you find this guide to be informational and helpful as you explore the numerous attractions and activities available in and around Cortez. Soak in the culture and diversity of the area, and enjoy your stay!

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Communities Recreation Archaeology History/Culture

Cortez: Crossroads of culture By Reid WRight Cortez Journal

n Christmas Day in 1886, a wagon piled high with lumber rolled on to a dusty cattle roundup ground where leaders from the Montezuma Valley Water Supply Co. had an ambitious vision of raising a thriving agricultural community from the dry, sandy soils of the Montezuma Valley. Knowing the water from nearby Mitchell Springs and a well on Main Street of Cortez would not be enough to support the community, a milelong tunnel was bored through the crumbling sandstone to channel the waters of the Dolores River, which would become the lifeblood of Cortez. Now, 125 years later, the community of Cortez offers a casual, accommodating and affordable place for travelers of the Southwest to stop and rest along the way while enjoying a few attractions off the beaten path. Located 45 miles west of Durango on U.S. Highway 160, Cortez offers a wide spectrum of lodging and dining accommodations. For lodging, the city offers hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, recreational-vehicle parks, campgrounds, guest ranches and vacation home rentals. Dining establishments in the city include family-owned restaurants, fast food, cafes, and diners ranging from home cooking to ethnic foods. Cortez remains at the crossroads of cultures. Located near the edge of the Navajo and Ute Mountain Ute tribal lands, Cortez galleries and shops showcase authentic Native American arts and crafts. The Cortez Cultural Center, 25 N. Market St., features living culture in the

Dining Lodging

The Cortez Cultural Center

form of colorful Native American dances, as well as special cultural programs, such as presentations on the Navajo Code Talkers, after dances. The cultural center also features a museum, art gallery and plethora of classes and activities throughout the summer. Rural farmers and artisans bring fresh produce and goods to the Cortez Farmers Market on Saturdays at the Montezuma County Courthouse, located at 109 W. Main St. For more information on Cortez and the surrounding area, contact the Colorado Welcome Center at 970-565-4048, or stop by at 928 E. Main St.

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Dolores: a summer oasis By SHannon Livick Dolores Star

olores, a small town with a population of around 1,000, is nestled inside the beautiful Dolores River Valley. Dolores is only one mile away from the San Juan National Forest and is the nearest neighbor to McPhee Reservoir, all making Dolores an outdoor enthusiast’s wonderland. The Dolores River Trail As the river slows down in Dolores, so does the pace of life in town. So feel free to stop by, dunk your feet in the Dolores River and spend some time in this cozy town. The river typically peaks around the end of May, making the river a great spot to spend the day, with a book or a picnic. The Dolores River was named by two Spanish Catholic priests, Francisco Anatasio Dominguez and Silvestre Velez de Escalante, as they passed through the area in 1776. On their journey to find a route from the missions of Santa Fe, N.M., to California, they discovered the river and called it “Rio de Nuestra Senora de las Dolores” or the River of Our Lady of Sorrows. That history is celebrated every August with Escalante Days, a smalltown celebration packed with fun.

Although Dolores was platted and developed in 1892, incorporation didn’t occur until July 7, 1900. The Rio Grande Southern Railroad was an important part of the area, connecting Durango, Mancos, Dolores, Rico, Telluride and Ridgway. It was used to haul lumber from McPhee, Glencoe and other sawmills. It was also used to transport ore from the mines, livestock, fruit, cream, honey and other products to distant markets.

4 activities to enjoy while in Dolores 1. Visit the Rio Grande Southern Depot Museum. Located at 421 Railroad Ave. (970-882-7082), the museum is open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also home to the Galloping Goose Historical Society and the Galloping Goose No. 5, a gasoline-powered rail car that operated in the area until 1952. 2. Stroll the River Trail. A good place to start is at Joe Rowell Park; the trail runs along side the Dolores River. 3. Find the black goat. A solitary black goat has lived on the hillside at the entrance of Dolores for over a decade and residents and visitors alike enjoy spotting this beast. But it is a challenge. If you want to try your hand at spotting the goat, park in the parking lot of the Second Chance thrift store and look above the Fire Department and in the rocks. The goat is often napping in one of the caves. 4. Visit the Anasazi Heritage Center. A treasure trove of artifacts, mostly excavated before McPhee Reservoir was built, can be viewed at the center. The Center is open year round and is located at 27501 Highway 184, just outside Dolores 970-882-5600.

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4 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com 4/5/2012 5:32:19 PM

Mancos: Where the old west meets the new By Jeanne archamBeault Mancos Times

ancos was incorporated in 1894; then in 1895, an ordinance was passed against fast riding and driving. It was almost a daily occurrence at the time for several young men of the area to ride through town as fast as their horses would carry them. Ladies crossing the streets complained that their lives were endangered by these young horse racers. By 1904, a water system, electric lights and a telephone service had begun. A new bridge was built across the river in 1905, and an ordinance was passed prohibiting livestock from being turned loose to roam in the town. By 1909, cement sidewalks had been installed around much of the business section, and hitching racks were removed when the cement went in. A few iron rings were put in the sidewalks at various locations for folks to tie their horses while shopping. Mancos is home to art galleries, parks, restaurants, a natural food store and lodging possibilities. If your tendency is to relax at a park in town, Boyle Park, directly behind town hall, offers a children’s playground, restrooms, a paved walking path, a softball field and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view of the picturesque surroundings. Cottonwood Park, located on Spruce Street, has a beautiful walking path along the Mancos River. For recreation and camping, Transfer Recreation Area and Campground is 12 miles northeast of Mancos. (From Mancos, you take Colorado Highway 184 north for .25 miles, then turn east on the West Man-

cos Road, and follow the signs. The road is paved part of the way, and the rest has a good gravel surface.) The campground has 12 sites with some sites suitable for medium-sized recreational vehicles. The Majestic Dude Ranch can be found on the same road — just turn left on Road N. Further down the road is Mancos State Park, with camping sites for recreational vehicles and tents. Jackson Gulch Reservoir is close by, with boating opportunities. Chicken Creek Trail follows the creek down to Jackson Gulch Reservoir. Local outfitters offer horseback rides in the San Juan Mountains and hiking trails can be found in many places. There are a number of community events annually in Mancos. There is music, art, drama and just plain fun. The La Plata Paw is in February, a fun dogsled race that is northeast of Mancos; the Millwood Follies in March raises money for a local cause, and the Mancos Melt brings out locals for bed races and a miniature golf tournament; the annual Farmers Market every Thursday evening in Boyle Park begins in June and goes through September. Our own Mancos Colorado Days is in July which features a Queen’s tea, parade and a softball tournament; and September is a busy month with the Mesa Verde Country/Mancos Valley Balloon Festival and the Sugar Pine Ranch Motorcycle Rally. The whole month of December is an exciting time with holiday events and celebrations. Mancos High School was the first high school in Montezuma County (built in 1909) and is the oldest continuously operating high school in Colorado. Mancos Balloon Festival/photo courtesy Dave McDarby

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Montezuma County remains an agriculture center By Michael Maresh Cortez Journal

ontezuma County is as rural as they come with farming and agriculture still the main staples of the local economy. The county as seen a population increase of a little more than 7 percent over the last 10 years. There are now 25,535 Montezuma County residents, up from 23,830 a decade ago. County Assessor Mark Vanderpool said there is currently 363,628 acres of agricultural land in Montezuma County, which is divided into five different areas: 19,060 acres for sprinkler irrigated farm land, 31,844 acres for irrigated flood farm land, 65.503 acres for dry farms, 20,857 acres for meadow grazing and 226,364 acres for dry grazing. Tom Hooten, director of the Montezuma County Extension Office, said ranching and agriculture by far is what drives the local economy. The top produced crop in Montezuma County is hay and alfalfa. Wheat is next with dryland beans coming in a distant third. Hooten said the total acreage of the entire county is 1.32 million and more than half of that (704,000 acres) is used for farming and ranching. He defined the 704,000 acres as the total land for all farming and ranching, not just agriculture for crops and plants. He said these figures show that the county is not getting away from its western roots of farming, ranching and agriculture. Even with agriculture remaining a staple of the county, Hooten said the number of agriculture land has decreased slightly in recent years. He said numerous agriculture land owners have sold their farms to developers when real estate prices were still lucrative. “We may have slowed down due to the recession and the real estate

market,” Hooten said in referring to people keeping and working their land rather than selling. According to figures from the 2010 census, the average size of a farm in Montezuma County was 988, acres and the acreage value of agricultural products sold per farm was $17,516. The average value of crops sold per acre for harvested cropland is $156.41 and the average farm expenses is $22,555. The average age of a farm operator is 56, and more than 93 percent of the farms in the county are operated either by an individual or a family. According to the census figures, there were 1,147 harvested acres for wheat with 14 harvested acres for vegetables and 263 acres in orchards. The census figures also showed 34 percent of the county is urban and 66 percent is rural with the median age being 38. The dry landscape needs water for the agriculture industry to survive. The parched land is irrigated by water mostly from McPhee Reservoir to the north of Cortez. The massive reservoir, second largest in Colorado, was constructed to provide a giant source of water for the agriculture lands of Montezuma and Dolores counties. The McPhee dam was completed in 1984 and it took two years for the Dolores River to fill the reservoir. The most common industries in the county are construction at 26 percent with both educational services and agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting providing 6 percent of the workforce. There are several communities in Montezuma County. Cortez, Dolores and Mancos, Pleasant View and the Ute Mountain Ute reservation town of Towaoc are the main areas. Nearby Dolores County is home to Dove Creek and Rico.

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Events Calendar Mancos Days

A list of some of Montezuma County’s popular events follows. For a complete list of current events in Montezuma County, visit the Cortez Journal’s website, www.cortezjournal.com.

MAY-JUNE

May 26-June 3 — The 12th Annual Mesa Verde Country Indian Arts & Culture Festival will be held in the Cortez area. The festival provides a chance for visitors to explore and experience the wide variety of Native American culture available in Southwest Colorado. A juried Indian Art Market, a rug auction, pueblo dances, concerts, and special archaeological tours and exhibits are some of the highlights of the festival that takes place in various locations throughout Mesa Verde Country. For more information, visit the festival website at www.mesaverdecountry.com/tourism/festivals/iacf/iacf. html, or contact Mesa Verde Country at 970-565-8227 or 800-5302998.

JUNE

June 1-4 — The 124th Annual Ute Mountain Bear Dance & Pow Wow will be held in Towaoc. The festivities will highlight the tradition and culture of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. For more information, call 970-565-8800 ext. 237 or visit www.utemountaincasino. com. June 2 — The Dolores River Festival will be held in Joe Rowell Park, Colorado Highway 145, Dolores. This event is family oriented and features live music, fun runs, kayak races, raft races, a river parade and much more. For more information, visit the festival’s website at www.doloresriverfestival.com or call 970-882-4780.

July 27-29 — The 54th Annual Mancos Days is held the fourth weekend in July at various locations in Mancos. The weekend includes a reunion of Mancos Valley residents, parade, games, a dance, vendors and more. For more information, contact the Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce at 970-533-7434, 970-533-7725, or visit www.mancosvalley.com.

AUGUST

Aug. 1-4 — The Montezuma County Fair will be held at the Montezuma County Fairgrounds, 30100 U.S. Highway 160, east of Cortez. For the full schedule of events, visit the website at www.montezumacountyfair.com or call the Colorado State University Extension Office at 970-565-3123. Aug. 3-5 — Cortez Rendezvous Hot Air Balloon Rally will be held in Parque de Vida, corner of Mildred and Empire. Balloons will depart from the park in the early morning hours. A balloon glow will be held at the Ute Mountain Casino, 11 miles south of Cortez in Towaoc. For more information, call 505-977-2679. Aug. 10-11 — The 2012 Escalante Days will be held the second weekend in August in Flanders Park, located just off Colorado Highway 145, in Dolores. Escalante Days features local artisans, food, and an annual softball tournament and mountain bike race. For more information, contact the Dolores Chamber of Commerce at 970-882-4018. Aug. 10-11 — Galloping Goose Days will be held at the Dolores Depot and Flanders Park, 420 Central Ave., Dolores. The event will celebrate the historic Galloping Goose and Rio Grande Southern Railroad. For more information, call 970-882-7082. Aug. 11 — The George Geer Memorial Car Show will be held in Centennial Park, corner of Montezuma Avenue and Park Street in Cortez. The show will feature hot rods to roadsters, a preregistration party, food, entertainment, handcrafted trophies and a beautiful hot rod run to Native American ruins. The show benefits the Blue Star Moms. For more information, call 970-565-0770.

June 7-9 — The 84th Annual Ute Mountain Round-Up PRCA Rodeo will be held at the Montezuma County Fairgrounds, 30100 Colorado Highway 160, east of Cortez. Along with professional rodeo events, the Round-Up features a parade down Main Street on June 8, carnival and midway, and other activities in Cortez. For more information, visit www.utemountainroundup.org or call 970-565-1000. Aug. 18 — Krazy Daze Block Party will offer music, and food downtown, along with Cortez Cash sales, Krazy retail sales and business JULY promotions throughout Cortez. For more information, call 970-564July 1 — Fourth of July celebration, including fireworks display, at 4095 or 970-565-1151. the Ute Mountain Casino, 11 miles south of Cortez in Towaoc. For more information, call 565-8800 ext. 237. July 4 — Fourth of July festivities will be held throughout the day in several towns and locations. Fireworks will take place in Cortez at Parque de Vida, in Mancos at Boyle Park, and in Dolores at Dolores Town Food & Fireworks. Rico and Dove Creek are also famous for their 4th of July parades and celebrations. For more information, contact the Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce at 970-565-3414, the Mancos Valley Chamber at 970-533-7434, or the Dolores Chamber at 970-882-4018. July 4 — The third Annual Cortez Burst Triathlon offers fun for the whole family. This event welcomes all ability levels and is held at the Cortez Municipal Pool, to benefit the Leopard Sharks Swim Team and Friends of the Rec Center Scholarship Fund. For more information, visit www.corteztri.weebly.com.

Cortez Burst Traithlon

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Events Calendar SEPTEMBER

Sept. 8 — Third Annual Bike & Hike on Wetherill Mesa. Hike or bike the Wetherill Mesa Tram Road at Mesa Verde National Park. Call 970-529-4465 for more information. Sept. 8 — The 14th annual Harvest Beer Festival, an event hosted by the Montezuma Land Conservancy, includes samplings from regional breweries, a silent auction and live music. For more information, call 970-565-1664 or visit www.montezumaland.org. Sept. 8-9 — American Red Cross Benefit Disc Golf Tournament welcomes all ability levels at the beautiful 126-acre Centennial Park for two days of disc golf to benefit the Southwest Colorado Chapter of the American Red Cross. For more information, go to www.swcoloradoredcross.org. Mesa Verde Country Indian Arts and Culture Festival.

Aug. 20 — U.S. Pro Cycling Race passes through towns of Mancos and Dolores. The first stage of the race begins in Durango and ends in Telluride. Aug. 24 — 10th annual Mesa Verde Country Winemakers Dinner features a gourmet 4-course dinner, accompanied by appropriate Colorado wines. The event takes place in Montezuma County. For more information, visit www.mesaverdecountry.com, or call 970-565-8227 or 800-530-2998.

Sept. 15 — Harvest Celebration in Dolores with the Galloping Goose, vendors and more. Contact the Dolores Chamber at 882-4018 for more. Sept. 22 — Third Annual Bike & Hike on Wetherill Mesa. Hike or bike the Wetherill Mesa Tram Road at Mesa Verde National Park. Call 970-529-4465 for more information. Sept. 28-30 — The Mancos ValleyMesa Verde Country Balloon and Art Festival will be held in various locations in Mancos. The festival will feature mass ascensions each morning, balloon glows, fiesta dinner, art shows, car shows, wine tastings and other fun activities. For more information, call 970-560-0203, or contact the Mancos Valley Chamber at 970-533-7434 or chamber@mancosvalley. com.

Aug. 25 — The 10th annual Mesa Verde Country Food, Wine and Art Festival will take place at City Park in Cortez. The event features the work Dolores Riv er Festival of many local artists, musicians and wineries. For more information, includSept. 25-30 — The Southwest Traders Rening ticket information, visit the website at www.medezvous and Navajo Rug Auction will be help saverdecountry.com/tourism/festivals/winefest/winefest.html at the Cortez Culture Center. The Rendezvous or call 565-8227 or 800-530-2998. is an opportunity to meet traders to the Navajo and experience their lives and stories. For more information, contact the Cortez AUGUST-SEPTEMBER Cultural Center at 970-565-1151. Aug. 30-Sept. 3 — The Fifth Annual Sugar Pine Ranch MotorcyOCTOBER cle Rally will be held Labor Day Weekend at Sugar Pine Ranch, located three miles north of Mancos on Colorado Highway 184. Oct. 5-6 — Bring It To Market: Heritage Harvest Festival celeThe five-day traditional motorcycle rally features on-site camp- brates our agricultural heritage with cider-making, a corn roast, ing, headliner concerts, bike games, vendors, and a beer tent. recipe swap, taffy pull, and lectures from local farmers. At the For more information, visit the website at www.sugarpineran- Cortez Cultural Center at 25 N. Market St. For more information, chrally.com, call 970-882-2456, or contact Joyce Humiston at call 970-565-1151. 970-799-0933. Oct. 27 — The Cortez Cultural Center Pumpkin Festival will be Aug. 30-Sept. 3 — Four Corners Biker Association Events will held at the Cultural Center, 25 N. Market St. The festival will inalso take place during the week of the motorcycle rally. For clude a variety of fall-themed games and activities, including more information, check out www.fourcornersbikerevents. a costume contest and treat parade, hay rides, and music. For more information, call 970-565-1151. com.

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Check out the Visitors Center

he Cortez Visitors Center is one of only 12 official Colorado Welcome Centers in the state of Colorado. Friendly volunteers provide personal attention and make this an excellent stop for information when visiting Southwest Colorado, which is considered the archaeological center of the United States. In addition, the welcome center houses a small collection of ancestral Puebloan artifacts.

■ WHY STOP: Mesa Verde Museum Association Bookstore, free coffee, WiFi and computer/Internet access, museum, local phone calls, picnic sites, rest area, RV parking ■ WHEN TO STOP: Open daily: Memorial Day to Labor Day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Labor Day to Memorial Day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on major holidays ■ INFORMATION AVAILABLE: Relocation guides, restaurant guides, weather and road condition updates and more than 650 different free publications about attractions in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Arizona ■ CONTACT: email: Phone: (970)565-4048

welcomecenter@cityofcortez.com;

“The Way to Mesa Verde National Park”

www.anethlodge.com 645 East Main • Cortez, Colorado 81321

970-565-3453 Toll Free 1-877-515-8454

12 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

- Established 1978 34 years of excellence in the Four Corners area

Open for Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week Lunch - 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Late Lunch (Limited Menu) - 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Dinner - 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Full Bar and Complete Wine List

- Outdoor Patio Dining Seafood Buffet Every Friday Night All you can Eat

“Best Seafood in these parts...” - Los Angeles Times 1986, 1990 Featuring: Shrimp, Oysters on the Half Shell, Fresh Grilled and Baked Fish, to name a few...

A Sampling of our Dinner Options... 25 Item Salad Bar Sandwiches Vegetarian Entrees Fresh Fish Daily Pasta Specials Fettuccine Alfredo Chicken Specials

BBQ Baby Back Pork Ribs Blackened Catfish Pork Tenderloin Jumbo Shrimp Crab & Lobster Prime Rib each Saturday Homemade Desserts & Homemade Ice Creams

970-533-7338

Jct. of Hwy 160 & Main, Mancos, Colorado Just 7 miles East of Mesa Verde Park Entrance

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 13

Steak Diane Steak Au Poivre STEAKS... New York Strip Rib eye Filet Top Sirloin

We Accept Visa and MasterCard

Around Cortez • Around Cortez • Around Cortez Cortez offers a variety of parks and features for visitors Swimming pool: The Cortez Municipal Aquatics Complex is located at 803 E. Montezuma Avenue (near the Cortez Welcome Center). The facility is open to the public seven days and features an Olympic-sized pool, a 125-foot double loop water slide, diving board, tube slides and a new splash pad. (970) 565.7877. RecReation centeR: The Cortez Recreation Center is located at 425 Roger Smith Avenue. Amenities include an exercise equipment, indoor gymnasium, racquetball courts, walking/running track, exercise equipment, climbing wall, indoor lap pool, lazy river, water slide, children’s water play area and locker rooms with showers. Contact: (970) 564-4080 paRk complex: A large group of Cortez parks are near Montezuma Avenue and Mildred Road and Main Street and Mildred. The parks are City Park (near the Visitors Center), Centennial Park (near the library) and Parque De Vida (near the recreation center). The parks have a variety of picnic areas, trails, playground equipment and more.

Journal/ Sam Green Children enjoy the bucket dump at the Cortez pool splash pad.

DiSc golf couRSe: An 18-hole disc golf course is located in Centennial Park near the library. Skate paRk anD Bmx: Parque De Vida also has a skate park and a BMX track. The skate park is at the southern edge of the park and the BMX track is at the northeast edge of the park.

Journal/ Sam Green Kurt Lampkin, known as the Friz Wiz, kneels down to putt under a tree in the Red Cross Disc Golf Tournament at Centennial Park in Cortez.

liBRaRy: The Cortez Public Library is located at 202 N. Park Street. The library has 28 computers with Internet access for visitors. Contact: (970) 565-8117

Dog paRk: The dog park is on the east side of Cortez off Highway 160, east of Denny Lake. The dog park offers residents a large fenced area where dogs can play and run without a leash on. The hours of the dog park are sun up to sun down. Denny Lake Park has a playground, restrooms, picnic shelter and mile-long nature path that allows visitors to walk around the lake and view an array of wild birds. The park is not part of the dog park. Journal/Sam Green Nacho enjoys a romp at the Cortez Dog Park while his owner, Lonnie Long watches.

For more information and a complete list of parks and trails go to www.cityofcortez.com/government/parks_recreation.

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Steaks

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Visit our • Sizzlin’ Fajitas Bakery for • Fresh Seafood Homemade • Surf & Turf Desserts • Vegetarian Options & Pastries Children’s Menu 10 & under

Every Thursday is Prime Rib Night Local Wine & Microbrews

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NEED CASH QUICK? If so, visit our convenient drive-up ATM located at 2258 East Main in Cortez. Visiting our area and need cash quick? Our convenient drive-up ATM is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. At First National Bank, Cortez we’re here when you need us...even on Saturdays!

Drive-Thru Hours Monday thru Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - Noon

Lobby Hours Your Bank....Face to Face

Monday thru Friday 8:30 am - 4 pm

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 17

Cortez Cultural Center

he center has a gift shop focused on goods rep-

For more information and upcoming events at the Cul-

resenting Southwestern cultures, made by local tural Center call (970) 565-1151 or go to www.cortezculartisans; a museum representing the past and turalcenter.org.

present of the Cortez area; an art gallery with new exhibits monthly featuring local artists; a classroom, kitchen, art studio, and darkroom that are available for use by members of the public; and a dance plaza/outdoor performance space located in the heart of downtown Cortez (25 N. Market Street). The center has lectures, music, plays, art exhibits, and much more year-round. The Cultural Center also manages the Hawkins Preserve, a 122-acre natural and cultural preserve open to the public year-round. The center is a nonprofit organization.

18 â&#x20AC;˘ Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ www.cortezjournal.com

Hawkins Preserve — a hidden treasure

he Hawkins Preserve is a 122-acre tract of land within the southern city limits of Cortez. The quaint environmental setting has a trail system with several short trails. There are scenic overlooks, native vegetation, fascinating slickrock and geology areas and a section of ancient ruins.

Directions: Take Main Street to South Broadway (Highway 491); turn left on W. Seventh Street then right onto S.

Oak Street, then right onto Verde Vu, follow the signs. The parking area, which closes at dusk, is through the gate.

The Ultimate ! e c n e g l u d n I 215 S. Sligo #5 • Cortez • (970) 565-2725 Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 10:00 pm Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 19

Pizza & Suds

Beautiful Open Patio Dining

On The River Build Your OwnPizza

PIZZA TOPPINGS Pepperoni, Sausage, Mushrooms, Canadian Bacon, Grilled Chicken, Black Olives, Pineapple, Sun-dried Tomato, Bell Peppers, Onion, Green Chiles

Specialty Pizzas: “The Redburn” - Creamy white sauce, grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, spinach. “ The Riverfront” - Creamy white sauce, green chilies, red onion, mozzarella cheese, choice of meat topping.

Subs

Salads

Classic Meatball - Meatballs with our delicious Italian sauce. Italian Sausage - Classic Italian sausage, peppers, onions, mozzarella cheese and our delicious Italian sauce. Philly Cheese Steak - Tender sirloin beef smothered with onions, mushrooms, peppers and mozzarella cheese. Spicy Italian Chicken Melt - Seasoned grilled chicken topped with Parmesan, mozzarella cheese and Italian sauce. Hot Ham and Cheese - Sliced ham piled high with mozzarella or swiss cheese.

Riverfront House Salad - Salad greens, onions, tomato, cucumber, cheese, croutons. Caesar Salad - Romaine, Parmesan cheese, bacon bits, onion, croutons, topped with creamy caesar dressing. Build your own toppings: Cucumber, tomato, onion, bacon bits, mushrooms, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, artichoke hearts, croutons, carrots. Special toppings: Ham, roast beef, grilled chicken. Salad Dressings: Ranch, Italian, Vinegar & Oil, Blue Cheese, French.

Bread Sticks & Chicken Wings Lightly topped w/ Cheese, Garlic Butter or Cinnamon.

Calzone

Choose from: Meatballs, Pepperoni or Italian Sausage. Additional toppings available.

Beverages: Fountain Drinks, Iced Tea, Lemonade, Beer & Wine.

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20 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Recreation

Fun at McPhee Reservoir

cPhee Reservoir is located north of Cortez and is the second largest manmade body of water in Colorado. It was constructed and is operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as part of the Dolores Project, and dams the Dolores River to furnish irrigation water for Montezuma and Dolores counties and the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation.

species, including trout, bass, crappie, blue gill, salmon and catfish. Colorado state boating and fishing regulations apply on McPhee Reservoir. The boat ramp at McPhee is a six-lane concrete structure with parking that can accommodate 150 cars and boat trailers. There are limited services at the ramp. There is no gas available, so come prepared. A fish cleaning station is available near the ramp, as well as two courtesy docks.

Archaeology

ABOUT McPHEE: More information from the National Recreation Service and Dolores Lands Office follows: McPhee Reservoir is named for McPhee, Colo., a company town founded by the New Mexico Lumber Co. that is now submerged under the reservoir. In 1927, the McPhee sawmill produced more than half of Colorado’s lumber. The town housed up to 1,500 employees. The sawmill closed in 1946. ACCESS: The lake can be accessed from near Dolores by Colorado Highways 145 and 184, and offers various boat-launching facilities, picnic areas, and campgrounds in the McPhee Recreation Area operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The lake fills the lower end of the Dolores Valley, with the dam completed in 1985 across Dolores Canyon. MULTI-USE: McPhee Reservoir offers a wide variety of experiences, from shoreline fishing, to water skiing, to flat water canoeing. There are 50 miles of shoreline and the lake is stocked with both warm and cold water

History/Culture

CAMPING: McPhee Recreation Site features several camping areas.

McPhee boat ramp

Dining Lodging Water skiing on McPhee

MO R E Mc PH EE I N FO R MAT ION For more information on McPhee Reservoir and Recreation Site, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office, 29211 Highway 184, Dolores, CO McPhee Reservoir

81323, 970-882-7296. Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 21

Fun on the water

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outhwest Colorado is home to white water rafting, boating and kayaking opportunities. The lower Dolores River includes a stretch of water through Slickrock Canyon that has Class III and IV rapids. Kayakers and rafters, of any experience, can get the thrills they’re seeking at legendary Snaggletooth Rapid (Class IV). One can also sit back and take in the beauty of Anasazi petroglyphs engraved in the sandstone cliffs that tower over each bank. n First stretch of rafting and kayaking the lower Dolores River is 47 miles at Bradfield Bridge near Cahone down to Slickrock. Second stretch is 50 miles through Slickrock Canyon. Third stretch is 45 miles through Hanging Flume Canyon. Final stretch is 38 miles through Lower Gateway Canyon to Deway Bridge at the Colorado River in Utah. n At McPhee Reservoir, the second biggest reservoir in Colorado, power boats of any size are allowed. People can water ski, wake board and fish, among many activities McPhee has to offer. n McPhee main boat ramp: Located off Colorado Highway 184. n House Creek boat ramp: Accessed through the town of Dolores on Forest Road 526. n Mancos State Park is home to the 10,000 acre-foot Jackson Gulch Reservoir. The one boat ramp allows, power boats, canoes and kayaks on a popular destination for much of the warm Southwest Colorado season. n Boats must be registered first at Mancos State Park or at the Dolores State Parks and Recreation office.

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RV Electric Sites RV Full Hookup Sites Lakeside Camping Showers Hunting & Fishing Supplies • Cabin Rentals • RV Dump Station • Convenience & Liquor Store Call 970.739.5533 or visit us on the web at www.groundhoglake.com Located 35 miles North of Dolores, Colorado

22 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

ontezuma County offers state parks and wildlife areas for residents and visitors to enjoy. Visitors to state parks should keep in mind that there is typically a fee, and access to any state wildlife area requires a habitat stamp, available at any fishing and hunting license retailer. State parks and wildlife areas in and near Montezuma County follow:

For more information about state parks, visit Colorado State Parks, http://parks.state.co.us. For more information about state wildlife areas, visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife, www.wildlife.state.co.us; click on Land/Water at the top of the home page then click on State Wildlife Areas.

n Mancos State Park — Take U.S. Highway 160 east from Cortez 16 miles to Mancos. Turn north on Colorado Highway 184 for 0.25 miles, take County Road 42 east approximately four miles to County Road N, and then take Road N west 0.5 miles to the park entrance; daily park pass is $6 per vehicle; park offers camping, fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The park can be reached at 970-533-7065 or 970-882-2213. For complete information about Mancos State Park, including additional contact information, visit the park’s website, http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/Mancos. n Dolores River State Wildlife Area — Five miles northeast of Dolores on Colorado Highway 145; 64 acres in Montezuma County; no facilities; hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing. n Fish Creek State Wildlife Area — 12 miles north of Dolores on Highway 145 to Forest Road 535, then 12 miles north to Fish Creek access road; 314 acres in Dolores County; no facilities; camping, fishing, hunting during deer and elk seasons; hiking and wildlife viewing. n Groundhog State Wildlife Area — 25 miles north of Dolores; take Forest Road 265 to Forest Road 533, then five miles northeast; 614 acres in Dolores County; campsites, restrooms, boat ramp, fishing and wildlife viewing. n Joe Moore State Wildlife Area — Four miles northwest of Mancos on

Highway 184, then north on County Road 40; 121 acres in Montezuma County; restrooms, campsites, boat ramp, hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing. n Lone Dome State Wildlife Area — 21 miles north of Cortez on Colorado Highway 491, one mile east on County Road 16, three miles north to access road, then 1.5 miles east to Bradfield Bridge; 1,662 acres in Montezuma County; campgrounds, hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing. n Narraguinnep State Wildlife Area — 11 miles northwest of Cortez; take U.S. Highway 491 to Highway 184, then two miles east; 566 acres in Montezuma County; restrooms, boat ramp, hunting, fishing, boating, water skiing, wildlife viewing. n Summit Reservoir State Wildlife Area — Nine miles northwest of Mancos on Highway 184; 526 acres in Montezuma County; restrooms, boat ramp, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing. n Totten State Wildlife Area — Three miles east of Cortez off Highway 160, one mile north on County Road 29; 244 acres in Montezuma County; restrooms and boat ramp, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing. n Lone Mesa State Park — 23 miles north of Dolores. Currently closed to the general public while development and management planning is in progress. Special-use permits are available for hunting and grazing, and opportunities exist for volunteers and special service projects. For more information, contact the Dolores Visitors Center at 882-2213.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 23

44 West Main Street Cortez, CO 81321 • 970-565-3303 www.pepperheadcortez.com

Welcome to Pepperhead! “Pepperhead” is the term for someone who’s obsessed with chile peppers, and the founders are true pepperheads. The chile that arrives on your plate is the highest quality possible, because we roast all of our own green chile ourselves and team up with the best producers for our red. Pepperhead is a locally-owned business, and we do our best to source ingredients locally. We’re also working to be environmentally friendly, using recycled and biodegradable products and eliminating waste, which is why our sodas are fountain only and our beers are draft only. All of our carry out cartons, cups, silverware and bags are made from renewable resources and are 100% biodegradable. Questions about our philosophy? Ask us!

Many of our menu items can be modified to fit your dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to ask your server any questions, and please tell us about your restrictions. GF — Gluten-free option available upon request V — Vegetarian option available upon request

24 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Golf Courses

Conquistador Golf Course offers 18 holes of pristine bluegrass fairway surrounded by wondrous views of the varied Colorado landscape. The enjoyable, yet challenging, city owned par-72, championship style course, can leave golfers satisfied, frustrated or plain confused. One thing is for certain, the scenery is outstanding with the La Plata Mountains to the east, the Colorado Mesa to the south and the iconic Sleeping Ute Mountain to the southwest. One happy customer is Steve Habel, writer for cybergolf.com, who traveled to 151 courses throughout the world. Habel compiled his top 5 and ranked Conquistador No. 3, as the “best municipal course.” Conquistador offers typical amenities with a putting green, chipping green, water hazards and sand traps. But it also offers PGA club member pro, Micah Rudosky. Whether one is looking for a few tips or hopes to elevate their game to the next level through lessons, the professional can help. People can find Rudosky managing the Conquistador Golf Course Pro Shop with his wife, Annette. If people want to get away and relax, then head south for nine relaxing holes. south forty Golf Course is a family-owned, self-service course with a driving range on 48 acres. The par-3 journey sends golfers by water hazards, sagebrush, swamps and sand, while being overlooked by Sleeping Ute Mountain.

Golf course facts CONqUIStAdOR GOLF COURSe ■ Rates: 18 holes (Monday-Thursday), $22; nine holes (Mon-Thu), $15; 18 holes (Friday-Sunday), $28; nine holes (Fri-Sun), $18; and, juniors (17U), $15 (all day). ■ Location: 2018 N. dolores Road on Colorado Highway 145. ■ Contact and information: 970-5659208, www.fourcornersgolf.com. SOUtH FORty GOLF COURSe ■ Rates: $10 a round (self-service). ■ Location: 25500 County Road H. From main street, take Maple Street south for four blocks. Go west to Oak Street to County Road H. turn east on Road H to the South Forty Golf Course. ■ Contact and information: 970-5653501, www.southfortygolf.com.

All 48 acres used to be a dairy farm. Bruce and Nancy Maness own South Forty, and Bruce, piece by piece, one step at a time, completed the driving range in 1996. The nine-hole course opened in 2007. The course has been featured on PBS. This summer, Larry Aylward, the editorial director of Superintendent Golf Magazine, is showing interest in writing an article about Bruce Maness and will visit the course. The Manesses still manage and maintain South Forty today. And, today, golfers can still get nine relaxing holes in.

Pinion Flats Camp Paintball Field and Store Equipment Sales, Gun Rentals & Repair Award Winning Foods of the Southwest! - Since 1981 Just 21/2 miles South of Cortez 7268 U.S. Hwy 160-491 Behind G-Whil-Liquors (970)565-0774 Joysfoods@gmail.com

• Rentals from $10 • Repairs • Paint • Bottles Filled (C02 & Air HPA) • Specials on Paintballs & Guns • First Time Paintballer special$19.95 • Gift Certificates Available • 3 Fields Available for Play • Field Fee is only $ 5.00

Tippmann, Spyder, Empire, JT, BT Events/DayPlay/Birthdays/Party’s 17921 Road 25 Call or Come By Dolores, Colorado To Schedule Your Event! 970-739-4662 www.pinionflats.com

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 25

G o n e f i s h i n g W

FISHInG InFO ■■ Colorado■fishing■license:■■Required■to■those■16-and-older■ for■fishing,■and■taking■fish,■amphibians■and■crustaceans■in■ Colorado. ■■ McPhee■Reservoir:■■Second■largest■reservoir■in■Colorado.■ Hosts■bass■tournaments,■has■two■boat■ramps. ■■ Fishing■supplies■and■licenses:■■Walmart,■Shooters■World■ and■Slavens■True■Value■Hardware. ■■ Fishing■outfitters:■■Circle■K■Guest■&■Dude■Ranch,■Dolores,■ 970-562-3826■or■800-477-6381,■or■www.ckranch.com.■

hen people say, an area “has it all,” that’s no joke about fishing in Southwest Colorado. Lakes, reservoirs, streams and rivers are within minutes. People are literally a short drive or hike away from trophy trout, bass and catfish. Whether it’s fly fishing, bait fishing or lure fishing, anglers can set a hook of any style and skill. McPhee Reservoir, located near Dolores, harbors brown and rainbow trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye and channel catfish among many others. Live baits, lures and artificial flies can catch all these fish species. A person can take to McPhee with a boat on Colorado’s second largest artificial body of water, and troll the depths or cast a line along the tall limestone cliffs. Southwest Bassmasters holds bass tourney’s every year. But ultimately, there is also plenty of shoreline for anglers to cast, too. The water that feeds McPhee is the Dolores River. This fishery provides great opportunity for hooking monster trout. Guided trips on the upper

and lower portions of the Dolores River are provided by local outfitters. Anglers can still go it alone through the quaint town of Dolores, which is part of the upper stretch. Below McPhee Dam is a renown stretch of the lower Dolores. Mancos State Park provides a family friendly fishing atmosphere at Jackson Gulch Reservoir. A daily fee of $7 is required. The nearby Summit Reservoir off of Colorado Highway 184 houses large trout. It’s the Mancos River that fills up Jackson Gulch, before making its way through the town of Mancos, 17 miles east of Cortez on U.S. 160. Spinner and flies are popular on the Mancos River. Totten Reservoir, located at County Road 29 four miles outside Cortez, is prime for large and smallmouth bass. Folks can float tube or boat the small reservoir. Narraguinnep Reservoir is much smaller than McPhee, but compares in the quality of bass and walleye fishing. It’s located off CO 184 near Lewis. A Colorado fishing license is required for those 16 and older.

26 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

A mountain-biking haven

here are more than 500 miles of mountain bike trails in the area. From service roads to singletrack, and from desert terrain to trails that weave through ponderosa pines, the area offers something for every mountain biker. PHIL’S WORLD: A mountainbiking gem is located just four miles east of Cortez off Highway 160, with more than 28 miles of rolling trails that wind through desert terrain lined with juniper and sagebrush. The expansive system offers trails for all abilities. Phil’s World has been featured in national bicycling magazines. It was also ranked second in popularity for rides on the Western Slope of Colorado on the website Mountain Bike Review. BOGGY DRAW: Located 15 miles north, the Boggy Draw trail system offers a stark contrast to Phil’s World. There are long, leisurely rides through mountain pines that can take riders out to scenic views of McPhee Reservoir and the Dolores River Valley. The Boggy Draw trail network is best ridden in the summer months and can be accessed by taking County Road 31 up the mountainside from Dolores and turning east on County Road W to the trailhead just past the cattle guard. CANYON OF THE ANCIENTS: This area offers a more rugged, arid mountain bike experience.

Located 15 miles west of Cortez on County Road G, the area is dotted with ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins, high mesas, and winding canyons cut deep into the sandstone. Due to the dry climate of the area, it is rideable nearly yearround. Trail maps are available at the Cortez bicycle shop Kokopelli Bike and Board at 130 W. Main Street.

Professional cycling race In late August, there will be a rare and unique opportunity to witness a bicycling spectacle like none other. For decades, Europeans have lined roadways to watch professional cyclists zip by, climb mountain passes and sprint for finish lines. Now, several years since cycling legend Lance Armstrong (seven-time winner of the Tour de France) retired, the popularity of the sport in the U.S. is experiencing another surge. Now in its second year, the USA Pro Cycling Challenge will weave its way through Colorado with some of the top cyclists in the world competing. The first stage of the race, on Monday, Aug. 20, goes from Durango to Telluride with riders racing through the towns of Mancos and Dolores. The massive group of cyclists, which average more than 30 mph at times, is a truly special sight to behold. For all the information on the race go to www.usaprocyclingchallenge.com.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 27

Anasazi Heritage Center

Archaeology

GREAT STARTING POINT: The center is the starting point for visitors wanting to learn more about and explore Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. ABOUT THE CENTER: The Anasazi Heritage Center is Southwest Colorado’s premier archaeological museum, operated by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management since 1988. The museum features permanent displays on the Ancestral Puebloan people and on the techniques that allow modern archaeologists to reveal the past. Many of the exhibits are hands-on and interactive. Along with permanent displays, the museum also hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year. The museum manages a collection of about 3 million items. There are two archaeological sites on the center’s grounds, the Escalante Pueblo and the Dominguez Pueblo, both easily accessible to visitors. The center also has a picnic area and half-mile nature trail; a museum shop is operated by the Canyonlands Natural History Association. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through October, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. November through February. Admission fees are $3 for adults March through October; youths 17 and under are free, as are all school groups. There is no admission fee November through February. GETTING THERE: The Anasazi Heritage Center is located at 27501 Colo. Highway 184, northwest of Dolores. To reach the center, turn north on Escalante Ruins above the Anasazi Heritage Center. Highway 184 at the intersection with Colorado Highway 145. WHAT IS IT?: The Anasazi Heritage Center is a museum dedicated to The center can be contacted at 970-882-5600. For complete information the Ancestral Puebloan — also called Anasazi — culture, as well as other about the Anasazi Heritage Center, including additional contact informaNative cultures represented in the Four Corners region. tion go to www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/ahc.html.

History/Culture Dining

Canyons of the Ancients NationalLodging Monument

WHAT IS IT?: Canyons of the Ancients National Monument contains the highest known density of archaeological sites in the United States — more than 6,000 recorded so far, representing Ancestral Puebloan and other Native American cultures. The outer boundaries of the area encompass approximately 183,000 acres, approximately 164,000 acres of which are in federal ownership and managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. HOW TO GET THERE: Canyons of the Ancients is accessible from various points along the Trail of the Ancients. Dove Creek, Cahone, Pleasant View, Yellow Jacket and Cortez are all access points in Colorado. Bluff, Blanding, Montezuma Creek and Aneth are access points in Utah. Part of the byway, County Road 10, from Pleasant View (off Highway 491), goes into the heart of the park. Reach County Road 10 by turning west on County Road CC at Pleasant View and traveling about five miles. FIRST STOP: Before visiting Canyons of the Ancients, it is recommended you stop at the Anasazi Heritage Center, 27501 Colorado Highway 184 (10 miles north of Cortez and three miles northwest of Dolores; turn north at the intersection of Colorado Highways 145 and 184 and travel for several miles) for orientation, a map and update on current conditions. For more information, call the center at 970-882-5600.

ABOUT CANYONS OF THE ANCIENTS: Information from the BLM: Canyons of the Ancients holds evidence of cultures and traditions spanning thousands of years. Canyons of the Ancients was designated as a national monument in June 2000. This has been a focal point for archaeological interest for more than 125 years. Archaeological and historic objects such as cliff dwellings, villages, great kivas, shrines, sacred springs, agricultural fields, check dams, reservoirs, rock art sites and sweat lodges are spread across the landscape. More than 5,000 of these archaeologically important sites have been recorded, and thousands more await documentation and study. There are no campgrounds in the Canyons of the Ancients. Primitive camping is allowed in most areas, but vehicles must not travel off-road. TRAVEL ADVISORY: Most roads in the monument are primitive, unCanyon of the Ancients ruin in Sand Canyon. paved, four-wheel-drive routes. Motorized travel is restricted to existing roads only. Mountain bikes are allowed only on trails designated for their use. FOLLOW THE RULES: Touching the rock art will transfer the oils from your hands to the rock and the art will fade away. Do not dig in the sites. It is illegal to remove artifacts from the sites.

28 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 29

Ute Mountain Tribal Park

WHAT IS IT?: The Ute Mountain Tribal Park, located on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation, offers visitors a unique experience of ancient Native culture and life. The park, operated by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, encompasses approximately 125,000 acres of ruins and archaeological treasures, exhibited in a simple, undeveloped way. The park contains a number of cliff dwellings and petroglyph sites, and it is one of only nine sites in the United States selected by National Geographic Traveler as one of “80 World Destinations for Travel in the 21st Century.” ABOUT THE PARK: Visitors to the Ute Mountain Tribal Park must be accompanied by a Native American Ute tour guide. Guides interpret Ute history, Ute pictographs, geological land formations, and Ancestral Puebloan petroglyphs, artifacts and dwellings. Half-day tours will visit Ancestral Puebloan petroglyphs, scenic lands, Ute pictograph panels, geological land formations and surface sites. All sites on the half-day tour are within a short walking distance of the gravel road. Full-day trips include a three-mile walk on unpaved trails and a climb on five ladders to visit four well-preserved canyon cliff dwellings in Lion Canyon. A round-trip drive on gravel and dirt roads from the Tribal Park Visitor’s Center is 80 miles for the full-day tour and 40 miles for the half-day tour. No water or food is available in the park, but water and soft drinks are available for purchase at the Tribal Park Visitor Center/

DOLORES FURNITURE & GIFTS

Selected by National Geographic Traveler as one of “80 World Destinations for Travel in the 21st Century.” Museum. BE PREPARED: Bring plenty of drinking water, lunch for the all-day trip, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and sturdy hiking shoes; and have a full tank of gasoline. No dogs or professional photography is allowed. Please inform the tour guide of possible health problems. Check-in time is 8:30 a.m., and departure is at 9 a.m. Tours begin at the visitor center/museum 20 miles south of Cortez at the intersection of U.S. Highways 160 and 491. Contact the park for special tours and additional pricing information. CONTACT INFO: The Ute Mountain Tribal Park headquarters can be reached at 970-749-1452. For complete information about Ute Mountain Tribal Park, including additional contact information, visit the park’s website, www.utemountainute.com/tribalpark.

Enjoy your stay in Southwest Colorado

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30 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

z e t r o C y.com r t n u co verde a s e .m www

You can find it all in the city,

with 300 acres of parks, trails and open space: 18-hole golf course ● sand volleyball courts ● picnic areas ● amphitheater and gazebos ● tennis courts ● baseball fields ● softball complex ● basketball courts ● skate park ● playgrounds ● fishing ● canoeing ● dog park ● hiking ● biking ● 18-hole disc golf course ● driving range ● putting green ● outdoor swimming pool ● 125-double loop water slide ● 46,000 square-foot recreation center ● indoor competition lap pool ● indoor family pool ● 145-foot long enclosed tube slide ● indoor climbing wall ● 8,036 square-foot gymnasium ● cardiovascular and weight-lifting equipment ● indoor track ● racquetball courts ● fitness classes ● outdoor rock climbing and bouldering ● archaeological sites ● birding ● nature watching ● BMX track

...City of Cortez

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 31

Personalize yo V

isitors to Mesa Verde National Park have endless options to create a trip tailored to personal interests and individual schedules. From a quick, half-day visit to a week-long exploration, Mesa Verde provides educational and adventurous activities for every visitor hoping to visit the storied ruins of the famous park. At least four hours are recommended for a quick visit to the park with a good part of that including traveling time on the winding road from the park’s entrance to the visitors center and back. Tours and sites at Mesa Verde can be separated into the standard, more visited locations and the more raw experience, which will take more time but will be worth the visit. A basic visit can include a n More than 500,000 visitors annually n Room counts: Cliff Palace, 150; Long Ho stop at the Far View Visitors Spruce Tree House, 130; Balcony House, n 5,000 known archeological sites including 600 cliff Center, where a number of inn 90 percent of the park’s dwellings contai dwellings teractive displays are available 10 rooms or less n The dwellings were home to the Ancestral Puebloans and provide educational inforn The park was created in 1906 by Presiden who lived in the area for more than 700 years, from mation on the history, exploraTheodore Roosevelt, to protect some of t roughly A.D. 550 to 1300 tion and excavation and conbest-preserved cliff dwellings in the wor n 5 cliff dwellings are open for general tours; 2 cliff struction of the park, a visit to or as he said, “preserve the works of man dwellings open to hiking tours the park’s museum and a tour of n Mesa Verde means green plateau n 11 maintained hiking trails (over 20 miles) Spruce Tree House or Cliff Paln Mesa Verde National Park elevations ran n Four mesa top archaeological sites open to visitors ace two of the park’s most popufrom about 6,000 to 8,572 feet lar cliff dwellings. Cliff Palace alone contained 150 rooms and 23 kivas with a population of approximately 100 people, according to the packing snacks and plenty of water for a er and how they managed their lives in vember, and the Morefield Ca park’s website. visit to the park. The summer climate can this climate and area. It is a great vacation open from early may to ear For a more comprehensive experience, be warm and arid and water is not always and great way to learn about history and starting at $20 per night, per ca Park entrance fees vary from visitors can participate in a number of readily available. prehistory.” ranger-led and self-guided tours and hikRegardless of tour options or length of n Mesa Verde National Park is some- for private vehicles and from ing trails, visit Long House on Wetherill stay, a visit to Mesa Verde National Park what isolated, but does provide some individuals on noncommerci Mesa or take a self-guided tour of Step offers a unique experience among the na- amenities for visitors. The park offers eat- motorcycles. The higher rates House. tional parks in the United States. eries, some of which are only open sea- summer season from May 24 Tours of the cliff dwellings involve “It is a great opportunity to see the sonally. The Spruce Tree Terrace Restau- but all passes are good for seve n For more information, ca hikes along maintained trails, some of works of early man in this area and ob- rant and Shop is open year-round, and is which are steep in places. Some tours serve how a sophisticated society operat- located near the park’s museum. For fine headquarters at 970-529-44 include ladder climbs. Visitors are en- ed,” said Park Superintendent Cliff Spen- dining, the Metate Room offers a great al- www.nps.gov/meve. For lodg ground or dining reservation couraged to learn the details of tours be- cer. “That is why this place is so special. ternative to a cafeteria-style meal. fore embarking and be aware of personal There is a great lesson to be learned here n Lodging at Mesa Verde consists of the MARK, the park’s concession limitations. Rangers highly recommend about how people in that era lived togeth- Far View Lodge, open from May until No- 449-2288.

Mesa Verde Fast Facts

32 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

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stories by kimberly benedict

Insider Information

hough the thought of a visit to Mesa Verde National Park may conjure up images of well-known Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House, park insiders caution visitors not to forget quiet corners of the park often overlooked by the typical vacation itinerary. “I think everyone here has their own favorite piece of the park,” said park spokeswoman Betty Lieurance, who has worked at the park for 13 years. “Everyone has had that moment in a little-visited place where they have been just overwhelmed by this place.” Sue Johnson-Erner, chief of concessions at the park and a 30-year park employee, encourages every visitor to the park to take time for a trip to Wetherill Mesa. A longer drive from the park entrance, the mesa is often overlooked due to the lack of “big” cliff dwellings but that perception has created a less crowded experience for those wanting to take in the beauty of the surroundings as well as the archaeology. “The mesa is just beautiful,” said Johnson-Erner, who was married on Wetherill Mesa. “It isn’t as heavily visited and you can have quiet visits you can’t have other places.” Some of the best memories from a day spent at the park won’t necessarily come in the more high-profile sites. Though trips into the famous cliff dwellings aren’t to be missed, Park Superintendent Cliff Spencer has personal experience with moments of wonder coming in little unexpected ways at Mesa Verde. “The best moment I’ve had in the park is taking a hike from the Morefield campground up to Point Lookout,” Spencer said. “It was on a Sunday morning and I started at about 7 a.m. I got up to the top of the Point Lookout and it was just me. Complete solitude. The skies were clear and the views were spectacular and it was a nice quiet way to bring in the morning. It was my favorite moment here. This place will surprise you with moments like that when you don’t expect it.” The lesson to be learned is clear. Visit the cliff dwellings and spend time in the museums, but don’t forget to seek out the quiet side of Mesa Verde. You may find your own magic moment.

Snapshot of Mesa Verde?

owering cliffs and stunning vistas provide the backdrop of Mesa Verde National Park, but it is the celebration of a rich history and cultural context that draws visitors to the unique features of the park year after year. Established as a national park in 1906 to “preserve the works of man,” Mesa Verde National Park offers a glimpse into a way of life long eclipsed by the modern age. The park is famous for the picturesque cliff dwellings nestled in alcoves throughout winding canyons. The dwellings were home to the Ancestral Puebloans who lived in the area for more than 700 years, from roughly A.D. 550 to 1300, according to the park’s website. In the past century, Mesa Verde has become a premier archeological site dedicated to the preservation of cultural and natural resources. The park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1978 by the United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organization. The hallmark site at Mesa Verde is Cliff Palace, which was first explored in 1888 by Richard Wetherill and Charlie Mason, two local ranchers searching for lost cattle in the canyons. The first major excavation of the park took place in 1891 by a crew led by Baron Gustaf E. A. Nordenskiold, considered to be the first scientist to visit the park. Though the park was created in the early 1900s, it wasn’t until the 1930s and ’40s that work began on creating a place to be enjoyed by the general public. Workers with the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the trails, roads and park buildings still in use at the park. Today, the park is host to over 500,000 visitors annually. Rangers lead tours through sites with such compelling names as Cliff Palace, Spruce Tree, Long House and Balcony House. Take the opportunity to step into the cool darkness of a kiva, used for ceremonies for hundred of years. Clamber up wooden ladders, rungs worn smooth by the many feet and hands that have come before. Visit the cliff dwellings and listen to the whispers of lives and stories long past that echo through the alcoves. A visit to Mesa Verde is far more than simply an opportunity to check another national park off a list of places to visit. The park offers a chance to travel back in time and touch the past in a place where the remnants of history still stand.

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 33

34 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Mesa Verde Tours Hours and Tour Schedule - Open May 25 to Sept. 3, 2012 Morefield Ranger Station Open (closes early/mid AuFACILITIES gust - tour tickets sold from 5 Chapin Mesa to 8:30 p.m.) Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum - 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. CLIFF DWELLINGS Spruce Tree Terrace - Open Chapin Mesa Spruce Tree House, self-guidFar View ed - 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Far View Visitor Center - 8 a.m. -Ranger-guided tours - 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 1 p.m. Far View Terrace - Open Balcony House (ticket reFar View Lodge - Open quired) - tours every half hour, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Morefield Cliff Palace Tours (ticket reMorefield Campground - quired) - tours every half hour,

9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Preservation work on Cliff Palace may be required this summer and tour schedule disruptions are possible

Square Tower House - 8 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday Wetherill Mesa Experience 10 a.m. Wednesday and Sunday Sept. 5 to Oct. 3

EVENING PROGRAMS Morefield Campground Evening Program - 9 p.m. Far View Lodge Evening Program - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday (June 12 to Sept. 8) Twilight Tours in Cliff Palace BACK COUNTRY HIKES 7:15 p.m. (May 25 to Aug. 18); Mug House - 10 a.m. Wednes- 7 p.m. (Aug. 19 to Sept. 3); 6:45 day, Friday, Sunday p.m. (Sept. 4-15) Wetherill Mesa Long House Tours (ticket required) - 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Step House, self-guided - 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

New Visitors Center A new Mesa Verde National Park Visitor’s Center will be completed later in 2012 with a soft opening scheduled for November, and a grand opening planned for May 2013. The $12 million 23,000 square-foot center will be at the base of the road to Mesa Verde near Highway 160. Visitors will be able to buy tour tickets, browse for gifts and books, as well as see exhibits and view workers as they prepare artifacts.

Courtesy Photo/Gene Peck – This artist’s rendering shows the new visitors center planned for the entrance at Mesa Verde National Park.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 35

Hovenweep National Monument WHAT IS IT?: Hovenweep National Monument is an archaeological preservation site located northwest of Cortez, along the border between Utah and Colorado. Distinct from most national monuments in its vast size and isolation, Hovenweep stretches across mesa tops and canyon rims, protecting the history of the Ancestral Pueblo Indians — also called the Anasazi — who inhabited the area more than 700 years ago. ABOUT HOVENWEEP: Hovenweep National Monument protects six prehistoric, Puebloan-era villages spread over a 20-mile expanse. Multi-storied towers perched on canyon rims and balanced on boulders lead visitors to marvel at the skill and motivation of their builders. The Square Tower Group is the primary contact facility, with a visitor center, campground and interpretive trail. The name “Hovenweep” is a Paiute/Ute word meaning “Deserted Valley” that was adopted by pioneer photographer William Henry Jackson in 1874. On March 2, 1923, President Warren G. Harding proclaimed Hovenweep a unit of the National Park System. Visitors to Hovenweep enjoy short hikes, natural quiet and some of the finest examples of Ancestral Puebloan architecture in the Southwest. The trail system provides access to each of the cultural site units. All units are open to the public, but most are in remote locations and can be difficult to reach. IF YOU GO : Hovenweep is open year-round with the visitor center open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. April through September, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. the rest of the year. The center is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Entrance fees are $3 for individuals and $6 for vehicles. All federal lands passes are issued and accepted at Hovenweep. HOW TO GET THERE: To reach Hovenweep National Monument from Cortez, follow U.S. Highway 491 north and turn west on County Road BB about one mile south of Pleasant View. Follow Road BB west about six miles and turn south on County Road 10. Follow Road 10 about 15 miles as it meanders southwest toward Hovenweep. Watch for signs to the monument. For more information, call the visitors information number, 970-562-4282, or visit www.nps.gov/hove.

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36 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Yucca House National Monument WHAT IS IT?: Yucca House National Monument, located south of Cortez, is a large, unexcavated Ancestral Puebloan surface site. Differing from most archaeological sites in the area due to its largely unexcavated state, Yucca House offers visitors a raw look at the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans — also called the Anasazi — who inhabited the area more than 700 years ago. ABOUT YUCCA HOUSE: Yucca House is one of the largest archaeological sites in Southwest Colorado, and acted as an important community center for the Ancestral Puebloan people from A.D. 1150-1300. The long-term preservation of Yucca House ensures that archaeologists will be able to continue studying Ancestral Puebloan society and what caused the people to migrate from the region in the late 1200s. The modern Puebloans are the descendants of the people who built Yucca House. The name “Yucca House” was selected for the monument because the Ute Indians called Sleeping Ute Mountain by a name meaning yucca — there is an abundance of the yucca plant growing on the mountainsides. The site is now a cluster of mounds. Due to the large size and extent of the mounds, there is every reason to believe that, when excavated, they will prove of great archaeological interest and educational significance. WHO SHOULD GO: The National Park Service does not recommend travel to this monument for the casual visitor. There are currently no facilities at the monument. The dirt road to Yucca House is impassable in wet weather. The monument is under the supervision of the superintendent at Mesa Verde National Park.

There are no fees or reservations associated with visiting Yucca House National Monument. The site is open year round, weather permitting.

HOW TO GET THERE: To visit Yucca House National Monument, drive approximately eight miles south of Cortez on U.S. Highway 491 and turn west on County Road B. Drive 0.8 miles, crossing a paved road and take the next dirt road on the right before the farmhouse on the left. Follow this road north and west for 1.4 miles, head toward the white ranch house with the red roof on the west horizon. Please be courteous toward the private landowners and close all gates behind you as you enter to prevent livestock from escaping. Once at the ranch house, Yucca House National Monument is on the left side of the driveway. Yucca House information is available by calling 970-5294465. For complete information about Yucca House, visit the monument’s website, www.nps.gov/yuho.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 37

History/Culture

Native American culture abounds By KimBerly Benedict Cortez Journal

ore than just a playground full of recreational opportunities, Montezuma County is a land awash with rich history and cultural importance. A visit to this unique location lends many opportunities to sink into a place where past and present culture meet in the shadow of Ute Mountain. Modern and ancient Native American history blend together here, with the Navajo and Ute Mountain Ute Indian reservations just south of Cortez and numerous archaeological sites and centers dedicated to the study of the Ancestral Puebloan people, the first to populate the area. For a glimpse of the ancient past, pay a visit to the Anasazi Heritage Center, a national repository home to 5,148 boxes of artifacts, not including pottery and larger significant pieces. Along with a research library and collection, the center features permanent exhibits highlighting local archaeology, history and Native American cultures. The center is family friendly with hands-on exhibits, programs designed for youths and adults alike and plenty of educational material to take home. Along with educational opportunities, Montezuma County also offers visitors a chance to see remnants of the past. Though Mesa Verde National Park is well known for its remarkable cliff dwellings and artifacts, visitors to the county will also relish a trip to the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Lowry Pueblo and Hovenweep National Park. The cultural contributions of Native Americans are on full display throughout the county during the summer, starting with the week-long Indian Arts and Culture Festival May 26 through June 4. Designed to incorporate many different components of archaeology, native American culture and the history of the West, the festival features a juried art market, Native American Dances, and Navajo rug seminar and auction. For more information, visit http://www.mesaverdecountry.com/tourism/festivals/iacf/iacf.html. Following the Indian Arts and Culture Festival, experience the traditions of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe at the Ute Mountain Bear Dance and Pow Wow on June 1-4. Held as a time of celebration for the tribe, the dance originated when a man dreamed about a dancing bear who imparted words of wisdom and tradition. The dance is an important part of the Ute history and culture and takes place each spring in Towaoc, located 11 miles south Cortez. For more information, call 970-565-3751, ext. 672. Throughout the summer, Native American dances and programs are featured at the Cortez Cultural Center, 25 N. Market St., Cortez. Storytellers and musicians add to the outdoor performances, a draw for residents and visitors alike. The center is also home to a museum and art gallery with a number of Native American pieces.

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38 â&#x20AC;˘ Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ www.cortezjournal.com

Hike into historic Sand Canyon

and Canyon is part of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and features Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites and the Sand Canyon Trail. The site, located west of Cortez, gives visitors a variety of recreational opportunities. ABOUT THE TRAIL: The Sand Canyon Trail is 6.5 miles (oneway) from Sand Canyon Pueblo down to the lower trailhead in McElmo Canyon. The trail is open to hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, but the upper section is steep and rugged — not recommended for bicycles. Part of the single-track dirt trail crosses slick rock marked with rock cairns. A vehicle shuttle is a good idea if you are going to hike the entire trail. Near the McElmo Canyon trailhead, you can visit Castle Rock Pueblo surrounding the base of the large butte just beyond the parking area. Hike one or two miles up canyon to view several

Sand Canyon

small cliff dwellings. This area is not wheelchair accessible. GETTING THERE: To reach the McElmo Canyon trailhead, head south of Cortez on U.S. Highway 491. Turn right (west) on County Road G at the signs for the air-

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port and/or Hovenweep National Monument. Go 12 miles on this paved road. Trailhead parking is an unimproved slickrock surface on the north (right) side of the road. No water, toilet, phone or other

services are available. FOR mORE INFORmATION: contact the Anasazi Heritage Center at 970-882-5600 or visit the website at www.blm.gov/co/st/ en/nm/canm/blm-canm-visitor_ information.html.

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MuseuMs give view of past

s an area that has been inhabited for thousands of years, Southwest Colorado has more than its fair share of history to share with visitors. Montezuma County and the surrounding areas house a number of museums and exhibits where visitors can learn about the past. From ancient cultures to mining history, Southwest Colorado offers something for everyone. Listed below are some of the area’s museums: Anasazi Heritage Center — 27501 Colorado Highway 184, Dolores, west of the intersection of Colorado Highways 145 and 184. A federal museum and research center, the museum features permanent displays on the Ancestral Puebloans. Many exhibits are hands-on and interactive. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through October, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. November through February. Admission is $3 for adults. Federal Recreation Lands Passes are accepted. For more information, call 970-882-5600 or visit www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/ahc.html. Antiquities Encounter — 343 E. Main, Cortez. The museum features a large private collection of Egyptian and Phoenician artifacts. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The exhibit is available other times by appointment only. For more information, call 970-739-1183. Cortez Cultural Center — 25 N. Market St., Cortez. The center’s museum features a variety of exhibits and collections focusing on Southwest Colorado cultural history. The Cultural Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, September through April; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday May 20 through August. For more information, call 970-565-1151 or visit www.cortezculturalcenter.org. Farmers Telephone Museum — 26077 U.S. Highway 491, Pleasant View. The museum collection includes artifacts, equipment and memorabilia from the original telephone company in the area, which was founded in 1920. The museum will be available for visitors by appointment from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is no admission fee. For more information, call, 970-562-4211. Galloping Goose Depot and Museum — 421 Railroad Ave., Dolores. The museum’s displays illustrate the history of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad, the unique mode of mountain travel known as the Galloping Goose, and the town of Dolores. The museum and gift shop are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday May 15 through Oct. 15, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday the remainder of the year. There is no admission fee. For more information, call 970-882-7082 or visit www.gallopinggoose5.com. Mesa Verde Museum Association — located at Mesa Verde National Park. The association maintains a display of Native American artifacts as well as examples of significant plant and animal life and a number of dioramas. The exhibit is open during regular park hours. For more information, call 970-529-4445 or visit http://mesaverde. org. Notah Dineh Trading Company and Museum — 345 W. Main St., Cortez. The trading company has a vast amount of Native American jewelry, and the museum features a large display of Native American art, including the largest known Two Grey Hills weaving. Among the items displayed are cradleboards, beaded headbands, pottery and fetishes. Notah Dineh is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 800-444-2024 or visit www.notahdineh.com. The Rico Museum — 113 S. Glasgow Ave., Rico. Located in a firehouse built before the turn of the 20th century, the museum showcases a collection of items from the history of one of Colorado’s oldest mining town. The museum is open periodically throughout the summer. There is no admission fee. For more information, call 970-9672162.

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40 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

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Where Four States Meet T

he Four Corners Monument is the only place in the United States where four states intersect at one point: Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado. The Navajo Nation includes three of the four state corners; the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation has the Colorado corner. The majority of the Four Corners region is part of these semi-autonomous indigenous nations. Colorado is the oldest of the four states, established Aug. 1, 1876. Utah followed on Jan. 4, 1896. New Mexico’s statehood was on Jan. 6, 1912, and Arizona followed on Feb. 14, 1912. The United States first acquired the area from Mexico after the Mexican American War in 1848. The area was first surveyed by the U.S. government in 1868 as part of an effort to form the state of Colorado. The Four Corners was established as the jurisdictional boundary when the boundaries of the Arizona Territory were established. The first marker was placed at the spot in 1912, a simple cement pad. Six governments have jurisdictional boundaries at the Four Corners: the states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah

as well as the tribal governments of the Navajo Nation and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. Other tribal nations within the Four Corners region include Hopi and other Ute tribes. OPEN YEAR-ROUND: The Four Corners Monument is administered by the Navajo Nation Department of Parks and Recreation. The visitors center is open year-round and features a demonstration center with Navajo artisans. Navajo vendors sell handmade jewelry, crafts and traditional Navajo foods nearby. The site is open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Admission for all ages is $3 per person. BE PREPARED: Picnic tables and self-contained restrooms are available. Services and accommodations are limited. It is recommend that visitors have plenty of water, food, snacks, hand wipes and extra toiletries. The area is very remote, with no running water, electricity or telephones. Teec Nos Pos, Ariz., is the nearest community at approximately six miles from the monument. For more information, contact the Four Corners Park manager at 928-871-6647 or visit www.navajonationparks.org.

The legend of the Sleeping Ute Mountain

leeping Ute Mountain comprises a small mountain range, the Ute Mountains, on the northern edge of the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation south of Cortez. Plainly visible from most parts of Montezuma County, the Sleeping Ute has come to be a landmark for the area. Towering over the reservation town of Towaoc, Sleeping Ute is part of Ute history and lore. According to www.utemountainute.com, the Sleeping Ute was a Great Warrior God. He came to help fight against the Evil Ones who were causing trouble. A tremendous battle between the Great Warrior God and the Evil Ones followed. As they stepped hard on the earth and braced themselves to fight, their feet pushed the land into mountains and valleys. This is how the land of the region came to be as it is today. The Great Warrior God was hurt, so he lay down to rest and fell into

a deep sleep. The profile of the Great Warrior God can be seen in the shape of the mountain. The blood from his wound turned into living water for all creatures to drink. When the fog or clouds settle over the Sleeping Warrior God, it is a sign that he is changing his blankets for the four seasons. When Utes see the light green blanket over their god, they know it is spring. The dark green blanket is summer, the yellow and red one is fall, and the white one is winter. Native Americans believe that when the clouds gather on the highest peak, the Great Warrior God is pleased with his people and is letting rain clouds slip from his pockets. They also believe that the Great Warrior God will rise again to help them in the fight against their enemies. The outline of the Sleeping Ute is most prominent when viewed from the east. The peak of Ute Mountain is the crossed arms with the Great Warrior God’s head to the north and feet to the south.

42 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Worship with Us! Visitors Always Welcome

Anglican Church of St. Philip the Evangelist 700 S. Market St., Cortez, CO 81321 Sunday Service: Christian Education, 9:45 AM, Worship 10:45 AM Pastor: Fr. Carl Brenner Phone: Church: 565-1555, Pastor: 505-564-3910 “Biblical, positive, historic, relevant, warm and welcoming” Baptist Chapel 1509 N. Dolores Hwy., Cortez, CO 81321 Sunday School 9:45 AM, Worship 11:00 AM, Wednesday Night 7:00 PM Pastor’s Name: Mark Baker / Phone: 970-882-1433 “Small church with a lot of spirit.” Dolores Southern Baptist Church 100 21st Street, Dolores, CO 81323 Sunday Bible Study 9:15 AM, Worship 10:30 AM, Wednesday 7 AM. Pastor’s Name: Don Phillips / Phone: 970-882-3104 “A place for everyone.” Cortez Vida En Victoria – Cortez Spanish Four Square Church 500 N. Washington, Cortez, CO 81321 Domingos 1:00 PM, Miercoles 7:00 PM Pastor’s Name: Liliana & Stuart Hanold Phone: 970-565-3709 “Servicios en Español e Iglesia para niños.” Evangel Assembly of God 209 West 5th St – PO Box 1355, Cortez, CO 81321 Sundays: 9:30 AM Sunday School, 10:30 AM Worship Service, 6:00 PM – Prayer Service Wednesdays: 7:00 PM Children, Youth and Adult – classes for everyone. Pastor: Jeff McDonell / Phone: 970-565-4198 “Childcare available.” First Baptist Church 100 N. Market, Cortez, CO 81321 Sunday School 9:15 AM, Morning Worship 10:45 AM Pastor: Rev. Vic Powell / Phone: 970-565-6555 “Family Friendly, A Bible Believing Church” First Baptist Church 150 N. Walnut, Mancos, CO 81328 Sunday 10:45 AM, Wednesday 5:00 PM Pastor’s Name: Rick Gregory / Phone: 970-533-7634 “Come just as you are.” First United Methodist Church 515 Park St., Cortez, CO 81321 Sunday 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM Pastor: Rev. Tom Towns / Phone: 970-565-3002 “The church that gets things done.”

4 Corners Area Church Guide

Foursquare Church – Cortez Family Worship Center 500 N. Washington, Cortez, CO 81321 Sunday’s 10:30 AM. Midweek Home Groups Pastor’s Name: Stuart and Liliana Hanold Phone: 565-3709 “Ministries for men, women, youth, kids and nursery.” Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church 105 N. 8th Street, Dolores, CO 81323 Sunday Worship at 9:15 AM Pastor’s Name: Rick Carpenter / Phone: 970-573-0335 “A friendly church where all are welcome!” Montelores Baptist Church 18735 CR 23.5, Lewis, CO 81327 Sunday – Sunday School 10:00 AM, Worship 11:00 AM Pastor: Paul Gleason / Phone: 970-882-2418 “For more information: www.monteloresbaptistchurch.org Presbyterian Church 350 S. Washington St., Cortez, CO 81321 Sundays 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Revs. Kim and Steve Nofel /Phone: 565-7024 “Come and worship the Lord with the people of God.” Rico Community Presbyterian Church East of the Courthouse, Rico, CO 81332 Sunday worship at 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Suzy Meyer 970-967-2463 – Church / 970-560-1407 – Pastor “Come worship God in the mountains with us.” Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church Dolores, CO 81323 Mass: Saturday 4:30 PM Pastor: Fr. Pat Valdez, C.R. / Phone: 970-565-7308 St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church 28 E. Montezuma, Cortez, CO 81321 Masses – Sunday 10:30 AM, 12:30 (Spanish), 5:00 PM Pastor: Fr. Pat Valdez, C.R. / Phone: 970-565-7308 St. Rita Catholic Church Mancos, CO 81328 Mass: Sunday 8:30 AM Pastor: Fr. Pat Valdez, C.R. / Phone: 970-565-7308 Summit Lake Community Church 36501 Highway 184, Mancos, CO 81328 Sunday worship 10:30 AM Pastor’s Name: Scott Christensen / Phone: 882-4144 “Expository preaching verse by verse thru the Bible.” Trinity Lutheran Church and Preschool 208 N. Dolores Rd., Cortez, CO 81321 Sunday 9:00 a.m Pastor: Rev Dr. Barr T. Chittick, Jr. / 970-560-2867 “A friendly, loving congregation & preschool proclaiming the Love of Christ.”

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 43

CORTEZ

Dining Restaurant Guide

Angel’s End Zone Sports Bar — 309 N. Broadway; 970-5654022; full-service bar, entertainment; open 11 a.m. to closing Tuesday through Friday, 1 p.m. to closing Saturday and Sunday; closed Monday. Antonio’s — 104 E. Main St.; 970-565-9066; authentic homemade Mexican food, steaks and a children’s menu with hamburgers; open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Arby’s — 504 S. Broadway; 970-565-1856; fast food restaurant serving roast beef sandwiches, market sandwiches, salads, subs and sides; open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Beny’s Diner — 640 S. Broadway; 970-565-5337; family restaurant, American and Mexican food; breakfast, lunch and dinner served all day; open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Blondie’s Pub & Grub — 45 E. Main St.; 970-565-4015; wide variety of food served, including burgers and sandwiches, entertainment; open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Burger Boy Drive-In — 400 E. Main St.; 970-565-7921; fast food restaurant serving American food, made fresh to order, including hamburgers, french fries; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. Burger King — 520 W. Main St.; 970-564-0725; fast food restaurant, offers hamburgers, fries, chicken, children’s menu; open seven days a week, 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Cold Stone Creamery/Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory — 215 S. Sligo No. 5; 970-565-2725; fresh made ice cream and chocolates; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; closed Sunday. Cortez Dairy Queen — 1127 E. Main St.; 970-565-9266; fast food restaurant serving a variety of ice cream treats, chicken dishes, burgers and sandwiches; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Denny’s Diner — 2059 E. Main St.; 970-564-0832; wide variety of food, including a full breakfast menu available all day; open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Domino’s Pizza — 2224 E. Main St.; 970-565-7373; delivery or take-out, pizza, chicken wings, breadsticks and more; open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Dry Dock Restaurant — 200 W. Main St.; 970-564-9404; family atmosphere offering a variety of dishes, including pasta, steak, seafood and salads; reservations are welcome; open seven days a week; bar opens at 3 p.m.; dining room open 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar opens at 3 p.m. El Grande Cafe — 28 E. Main St.; 970-565-9996; American and Mexican options, breakfast and lunch; open 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. El Burro Pancho Mexican Restaurant — 1430 E. Main St.; 970-565-4633; authentic Mexican food; open seven days a week

from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fiesta Mexicana Family Restaurant — 430 N. Colorado Highway 145; 970-565-4267; Mexican food, tacos, burritos, fajitas, family dining; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant — 332 W. Main St.; 970564-8423; traditional Chinese food; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. Hunan Chinese Restaurant — 2561 E. Main St.; 970-5650919; traditional Chinese food, no MSG; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday; all you can eat buffet 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Jack and Janelle’s Country Kitchen — 801 E. Main St.; 970-565-2572; homemade American food, buffet; 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. J. Fargo’s Family Dining and Micro Brewery — 1209 E. Main St.; 970-564-0242; variety of options, including wings, salad, Southwestern, Asian, Mexican, American; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday. KFC of Cortez — 2222 E. Main St.; 970-565-6228; fried chicken, sandwiches, meals, catering; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Koko’s Friendly Pub and Grill — 2121 E. Main St.; 970-5656000; sandwiches, entrees, appetizers, cocktails, entertainment; 4 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. La Casita — 17 N. Harrison St.; 970-565-0223; authentic Mexican food; open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Lunch is served from 11 to 3 p.m. and dinner is served from 3 p.m. to close. Let It Grow Coffee Roasters & Garden Cafe — 90 N. Mildred Road; 970-565-3099; cafe, sandwiches, smoothies, espresso; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Lotsa Pasta/That’za Pizza — 1020 S. Broadway; 970-5649131; variety of pasta and pizza dishes, salads, appetizers; 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; additional hours throughout the summer. Closed Sunday and Monday. Main Street Brewery and Restaurant — 21 E. Main St.; 970-564-9112; variety of menu items, including burgers, sandwiches, steaks and full bar; 11 a.m. until closing seven days a week. Mancos Pizza, Too — 1013 E. Main St.; 970-565-7222; custom pizzas, calzones, fresh sandwiches, salad bar, dine in, carry out, or take and bake; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. McDonald’s — 1322 E. Main St.; 970-565-6004; fast food, hamburgers, french fries, chicken, salads, breakfast; 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday; 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Mr. Happy’s Bakery and Cafe — 332 E. Main St.; 970-5659869; breads, pies, pastries, variety of burgers, sandwiches and sides; 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. Nero’s Restaurant — 303 W. Main St.; 970-565-7366; classic Italian fare, steaks, seafood, nightly specials, reservations accepted; 5 p.m. to closing seven days a week.

Ocean Pearl — 300 E. Main St.; 970-565-3888; extensive Chinese food menu, including traditional favorites and original house specialties. Large and varied selection of lunch specials. Dine in or take out; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Once Upon a Sandwich Eatery and Ice Cream Parlor — 7 W. Main St.; 970-565-8292; wide variety of food, including sandwiches, salads, burgers and ice cream; 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday; additional hours throughout the summer. Pepperhead Restaurant — 44 W. Main St.; 970-565-3303; authentic Mexican food; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; closed Sunday and Monday. Piccadilly Circus Pizza — 806 Broadway; 970-565-4301; pizza delivered to your location 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. seven days a week. Available for pick-up 24 hours a day. Pippo’s Cafe — 100 W. Main St.; 970-565-6039; diner food, breakfast, sandwiches, burgers; 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week. Pizza Hut — 1119 E. Main St.; 970-565-4037; pizza, salads, pasta, lunch buffet, local delivery; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. San Juan Coffee Espresso Bar — Located inside north entrance of City Market (Corner of Main and Harrison); 970-5659010. Full selection of hot and cold drinks; open seven days a week; Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shiloh Steakhouse — 5 S. Veach, 970-565-6560; steaks, seafood, salad, patio, reservations accepted; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday; noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. Silver Bean — 410 W. Main St.; 970-946-4404; coffee, smoothies, breakfast burritos, drive-through; 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. Sonic Drive-In — 436 S. Broadway; 970-565-3102; drive-in service, burgers, fries, ice cream; 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Spruce Tree Coffeehouse and Wine Bar, Internet Cafe & Used Books — 318 E. Main, 970-565-6789; breakfast and lunch menu items, sandwiches, bagels, breakfast burritos, wraps, coffee, wine, entertainment; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. Stonefish Sushi and More — 16 W. Main St.; 970-565-9244; fine dining; all varieties of sushi, including Nigiri, Sashimi, Specialty and Reggae rolls; wide variety of noodle bowls; full dinner entrees including chicken, beef and salmon. Lunch served 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; dinner served 4:30 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 4:30 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Closed Sunday. Subway — 1219 E. Main St.; 970-565-2412; variety of fresh, made-to-order sub sandwiches and salads; 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Subway at Walmart — 1835 E. Main St.; 970-564-8060; 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. Taco Bell — 1300 E. Main St.; 970-565-7494; fast food, Mexican; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.

Lodging

44 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant — 1740 E. Main St.; 970-5656868; traditional Mexican food, some American menu items; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The Farm — 18 E. Main St.; 970-565-3834; fresh, local and organic salads and soups, free delivery; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ute Coffee Shop — 17 S. Broadway; 970-565-2650; homemade food, breakfast served all day, family style; 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Wendy’s — 221 E. Main St.; 970-564-9241; fast food, hamburgers, fries, chicken, salads; 10 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week.

dolores Dolores River Brewery — 100 S. Fourth; 970-882-4677; woodfired pizzas, salads, calzones, variety of brews, entertainment; food 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Hollywood Bar & Cafe — 417 Central Ave.; 970-882-9998; sandwiches, hamburgers, steaks, seafood; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. Hunts’ Bar-B-Que — 206 Railroad Ave.; 970-882-2498; ribs, brisket, sausage, sandwiches, homemade potato salad and baked beans, take out only, catering available; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Ponderosa Restaurant — 108 S. Eighth and Colorado Highway 145; 970-882-7910; family restaurant, breakfast, lunch, dinner, steaks, salad bar, Mexican; 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. The Depot — 520 Railroad Ave. (Colorado Highway 145); 970882-7500; full breakfast menu, hamburgers, fries, shakes, malts, Mexican food; 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Riverfront Pizza & Subs — 1319 Railroad Ave. 970-882-4007; Dining in or carry out. Pizza, calzones, subs, salads. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. The Rio Grande Southern Hotel — 101 S. Fifth; 970-882-2125; American and German cuisine; Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 4 to 9 p.m.

mancos Absolute Bakery and Cafe — 110 S. Main St.; 970-5331200; breakfast and lunch, baked goods, espresso bar, also selling used books; open 7 a.m. daily, seven days a week. Arborena Wine Bar Cafe — 114 W. Grand Ave.; 970-5331381; light fare, cheese platters, appetizers, soups and salads; 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Chavolo’s Mexican Restaurant — 121 Railroad Ave. Opening spring 2012. Columbine Bar — 123 W. Grand Ave.; 970-533-7397; pizza, brew, entertainment; 1 p.m. to close Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to close Saturday and Sunday. Echo Basin Ranch Restaurant (open Memorial week-end through Labor Day Weekend) — 43747 County Road M; turnoff from Highway 160 is two miles east of Mancos, then three miles north on Echo Basin Road; 970-533-7000; dinner served 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters — 201 Grand Ave.; 970-5337624; fair-trade coffee roasted on site, espresso, small breakfast and lunch menu, burritos, sandwiches, bakery items; 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

Grand Avenue Cafe — 200 Grand Ave.; serving breakfast and lunch; Tuesday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hamburger Haven — 108 E. Grand Ave.; 970-533-7919; breakfast (Friday through Sunday only), lunch, dinner, hamburgers, fries; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The Mancos Pizza Company — 280 E. Frontage Road; 970-533-1390; pizza, salad bar; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. Millwood Junction Restaurant — 101 W. Railroad Ave. (U.S. Highway 160); 970-533-7338; seafood, salad bar, pasta, ribs, steaks; lunch 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; limited menu 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.; dinner 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. seven days a week.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 45

Lodging Cortez

Price Range

No. Rms./Units

Internet Access

Hot Tubs

Kitch. Units

Frig./Micro

Cont. Bkfst

Pets

American Garden Inn

$49-$89

Aneth Lodge-Budget Six

$40-$85

$79-$199

150

$99-$149

$130.00

$55-$79

$32-$65

144

$45-$100

Y/N

$69.99-$109.99

$69-$79.99

$85-$158

$117.99-$199.99

100

$95-$190

N/Y

$52-$89

$49.99-$99

$32-$65

$49-up

$19-$25.30

$125.00

$49-$79

2040 E. Main St. • 970-565-3738, 888-677-3738 americangardeninn.com 645 E. Main St. • 970-565-3453, 877-515-8454 anethlodge.com

Baymont Inn & Suites

2321 E. Main St. • 970-565-3400 baymontinn.com

Best Western Turquoise Inn & Suites 535 E. Main St. • 970-565-3778, 800-547-3376 mesaverdebestwestern.com

Brunk Guest House

3190 U.S. Highway 491/160 970-565-8107, 970-799-1567 brunkguesthouse.com

Cortez Mesa Verde Inn

640 S. Broadway • 970-565-3773, 888-565-1027 cortezmesaverdeinn.com

Cortez Mesa Verde KOA

27432 E. U.S. Hwy 160 • 970-565-9301, 800-562-3901 cortezkoa.com

Cortez Super 8

505 E. Main St. • 970-565-8888, 800-800-8000

Days Inn of Cortez

430 N State Highway 145 • 970-565-8577 daysinn.com

Econo Lodge

2020 E. Main St. • 970-565-3474, 800-424-6423 choicehotels.com

Grizzly Roadhouse

3450 U.S. Highway 160/491 970-565-7738, 800-330-7286

Holiday Inn Express

2121 E. Main St. • 970-565-6000, 800-626-5652 coloradoholiday.com

Kelly Place Bed & Breakfast

14537 County Rd. G • 970-565-3125, 800-745-4885 kellyplace.com

Knights Inn

440 S. Broadway • 970-565-7778, 800-477-0629 knightsinn.com/cortez

Rodeway Inn

1120 E. Main St. • 970-565-3761, 800-4-CHOICE rodewayinn.com/cortez

Sand Canyon Inn-National 9

301 W. Main St. • 970-565-8562, 800-524-9999 sandcanyon.com

Sleeping Ute Mountain Motel 531 S. Broadway • 970-565-9352 sleepingutemtnmotel.com

Sleeping Ute RV Park & Tents 11 miles S of Cortez on Hwy 160/492, North side of casino • 970-565-6544 utemountaincasino.com

The Jolly Rancher Cabin Rental 12745 County Road 25 • 970-564-9101 jollyrancher.com

Tomahawk Lodge

728 S. Broadway • 970-565-8521, 800-643-7705 angelfire.com/co2/tomahawk/

46 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Lodging Cortez

Price Range

No. Rms./Units

Internet Access

Hot Tubs

Kitch. Units

Frig./Micro

Cont. Bkfst

Pets

$50-$100

Y/N

$39-$219

Circle K Ranch

$55-$170

Dolores Mountain Inn

$64-$190

Dolores River RV and Cabins 18680 Colorado Highway 145 • 970-882-7761, 800-200-2399

$110.00

—

Fox Den River Cabin

$200-$300

Outpost Motel, Cabins & RV Park

$70-$190

Priest Gulch Campground, RV Park, Cabins and Lodge

$38-$140

100

$89-$195

$39-$79

$24-$49

$110-$275

$55-$95

$95-$125

$125-$175

$49.50-$108

$100-$150

$135-$225

$229-$279

$89-$159

150

Y/N

Ute Mountain Casino, Hotel & Resort

11 mi. S of Cortez on Hwy 160/491 • 970-565-8837, 800-565-8837 utemountaincasino.com

White Eagle Inn & Family Lodge

2110 S. Broadway • 970-565-3333, 800-659-4608 whiteeagleinn.com

Dolores

27758 Highway 145 • 970-562-3826, 800-477-6381 • ckranch.com 701 Railroad Ave • 970-882-7203, 800-842-8113 • dminn.com

24507 Colorado Highway 145 • 214-770-8805 • vrbo.com/62133 1800 Central Ave. • 970-882-7271 • doloreslodgings.com

27646 Colorado Highway 145 • 970-562-3810 • priestgulch.com

Sophia Peace Center

19581 County Road 31, • 970-882-4920, 877-246-0567 sophiapeacecenter.com

The Rio Grande Southern Hotel

101 S. Fifth St. • 970-882-2125, 866-882-3096

Mancos

A&A Mesa Verde RV Park

34979 U.S. Highway 160 • 970-565-3517, 800-972-6620 mesaverdecamping.com

Echo Basin Ranch

43747 Road M • 970-533-7000 • echobasin.com

Enchanted Mesa Motel

862 W. Grand Ave. • 970-533-7729, 866-533-6372 enchantedmesamotel.com

Flagstone Meadows Bed & Breakfast Lodge 38080 County Road K4 • 970-533-9838, 800-793-1137 flagstonemeadows.com

Lost Canyon Lake Lodge

15472 County Road 35.3 • 970-882-7871 lostcanyonlakelodge.com

Mesa Verde Motel

191 W. Railroad Ave. • 970-533-7741, 800-825-6372 mesaverdemotel.com

River Bend Bed & Breakfast

42505 U.S. Highway 160 • 970-533-7717, 866-403-7063 riverbendbandb.com

Sundance Bear Lodge

38890 Colorado Highway 184 • 970-533-1504, 866-529-2480 sundancebear.com

Willowtail Springs

10451 County Road 39 • 970-533-7592, 800-698-0603 willowtailsprings.com

Mesa Verde National Park Mesa Verde Far View Lodge

Navajo Hill at mile 15, inside Mesa Verde National Park 970-529-4422, 800-449-2288 • visitmesaverde.com

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 47

Fall brings Colorado color

By Reid WRight Cortez Journal

he San Juan Mountains offer some of the most spectacular views of fall colors in the

West. The white-barked aspen trees — indigenous to the high elevation Rocky Mountains — change colors in the fall from brilliant green to orange to yellow — shimmering like billions of golden coins against a backdrop of mountain peaks soaring 14,000 feet into blue sky above azure glacial lakes nestled in lush mountain valleys. The date of peak color change can vary by year and elevation, but usually occurs between September and October. The San Juan Skyway, 232-mile trip, offers one of the best views of the fall colors. From the San Juan Skyway, visitors can view postcard-worthy fall scenery from the comfort of their vehicles along with the surviving historical mines and railroads of early pioneers; the prehistoric dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people and millennia-old geologic formations. From Cortez, the skyway winds northwest through the lush Dolores River Valley, and follows the historic Rio Grande Railroad bed up the lumbering climb to Lizard Head Pass and the spectacular Trout Lake mountain basin, then traverses the cliffs of Ophir Loop to the booming resort town of Telluride — home of Bridal Veil Falls. North of Telluride, the Dallas Divide and Uncompahgre National Forest boast some of the largest aspen groves with neon colors blanketing the rolling hills on the way to Ridgway and Ouray. Over the spine-tingling Red Mountain Pass, Silverton is the final destination of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad with a restored steam locomotive and golden cars that match the aspen leaves. Built from rough-cut lumber and rusty iron, historic mining structures can be viewed from the road over Molas and Coal Bank passes. The byway then follows the cascading fall colors as it descends down beyond Electra Lake, through the red rock Animas Valley into the historic city of Durango. For those who want to see the color without the long drive, Mancos State Park is located about five miles north of Mancos, and is one of the top eight fall destinations listed by the state park system in 2011. Visitors to the park can camp, bike, hike, picnic, swim and boat in the waters of Jackson Gulch Reservoir nestled in the flowing foothills of the majestic La Plata Mountains. To get to the park, take U.S. Highway 160 east from Cortez 16 miles to Mancos. Turn north on Colorado Highway 184 for 0.25 miles, take County Road 42 east approximately four miles to County Road N, and then take Road N west 0.5 miles to the park entrance. The U.S. Forest Service maintains a fall foliage hotline at 800-354-4595 for up-to-date reports on fall colors. More information is available online at www.sjma.org.

We Welcome You To Dove Creek, CO On your way to Utah? We’ve got motels, gas groceries, laundry facilities and more.

Enjoy Your Stay in Beautiful Southwest Colorado!

48 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Come see what’s NEW on our menu!

Full Breakfast Lunch • Dinner Featuring Daily Creations! Hearty Country Style Breakfast Choices Including; Classic Favorites, Skillets & Fresh from the Griddle • homemade chicken fried Steak

• Biscuits & Gravy

• fresh homemade Soups, Salads & Sandwiches • BBQ SPeciaLtieS SunDay Brunch Buffet 8:00 aM - 2 PM PriMe riB every Saturday night

801 E. Main St • Cortez (970) 565-2572 Open 6:30 AM Daily WE ARE FAMILY FRIENDLY COMFORT FOOD AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Take-Out & Patio Dining Catering Available *Senior & Military Discounts*

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 49

Peek at Cortez’s Past T

his is the 125th anniversary of Cortez. Historians and city of Cortez officials have not set a definitive date for the town’s founding, but folks seem to agree it was around December 1886, when Cortez was platted, or January 1887, when the first business opened and first home was built. Some other key dates in Cortez’s history include June 21, 1887, when a U.S. post office was established; Sept. 27, 1902, when the town of Cortez government was founded; and October 1957, when Cortez became a city government with a home rule charter. Pioneer James W. Hanna is generally considered to be the town’s principal founder, the Father of Cortez. Hanna led the development of irrigation in the Montezuma Valley and was instrumental in Cortez’s founding. He died of dropsy in 1910, according to an obituary published July 23 of that year in The Denver Times. For a complete package of articles about Cortez’s history and 125th an- Photo courtesy of MontezuMa society and niversary, visit the Cortez Journal county historical howard J. hanna website at www.cortezjournal.com James W. Hanna is generally considered or go to the direct link at http://www. to be the father of Cortez. The Southwest cortezjournal.com/article/20120301/ Colorado pioneer helped bring irrigawater to the Montezuma Valley and NEWS01/703019944/History-of-Cortez. tion helped found Cortez.

Photo courtesy of MontezuMa county historical society

Cortez’s streets hum with activity on fair day around 1905. The building on the left is the Clifton Hotel, and the historic Stone Block Building, which still stands, is visible on the right. A small meat market stands in between. Across the street is the McEwen Livery.

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LocaL art gaLLeries

isitors to the area will find a variety of artists and galleries specializing in everything from fine sculpture to unique jewelry. Following is a list of some art galleries in Montezuma County:

Arborena Gallery — 114 E. Grand Ave., Mancos, 970-533-1381.



Art Juice Studio — 10 W. Main St., upstairs Room 102, Cortez, 970-565-0715 (available by appointment). Artisans of Mancos — 101 Grand Ave., Mancos, 970-533-7040. Barbara Grist Photography — 923 Balsam St., Cortez, 970-565-1732 (available by appointment). Clay Mesa Art Gallery and Studio — 29 E. Main St., Cortez, 970-565-1902. Cortez Cultural Center — 25 N. Market St., 970-565-1151. Goodnight Trail Gallery of Western Art — 106 Grand Ave., Mancos, 970-533-1177.

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Raven House Gallery — 120 W. Grand Ave., Mancos, 970-533-7149. Sky Art, Karen Kristen — 125 N. Sligo St., Cortez, 970-565-8965 (available by appointment). Sideshow Emporium & Gallery — 411 Central No.4, Dolores, 970-565-4170. West Fork Gallery & Custom Framing — 105 S.Fifth St., Dolores, 970-882-2211.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 51

Area Campgrounds Cortez/Mesa Verde KOA — 27432 E. Highway 160; heated pool, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoes, teepees, grocery store and gift shop. For more information, including fees, contact KOA at 970-565-3901 or visit www.koa.com/where/co/06107.

amping sites can range from developed areas with full-service hookups to more rustic, undeveloped sites. Campers will find the area offers a number of privately owned campgrounds as well as areas on public lands. A list of campgrounds and campsites in Montezuma County follows. Note that some city streets become county roads at city limits, and some county roads become U.S. Forest Service roads when they enter national forests. Road names and numbers can change when this happens. Some roads also have numbered designations and names based on geographical boundaries. For instance, Forest Road 528 is also known as House Creek Road. A&A Mesa Verde RV Park — 34979 U.S. Highway 160; located directly across Highway 160 from Mesa Verde National Park; large pull-throughs, 50-amp sites, camper cabins, tent sites, shaded sites with fire pits, heated pool, hot tub, 18-hole mini golf, recreation hall, two playgrounds, showers, laundry, groceries, free WiFi; rates based on two people: $38 per night for RVs, $36.50 for water and electric hook-ups, $24 per night for tents, $49 per night for camper cabins. Weekly and group rates available. For more information, call 970-565-3517. Bradfield Campground — located one-half mile downstream from Bradfield Bridge; from U.S. Highway 491 travel north, turn right on County Road 16 one mile south of Pleasant View, travel 3.5 miles and turn right on County Road S; 16 sites; water, composting toilets, picnic tables and grills are provided; $8 per night. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970882-7296.

Cozy Comfort RV Park and Mountain Retreat — 1501 Central Ave., Dolores; tent sites, pull-through sites available, full hook-ups, 50-amp, cable TV, lodge/recreation room with game table, fireplace, laundry, showers, and free WiFi. Luxury 40-foot motorcoach rental available. Open yearround. For more information, contact Cozy Comfort at 970-882-2483 or 800-877-7218. Dolores River RV Park — 18680 Highway 145, Dolores; tent sites $25, RV sites $35; 30- and 50-amp service, full-service cabins $110. WiFi and cable TV. Pets allowed. For more information, contact Dolores River RV Park at 970-882-7761. Ferris Campground — three miles upstream from Cabin Campground; six sites, five picnic sites, hand pump for water; $10 per night. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296. House Creek Campground — Turn off Colorado Highway 145 onto 11th Street (County Road 31) in Dolores, travel six miles north on County Road 31 (Forest Road 526) to House Creek Road (Forest Road 528); 60 units in three loops; 17 sites with electrical hook-up; dump station, pressurized water; $15 per night, $5 per day for electricity. For more information, contact San Juan Recreation at 970-882-7296. Campsites can be reserved through San Juan Recreation at 877-444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov. Mavreeso Campground — six miles up the West Dolores Road (Forest Road 535) from the intersection of Highway 145; 19 sites accommodate tents and RVs; all sites have tables and accommodate wheelchairs; $15 per night, $5 per day for electricity. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296. Campsites can be reserved through San Juan Recreation at 877-444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov.

Burro Bridge Campground — two miles past Dunton, 17 miles from West Dolores Campground on West Dolores Road; 14 sites, will accommodate a few RVs; corral accommodates pack animals; $14 per night. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296.

McPhee Campground — south shore of McPhee Reservoir, eight miles west of Dolores off Colorado Highway 184; 76 sites, paved access, parking, picnic sites, barrier-free flush toilets, sanitary dumping, 24 sites with electric hookup; 12 walk-in tent sites; two handicapped accessible sites; $15 per night, $5 per day for electricity. For more information, contact the Cabin Canyon Campground — past Bradfield Bridge, turn right on Forest Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296. Campsites can be reserved Road 504 and travel four miles upstream; 11 sites, hand pump for water, dry through San Juan Recreation at 877-444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov. dump station; $10 per night. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296. Target Tree Campground — off U.S. Highway 160 seven miles north of Mancos; 25 sites, some available for RVs; $15 per night. For more inforCayton Campground — six miles northeast of Rico on Highway 145, entrance mation, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296. is one-half mile east of the highway on Barlow Creek Road (Forest Road 578); 27 campsites and three picnic sites; 19 sites with access to 50-amp electric Transfer Campground — from Highway 184, turn east on County Road outlets; pressurized water and dry dump station; $15 per night, $5 per day for 42, travel seven miles; 12 sites; all sites and restrooms are barrier free; electricity. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at group picnic area; stock corral; $14 per night. For more information, con970-882-7296. Campsites can be reserved through San Juan Recreation at 877- tact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882-7296. 444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov. West Dolores Campground — seven miles up the West Dolores Road Circle K Guest and Dude Ranch — 27758 Highway 145, Dolores; $30/RV with (Forest Road 535) from the intersection with Highway 145; 18 sites acfull hook-up, $27/RV with electric hook-up, $21 for tent campsites; all rates commodate tents and RVs; $15 per night, $5 per day for electricity. For based on two people. Horseback riding and pack trips, fly fishing, and many more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970-882other activities. For more information, contact Circle K Ranch at 970-562-3826 7296. Campsites can be reserved through San Juan Recreation at 877or visit www.ckranch.com. 444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov.

52 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

A few things to know from AreA insiders LocAL brew — There are three places to partake in a locally brewed pint in Montezuma County. Main Street Brewery and J. Fargos in Cortez and Dolores River Brewery in Dolores. grAb A cup in A trAiLer — How many chances do you have to satisfy your caffeine craving in a 1969 silver Airstream trailer? The Silver Bean is located at 401 W. Main in Cortez. It also has a drive through. hAwkins preserve — this is a unique place with a system of trails in south Cortez. The overlooks with cliff and vista scenery make for a great place to see a sunset or just go for a leisurely hike.. wAtch A rAdio show — KSJD in downtown Cortez has a studio with a large window near the corner of Main and Market. You can watch as the DJ on the air. pLAce A bet — as they like to say “11 lucky miles from Cortez” the Ute Mountain Casino is just down Highway 491 in Towaoc. Absorb cuLture — In the summer months, the Cortez Culture Center presents a variety of Native American dances and performances in a splendid outdoor setting.

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 53

Travel information

ravelers to the Four Corners will find a variety of options and information. BY AIR: Cortez Municipal Airport is served by Great Lakes Airlines and offers air service to Denver daily. For more information, contact the airport manager at 970-565-7458 or Great Lakes at 800-554-5111 or 970-565-9510. The airport is located at 22874 County Road F. Take U.S. Highway 160 south of Cortez and turn west on County Road G to reach the airport. CARS & CABS: Cortez offers travelers three car rental options, Hertz, Budget and Enterprise. Both Hertz and Budget operate at Cortez Municipal Airport. Hertz can be reached at 970-565-2001, and Budget can be reached at 970-5649012. Enterprise is located at 201 N. Pinon Drive, Suite A, and can be reached at 970-565-6824. Cortez Cab provides service and package delivery 24/7 to destinations in Montezuma County, Dolores County and beyond to La Plata and San Miguel counties. Cortez Cab can be reached at 565-6911. WHERE TO GO: Resources are plentiful at the Colorado Visitors Center, 928 E. Main St., Cortez. The center offers calendars of events, brochures, discount packages and coupons, multilingual guides, information on road conditions and regional maps. SCENIC BYWAYS: The Four Corners has two scenic byways that have been identified as part of America’s Byways, part of the National Scenic Byway Program. Visitors to the area find the San Juan Skyway

and Trail of the Ancients to be worth the time and travel. For more information, visit www. byways.org/explore/byways/2101 and www.byways.org/explore/byways/2597. For detailed travel and road condition information, contact the Colorado Department of Transportation at 303-639-1111 or visit www.cotrip.org. MORE INFO: For more information on these or other travel options, contact the Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce at 970-565-3414 or visit www.cortezchamber.com.

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54 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

Resources make relocation easy

or those who visit Montezuma Coun4211; and Baja Broadband, 877-321-6851. ty and decide they want to stay, there Many options are available for cable televiare many resources to make relocatsion and Internet service. Contact the indiing easy. vidual municipality in which you plan to live. The Cortez Area Association of RealThree school districts exist in Montezuma tors offers prospective buyers a number County. Each district is unique in its demoCity of Cortez - 970-565-3402 of knowledgeable realtors to choose from. graphics and course offerings. Members serve all the towns in the reMontezuma-Cortez School District Re-1 Town of Dolores - 970-882-7454 gion, which extends from Egnar, roughly is the largest district in the county and com47 miles northwest of Cortez, to Rico, 48 prises five elementary schools, including a Town of Mancos - 970-533-7725 miles northeast of Cortez, to Dolores, charter school, one middle school, one high Mancos and Cortez. For more informaschool and one alternative high school. For tion, visit www.cortezarearealtors.com or more information, contact the district at 970call 970-565-0112. 565-7282 or visit www.cortez.k12.co.us. Utilities in Montezuma County vary deDolores School District Re-4A features a pending on the area in which one resides. For water, trash and preschool, elementary school and joint middle/high school. For sewer information, contact the individual municipality in ques- more information, contact the district at 970-882-7255 or visit tion: city of Cortez, 210 E. Main St., 970-565-3402; town of Dolo- www.dolores.k12.co.us. res, 420 Central Ave., 970-882-7454; or town of Mancos, 117 N. Mancos School District Re-6 is made up of elementary, middle Main Ave., 970-533-7725. and high schools, and enrolls the fewest students of the three Electric service is provided to area residents by Empire Elec- districts. tric Association, 801 N. Broadway, Cortez, 970-565-4444. For more information, contact the district at 970-533-7748 or Natural gas in the county is provided by Atmos Energy, 800- visit www.mancos.schoolfusion.us. 442-1313. Propane is provided by Country Gas, 970-564-1199; For more relocation information, contact the Cortez Area Ferrellgas, 970-565-8509; Fraley & Co., 970-565-8538; and Na- Chamber of Commerce at 970-565-3414 or www.cortezchamvajo Butane, 970-565-3514. ber.com, the Dolores Chamber of Commerce at 970-882-4018 Phone service in the county is provided by Qwest, 800-244- or www.doloreschamber.com, or the Mancos Valley Chamber of 1111; CenturyTel, 800-201-4099; Farmer’s Telephone, 970-562- Commerce at 970-533-7434 or www.mancosvalley.com.

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 55

Website Information Newspaper cortezjournal.com Cortez History articles www.tinyurl.com/7ppgcnq area CHambers www.cortezchamber.com www.doloreschamber.com www.mancosvalley.com muNiCipal aNd CouNty www.cityofcortez.com www.townofdolores.com www.mancoscolorado.com www.durangogov.org

la plata County co.laplata.co.us tourist iNfo National park service www.nps.gov mesa Verde www.visitmesaverde.com www.mesaverdecountry.com www.cortezculturalcenter.org Cortez Cultureal Center www.cortezculturalcenter.org

dolores County www.dolorescounty.org

dolores Galloping Goose Historical society www.gallopinggoose5.com

montezuma County www.co.montezuma.co.us

anasazi Hertiage Center www.mesaverdecountry.com

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Experience our trading post and museum in Cortez. open 6 days a week, Mon - Sat 9am - 5:30pm. Featuring the finest in Native American arts and crafts. 345 W. Main Cortez. CO 81321 1.800.444.2024 1.970.565.9607

56 • Southwest Colorado4/24/12 Visitors3:15Guide • www.cortezjournal.com PM

Quick Trips DurAnGo Three things to do in Durango (45 miles from Cortez)

Mountain fun Telluride is an old mining town that is known for world-class skiing and celebrity sightings. At an elevation of 8,750 feet, getting out and onto the mountain trails provides plenty of fun.

All aboard! Take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The 50-mile trip to the mining town of SIlverton is one of the big- information gest tourist highlights of Durango. www.telluride.com www.visittelluride.com Be a foodie Downtown Durango has more restaurants per capita than San MoAB, uTAH Francisco. There are also four microbreweries in town. Two things to do (115 miles from Cortez)

Henry strater Theater Arches national Park This world-renowned theatre is one of the oldest and most pres- The park contains the world’s largest concentration of natural tigious continually running theatres in Colorado. sandstone arches. Although over 2,000 arches are located within the park’s 76,518 acres, the park also contains an astounding information variety of other geological formations. Colossal sandstone fins, www.durango.org massive balanced rocks, soaring pinnacles and spires dwarf visiwww.durangobusiness.org tors as they explore the park’s viewpoints and hiking trails. TeLLuriDe Two things to do (71 miles from Cortez)

Hit the trail Whether it’s on a mountain bike or in a 4-wheel drive vehicle, Moab is one of the top destinations for challenging, picturesque and memorable riding and driving trails.

festival fun Telluride has festivals throughout the summer ranging from Yoga, to jazz to bluegrass, to film. information www.discovermoab.com

The Dolores Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Welcomes You to Beautiful Dolores, Colorado Visit us the First Saturday in June for Dolores Riverfest & the Second weekend in August for Dolores Escalante Days! Visit www.doloreschamber.com for more information and Special Events

E-mail us at: doloreschamber@centurytel.net Write to us at: P.O. Box 602, Dolores CO 81323 Call us at: 970-882-4018 Visit us at: 201 Railroad Ave. HWY 145 in Dolores Open 7 days 9 am - 4 pm May - October Open 4 days a week November - April Gift Shop Available Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 57

58 • Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com

1-800-258-8007

11 Lucky miLes south of cortez, coLorado on highways 491/160

Breakfast Menu SUNRISE SPECIAL Monday thru Friday only!

Two large farm fresh eggs any style, choice of meat and served with hash browns and toast. $3.95

BISCUITS & GRAVY

Two buttermilk biscuits and country gravy. $3.95

FRENCH TOAST

Two slices of a classic with dash cinnamon and vanilla. $4.95

BUTTERMILK CAKES Served with maple syrup and whipped butter. Full Stack $3.95 Short Stack $2.95

TWO EGGS & MEAT

Two large farm fresh eggs any style and your choice of meat, served with hash browns and toast. $6.95

STEAK & EGGS

Two large farm fresh eggs any style and a juicy sirloin steak served with hash browns and toast. $8.95

BREAKFAST

SIDES

Breakfast Buffet avaiLaBLe saturday & sunday 7am - 11pm

KUCHU'S AM SPECIAL Two pieces of French toast or two buttermilk cakes, two eggs any style and choice of ham, bacon, sausage patty or sausage links. Served with hash browns. $7.95

CHICKEN FRIED STEAK & EGGS

Two farm fresh eggs any style and our delicious chicken fried steak, topped with country gravy and served with hash browns and toast. $7.95

THREE EGG OMELET

Made with three farm fresh eggs. Choice of Ham & Cheese, Denver, Three Meat, Veggie or Spanish omelet. Served with hash browns and toast. $6.95

BREAKFAST BURRITO

Two scrambled eggs, hash browns, onions, bell peppers, cheese, sausage and ham, rolled in a flour tortilla with red or green chile. $7.95

EGG & MEAT SANDWICH Fried egg with choice of bread and meat. $5.95

Cream of Wheat & Toast $2.95 Oatmeal & Toast $2.95 Cold Cereal $2.95 Hash Browns $1.95 Side of Cottage Cheese $1.95 One Egg $1.25

Bacon $2.95 Ham $2.95 Sausage $2.95 Toast/English Muffin $1.25 (2) Biscuits $1.95 Small Fruit Juice $1.95

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 59

appetizers Chicken Quesadilla

Grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese and diced green chile on a flour tortilla. Served with salsa and sour cream. $7.95

Basket of Fries

Choice of seasoned or regular fries. $3.95

Chili Fries

Choice of seasoned or regular fries, topped with red or green chile and smothered in cheese. $5.95

Nachos Supreme

Taco meat, jalapenos and cheese sauce over chips topped with lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream and guacamole. $7.95

Hot Wings

Jumbo wings fried to perfection and tossed in our own hot sauce. Served with fresh vegetables and ranch dressing. $7.95

Chicken Strip Basket

Four chicken strips and fries served with ranch dressing. $6.95

Irish Nachos

Deep fried potatoes topped with taco meat, cheese sauce, lettuce, diced tomatoes and sour cream. $7.95

HOME-STYLE SALADS Served from 11:00 am to close.

Grilled Chicken Caesar

Romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, topped with grilled chicken breast, croutons and fresh grated parmesan cheese. $7.95

Taco Salad

Fried Taco shell filled wtih seasoned taco meat,shredded cheese, jalapenos, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and topped with sour cream. $7.95

Chef Salad

Crisp iceberg lettuce topped with ham, turkey, shredded cheese, hard boiled egg wedges, tomato, and cucumber slices, served with your choice of salad dressings. $9.95

All You Can Eat Soup & Salad Bar $6.95 Bowl of Soup/Dinner Salad $3.95

HOMESTYLE BURGERS Best burgers in the four corners area!

Served with lettuce, onion, tomato and pickles with choice of potato.

Chili Burger

Charbroiled hamburger with your choice of red or green chile. $8.95

Kuchu's Burger

Charbroiled to perfection. $7.95 Add green chilies, cheese, bacon or mushrooms for $.75

Native Hamburger

Hamburger charbroiled to perfection. Served on tortilla or fry bread. $7.95

Patty Melt

Charbroiled hamburger with sauteed onions and Swiss cheese on grilled rye. $8.95

A 15% Gratuity will be added to parties of 8 or more.

60 â&#x20AC;˘ Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ www.cortezjournal.com

Lunch & Dinner Menu

LUNCH BUFFET DaiLy 11am - 3pm • DiNNER BUFFET DaiLy 5pm - CLosE sEaFooD BUFFET FRiDays oNLy! 5pm - CLosE

Baby Back Ribs Half rack of tender baby back ribs, charbroiled and basted in our own savory bbq sauce served vegetable of the day and choice of potato. Served with dinner roll. $12.95

Roast Beef Dinner

Tender slow roasted choice beef with choice of potato, served with vegetables and dinner roll. $9.95

Hot Beef Sandwich

Tender roast beef served open faced on Texas toast with mashed potatoes and rich beef gravy. $7.95

Hot Hamburger

Hamburger charbroiled to perfection served open faced on grilled Texas toast with mashed potatoes and rich beef gravy. $7.95

Braised Beef Short Ribs

Slow braised chuck short rib topped veal demi glace, served with mashed potatoes, dinner roll and vegetable. $10.95

Meatloaf Dinner

Generous slices of grilled meatloaf topped red chile glaze, served with mashed potatoes, vegetable and dinner roll. $8.95

Home-Style Mac & Cheese

Delicious blend of 4 cheeses, smoked bacon and pasta shells and dinner roll. $5.95

Hamburger Steak

Charbroiled hamburger steak topped sautéed onions, mushrooms and topped with rich beef gravy served with vegetable and choice of potato. Served with dinner roll. $10.95

Fried Chicken

Three pieces of honey battered fried chicken served with vegetable of the day and mashed potatoes with gravy. Served with dinner roll. $10.95

Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak fried to perfection with mashed potatoes, covered with country gravy. Served with dinner roll. $8.50

Pork Chops

Green Chile Chicken Pot Pie

Your individual pot pie, large chunks of chicken with a mix of garlic, celery, green chilies, and carrots, topped with puff pastry and baked to golden brown. $8.95

Pork Osso Buco

Our version of osso buco: slow braised pork shank topped with a rich demi glace sitting in middle of Dove Creek pintos. Served with tortillas. $10.95

Grilled boneless pork chop served with the vegetable of the day and choice of potato. Served with dinner roll. $7.95

Liver & Onions

Liver smothered in grilled onions served with mashed potatoes, vegetables of the day and served with dinner roll. $8.95

Chicken Fettuccini

Grilled chicken breast in a creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce with fettuccini noodles. Served with garlic toast. $9.95

Fajitas

Our sizzling fajitas come with your choice of chicken or beef, bell peppers strips and onions Served with tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, rice and beans. $9.95

Native Taco

Homemade fry bread topped with ground beef, beans, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and sour cream. Choice of red or green chile. $9.95

Enchiladas

Three delicious enchiladas, your choice of cheese or beef. Served with red or green chile, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, rice and beans. $8.95

Smothered Burrito

South of the border taste with a flour tortilla filled with ground beef and beans. Topped with lettuce, tomato, beans, and rice. Covered with red or green chile sauce and smothered in cheese. $8.95

Combo Plate

Beef or cheese enchiladas, beef or bean burrito, hard or soft shell taco, rice and beans, served with red or green chile. $8.95

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Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 61

steak & seafood

Served with house salad, dinner roll and choice of potato.

T-Bone

Steak Sandwich

Choice T-Bone charbroiled to your liking. $20.95

Six ounce choice sirloin char-grilled and served open faced on Texas toast. $7.95

Fish & Chips

Ribeye

Twelve ounces of charbroiled choice ribeye to your liking. $19.95

Top Sirloin

Six ounces of hand battered cod, fried to perfection. Served with tartar sauce, and choice of seasoned or regular fries. $8.95

Breaded Shrimp

Eight ounces of charbroiled choice sirloin to your liking. $17.95

Five jumbo hand-battered prawns, fried to perfection. Served with homemade cocktail sauce. $13.95

SANDWICHES & WRAPS Served with choice of chips, fries or potato salad.

BLT

Philly Cheese Steak

An old classic bacon, lettuce and tomato. $5.95

Tender roast beef with sauteed onions, green bell peppers and mushrooms on a grilled hoagie, topped with Swiss cheese. $8.95

Grilled Ham & Cheese

Turkey Bacon Wraps

Cheese bread. $6.95

Smoked turkey breast, bacon, American cheese, lettuce and tomato wrapped in a flour tortilla. Served with ranch dressing on the side. $6.95

Tuna Salad Sandwich

Tuna salad on choice of bread with lettuce and tomato. $6.95

French Dip

Southwest Wrap

Tender roast beef on a grilled hoagie roll with au jus. $7.95

Strips of grilled chicken, green chilies, lettuce and tomato wrapped in a flour tortilla. Served with ranch dressing on the side. $8.95

Casino Club Sandwich

Turkey, ham, bacon, mayo, Swiss and American cheese, lettuce and tomato served on three pieces of toasted bread of your choice. $8.95

sides Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Guacamole

Vegetable

Baked Potato

Cup of Red/Green Chile

Jalapenos

Gravy

Pinto Beans

Shredded Cheese

$3.95

(white or brown) $3.95

$1.95

$2.95

$.95

$1.95

A 15% Gratuity will be added to parties of 8 or more.

62 â&#x20AC;˘ Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide â&#x20AC;˘ www.cortezjournal.com

A Full Service Bank

Welcomes You To Our Beautiful Rocky Mountains Have A Memorable Visit And A Safe Journey Home

Cortez • 565-5432 Fax 565-4352 • 27880 Hwy 160

Mancos • 533-7736 Fax 533-7925 • 138 N. Main • PO Box 450

Lobby Hours: 9-4 Mon - Thur; 9-5 Fri Drive-Up Hours 8:30-5 Mon - Thur; 8-6 Fri ATM-24 Hours • Cirrus/Plus www.MancosValleyBank.com

Southwest Colorado Visitors Guide • www.cortezjournal.com • 63

Great Horse Property!

10 ac. w/irrg. and lake views! Custom w/bonus room, barn & RV storage. $379,000 #662671

Affordable Home!

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DUPLEX

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