Chimney Rock Interpretive Association May 2026 Newsletter

CHIMNEY ROCK INTERPRETIVE ASSOCIATION MAY 2026 NEWSLETTER

Where Culture is the Adventure

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Opening Day...May 15, 2026 The 2026 season at Chimney Rock National Monument is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome you back beginning Opening Day on May 15, 2026.

This season invites you to experience Chimney Rock in a variety of meaningful ways. Take a guided tour and walk in the footsteps of the Ancient Puebloans, attend an engaging lecture to deepen your understanding of the culture and landscape, or participate in one of our educational programs designed to bring the Monument’s history to life. Whether you’re exploring the Great House Pueblo, enjoying a family-friendly program, or learning from knowledgeable presenters, each experience offers a unique connection to this remarkable site. Be sure to also visit the Visitor Center and Gift Shop to continue your journey and find resources that enhance your visit.

For more than 20 years, Chimney Rock Interpretive Association has proudly partnered with the U.S. Forest Service to support tours, programs, and preservation efforts at Chimney Rock. This longstanding collaboration helps ensure that the stories, history, and cultural significance of the Monument are shared with visitors from around the world.

Be sure to tune in to KWUF Radio to hear more about upcoming events, programs, and ways to get involved throughout the season.

Education & Interpretation in Action A classroom without walls Astronomical alignments and lunar cycles Engineering of the Great House Pueblo Trade routes and regional networks Cultural continuity and ancestral traditions Our Impact Last season, 19,000 of visitors experienced guided interpretation, educational programs were delivered, volunteers contributed hundreds of service hours, and preservation initiatives continued through collaborative partnerships.

INSIDE Opening Day: May 15, 2026 Upcoming Lecture: David Bouquet Life at Chimney Rock Information Guided Great House Tour May Calendar of Events Tip of the Month Continuing Education CRIA Board of Directors

Every ticket purchased, every donation made,and every volunteer hour strengthens our ability to steward this sacred place.

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Making a Difference at Chimney RocK Chimney Rock Program Supporter Levels At Chimney Rock National Monument, the work of Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA) extends far beyond a single program. Through School Week, Life at Chimney Rock, guided tours, lectures, and special events, CRIA creates meaningful connections to history, culture, and the land—many offered free or at low cost to ensure access for all.

Each season, these programs reach hundreds of visitors of all ages. From students exploring hands-on activities like rock art and atlatl demonstrations to adults attending lectures and cultural events, these experiences spark curiosity and deepen appreciation for this remarkable place.

With the help of dedicated volunteers and generous supporters, these efforts continue to inspire and connect visitors year after year.

Your support helps ensure these programs remain accessible and impactful for future generations.

Level

Contribution

Supporter of Chimney Rock

$50-$99

Listed in one CRIA Newsletter

$100–$249

Name listed CRIA website Listed in CRIA Newsletter Listed in group social media post

$250–$499

Name listed CRIA website Listed in CRIA Newsletter 1 individual shoutout on Social Media Digital “Proud Supporter” badge for your website

$500–$999

Business name + website link listed on CRIA website Listed in CRIA newsletter + logo included with link 2 business shoutouts on Social Media Digital “Proud Supporter” badge for your website

$1,000+

Prominent logo placement + link on CRIA website Listed in CRIA Newsletter for 6 months with link to business website 2 business shoutouts on social media Feature ad in upcoming newsletter (1/2 page) Digital “Proud Supporter” badge for your website

Friend of Chimney Rock

Steward of Chimney Rock

Community Partner

Heritage Sponsor

Recognitions

* Currently 2+K subscribers to CRIA Newsletter / ** Currently 15+K followers on Facebook

Contact us at (970) 731-7133, OfficeMgr@ChimneyRockCo.org or scan the QR Code to show your support!

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

2026 Free Lecture Series Southwestern Native Rock Art - David Bouquet Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - Methodist Church, Pagosa Springs, CO This engaging presentation will introduce attendees to the various types of rock art, showcasing some of the oldest known examples from around the globe. David will then guide the audience through a visual journey of Puebloan rock art sites across the American Southwest, with a map highlighting their presence in Monuments, National and State Parks, and lands managed by the Forest Service and BLM. The lecture will also delve into the important work of the Northwest New Mexico Site Steward Program, which helps protect culturally significant locations that lack formal preservation. Attendees will be treated to stunning photographic examples of rock art panels from prominent sites including Hovenweep National Monument, Bears Ears National Monument, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Chaco Culture National Historic Park, and Mesa Verde National Park.

David will also reflect on the irreplaceable Puebloan and Navajo rock art lost during the creation of Navajo Lake in 1962. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of potential rock art at Chimney Rock National Monument, just outside Pagosa Springs.

Doors Open at 5:45 PM | Lecture 6:00-7:00 PM

2026 Lecture Series Tuesday, May 19, 2026: David Bouquet, “Southwestern Native Rock Art” Tuesday, June 23, 2026: Andy Gulliford, “The Native Americans of the Chimney Rock Area” Tuesday, August 11, 2026: John Ghahate, “The Pueblo Revolt” Tuesday, October 6, 2026: John Kappelman, “The Dating Game: Archeological Dating Methods”

Doors open at 5:45pm - Lectures begin promptly at 6:00pm followed by a brief Q&A Session with the Presenter.

See details about the lectures on our website by clicking HERE. All lectures will take place at the Community United Methodist Church in Pagosa Springs, CO, located at 434 Lewis St, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147.

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Life at Chimney Rock

The Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA) is excited to welcome visitors to the annual Life at Chimney Rock Festival, taking place Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Chimney Rock National Monument. Thanks to a special waiver from the U.S. Forest Service, this year’s festival is completely free to attend.

This family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to experience the traditions and daily life of the Ancestral Puebloans through interactive demonstrations led by CRIA volunteers. Guests can try hands-on activities such as yucca pounding, coil pottery, weaving, corn grinding, and atlatl spear throwing, while also learning about astronomy, flint knapping, and dendrochronology. Traditional foods, including Anasazi beans, will also be available to sample.

A highlight of the weekend is the Native American Market, featuring artists from the Pueblos of Acoma, Laguna, Santo Domingo, and Santa Clara, along with Navajo, Jicarilla Apache, and Southern Ute artisans. Visitors can shop for authentic handmade goods and watch live demonstrations.

The festival also includes live cultural performances, with the Roach Family Dancers performing at 11:00 AM and the Fragua Family of Jemez Pueblo at 2:00 PM on both days.

Food vendors will be on-site offering a variety of options, including barbecue, fry bread, and frito pie. In addition, guests are encouraged to explore the monument’s trails, cultural sites, and Visitor Plaza, all open during the event.

Join us for a weekend of culture, history, and hands-on discovery in a truly remarkable setting.

Event Details June 6–7, 2026 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Chimney Rock National Monument 30841 State Highway 151, Pagosa Springs, 81147

Admission: Free

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Guided Great House Tour visitors are rewarded with sweeping 360-degree panoramic views and the closest possible vantage point of the Monument’s iconic twin pinnacles— Chimney Rock and Companion Rock. Peregrine falcons are often seen soaring near Companion Rock, adding an exciting element for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

While the experience is incredibly rewarding, the hike is moderately strenuous. The trail includes a 200-foot elevation gain, uneven terrain, and a steep descent on the return, reaching an elevation The Guided Great House Tour at Chimney Rock of approximately 7,600 feet. Visitors should be in National Monument offers visitors an reasonable physical condition, wear sturdy shoes, unforgettable journey into the past—blending and bring water for the climb. history, culture, and breathtaking scenery into a For those prepared to make the journey, the truly meaningful experience.

Guided Great House Tour offers more than just a Offered daily at 10:30 AM, this personalized tour is hike—it’s a powerful connection to the history, one of the Monument’s most popular programs. culture, and landscape that define Chimney Rock Knowledgeable guides lead visitors along the 1/3- National Monument. mile Great Pueblo Trail, making several stops to share stories and insights about the ancient Puebloan structures built more than 1,000 years ago. Along the way, guests gain a deeper understanding of the people who once lived here and their connection to the larger Chacoan world centered at Chaco Canyon, nearly 90 miles to the southwest.

As the trail climbs steadily upward, the landscape begins to unfold in remarkable ways. Expansive views of the Piedra River Valley and surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop while guides point out natural features and cultural connections that shaped daily life for the Ancient Puebloans.

The journey culminates at the Chacoan Great House Pueblo, perched atop the mesa ridge. Here,

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(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Upcoming Special Events 2026 Opening 2026 Opening Day Day May 15 May 15 2026 Lecture 2026 Lecture Series Series May 19 May 19 Speaker: David Speaker: David Bouquet Bouquet “Southwest Native “Southwest Native Rock Rock Art” Art” (Free Admission) (Free Admission) Life at Life at Chimney Chimney Rock Rock Festival Festival June 6 June 6 -- 7 7 (Free Admission) (Free Admission)

Support the Mission The Chimney Rock Interpretive Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the preservation, interpretation, and education efforts at Chimney Rock National Monument.

Educational programming Volunteer training Site preservation initiatives Community outreach Special events and lectures

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Continuing Education CRIA will be instituting a “Continuing Education” Program to help us improve as volunteers, to broaden our knowledge of Chimney Rock and Puebloan culture, and to keep us all current on changing interpretations from the academic literature and other Puebloan sites. This program is focused on Guides, Hosts, and Interpreters, but will be open to all volunteers and staff. The Continuing Education program will be presented at least once every season, preferably just before season opening. The Continuing Education Program will be presented in modules and will likely include exciting field trips to other Puebloan sites.

Examples of planned modules/topics could include: ·A review of updates to the Core Curriculum and other changes in interpretation from the academic literature ·Learnings from the previous season about how to improve the visitor experience ·Native American speakers on topics like cultural sensitivity and modern Puebloan cultures ·Additions to the new CRIA office information library ·Share a general topic about archeology, anthropology, archeoastronomy, etc. ·Share some aspect of the natural setting (e.g. plants, animals, geology, astronomy, etc.) ·An optional field trip at least once a year to other Puebloan sites ·Volunteers can also request topics that they would like to hear about and/or give presentations on subjects of interest.

These sessions will be recorded for those unable to attend the live on- line sessions.

The Continuing Education Program will be held May 6th from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at the Community Methodist Church in Pagosa Springs.

For further information or questions contact Ernie O’toole (eotoole1@yahoo.com) or David Bouquet (damajo22@gmail.com).

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Trail Tip of the Month: Start Early, Soak It In The morning at Chimney Rock National Monument offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience this remarkable place.

Cooler temperatures, softer light, and quieter trails create the perfect setting to explore at a comfortable pace.

Plan to arrive early in the day to make the most of your visit. The gentle morning light enhances the natural colors of the landscape and provides ideal conditions for photography, while also helping you avoid the midday heat —especially important when hiking to higher elevations.

As you move along the trail, take advantage of the peaceful surroundings. Listen for birds, watch for wildlife, and notice how the light shifts across the rock formations. These quieter moments can deepen your connection to the landscape and the history it holds.

By starting your day early, you give yourself the time and space to truly experience Chimney Rock—not just as a destination, but as a place to slow down, reflect, and enjoy every step along the way.

Gates to Chimney Rock National Monument open at 9:00 AM daily, exceot for early tours.

Every visit to Chimney Rock National Monument means so much to us. We’re grateful for everyone who comes to explore this special place.

Your visit helps keep its stories and history alive.

Donations are always appreciated and support education and preservation.

Thank you for being part of our community—we look forward to welcoming you.

Learn more or donate: www.ChimneyRockCo.org or Scan the QR Code to support Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

CHIMNEY ROCK INTERPRETIVE ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jill Sutton President

Ernie O’Toole Vice President

Bernadette Sikes

Rhonda Julian

Secretary

Treasurer

Tony Aldwell

Ronnie Vera Doctor

Kathleen Thompson

Trustee At Large

Trustee At Large

Trustee At Large

John Kappelman Trustee At Large

Joanne Lucariello Trustee At Large

We look forward to your visit and to sharing in the experience of this truly remarkable place.

Chimney Rock is more than a destination—it is a landscape rich with history, culture, and connection. As stewards and advocates, we are honored to help preserve and share the stories of the Ancestral Puebloans and the significance of this sacred site.

Our passion for Chimney Rock National Monument is what brings us together, and it is our privilege to help create meaningful experiences for each visitor who walks these trails and takes in these views.

We hope your time here inspires curiosity, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the history and beauty that make Chimney Rock so special.

We look forward to welcoming you.

(970) 731-7133 | www.ChimneyRockCo.org | P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Tribal Partnerships Since Chimney Rock was designated a National Monument by Presidential Proclamation 2012, the San Juan National Forest consults and partners with many Native American Tribes and Pueblos to manage the monument, including restoration. In August 2024, the Ancestral Lands Conservation Corps (a corps program that partners with tribal communities and land managers to accomplish projects based in historical preservation and traditional knowledge) conducted a structural stabilization project at Chimney Rock National Monument.

The Chimney Rock area holds deep spiritual significance for modern pueblo and tribal communities. Today, descendants of the Ancestral Puebloans, Navajo, Jicarilla Apache and Ute return to this important place of cultural continuity for ceremonial and traditional purposes. The area is also an important source of traditional cultural materials that are collected by tribal members for food and medicine. Chimney Rock National Monument is managed to protect and preserve access by tribal members for traditional cultural, spiritual, food and medicine gathering purposes, consistent with the purposes of the monument, to the maximum extent permitted by law.

The San Juan National Forest ensures that the hunting rights of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe within the exterior boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, including lands within the Monument, are upheld. The San Juan National Forest also ensures that the hunting and fishing rights of the 1873 Brunot Agreement are upheld on public lands under its management jurisdiction, including those lands within the Monument.

Tribes with ancestral and cultural ties to the Chimney Rock National Monument landscape: Kewa Pueblo Pueblo of Santa Ana Pueblo de Cochiti Pueblo of Santa Clara Pueblo of Acoma Pueblo of Taos Pueblo of Isleta Pueblo of Tesuque Pueblo of Jemez Pueblo of Zia Pueblo of Laguna Zuni Tribe of the Zuni Reservation Pueblo of Nambé Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo of Picuris Hopi Tribe Pueblo of Pojoaque Jicarilla Apache Nation Pueblo of San Felipe Navajo Nation Pueblo of San Ildefonso Pueblo of Sandia Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Southern Ute Indian Tribe Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah & Ouray Reservation https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/sanjuan/recreation/chimney-rock-national-monument

SUPPORT THE MISSION www.ChimneyRockCo.org

To book and see a full listing of tour/program times and dates, scan the QR Code.

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Chimney Rock Interpretive Association P.O. Box 1662 Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 970-731-7133

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Chimney Rock National Monument 30841 State Highway 151 Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 970-883-2496