Nestled south of Cortez, Colorado, lies a hidden gem offering a unique glimpse into the past: the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park. This summer, visitors have a rare opportunity to explore ancient ruins under the guidance of knowledgeable tribal members, but with limited spots available, these tours are filling up fast. The Tribal park set to offer guided tours through ruins on Ute Mountain this summer provides an immersive cultural and historical experience unlike any other in the region.
Veronica Cuthair, the dedicated director of the tribal park, emphasizes the limited nature of these special tours. Held on select Sundays in July and August, one of the scheduled excursions is already at capacity. A unique opportunity also arises on Memorial Day during the park’s seventh annual Tribal Park Open House, featuring visits to multiple ruin sites. Regular tour operations span from March through October, offering a broader window for exploration.
"We have a combination of Anasazi, or ancestral Puebloan sites, and we have Ute sites with Ute pictographs," Cuthair explains, highlighting the diverse cultural heritage preserved within the park’s boundaries. "It’s the same terrain as Mesa Verde, but our (park) is noncommercial." This distinction sets the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park apart, offering a more intimate and authentic experience focused on education and cultural preservation rather than mass tourism. The Tribal park set to offer guided tours through ruins on Ute Mountain this summer serves as a vital bridge between the past and present.
The highly sought-after Pool Canyon tour presents a particularly captivating adventure. The journey begins with a scenic drive through Mesa Verde National Park, providing a contextual backdrop to the region’s rich history. From there, participants embark on a three-mile round trip hike to explore four remarkable cliff dwellings. These sites were initially documented and named by Gustaf Nordenskold, an early explorer who ventured into the area in the late 19th century.
Prospective tour participants should be aware that the Pool Canyon tour demands a reasonable level of physical fitness. The terrain can be challenging, and participants are responsible for their own comfort and safety. Essential gear includes sturdy hiking shoes, appropriate clothing, and, most importantly, an adequate supply of water – at least a gallon per person – to combat the arid climate. A packed lunch is also recommended to sustain energy levels throughout the day’s activities. The cost for the Pool Canyon tour is $60 per person, with an additional $12 fee for transportation. The tour commences promptly at 8:15 a.m. at the Ute Mountain Pottery plant, conveniently located south of Cortez.
Beyond the special Pool Canyon tour, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park offers a variety of guided experiences throughout its expansive 125,000-acre landscape. Cuthair emphasizes the personalized nature of these tours, noting that each group is limited to fewer than 30 people per guide. This intimate setting allows for a more engaging and informative experience, fostering a deeper connection with the Ute Mountain Ute heritage.
"You get a personalized type of tour out here. You really get to know your Indian guide, and it’s unusual compared to Mesa Verde National Park," Cuthair states, highlighting the unique advantage of learning directly from tribal members who possess an intimate understanding of the land and its history. These guides share their personal stories, cultural insights, and ancestral knowledge, providing a perspective that is often absent in more commercialized tourist destinations.
A full-day tour at the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park is a comprehensive exploration of the region’s diverse landscape and cultural heritage. The itinerary typically covers more than 80 miles of dirt and gravel roads, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. The tour also includes a significant hiking component, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. A highlight of the full-day tour is the opportunity to climb five ladders to access and explore four remarkably preserved cliff dwellings. These ancient structures provide a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the lives of the people who once inhabited these remarkable spaces.
In addition to the full-day tour, the park also offers half-day and private tour options, catering to a variety of interests and schedules. These shorter tours provide a condensed yet informative overview of the park’s key attractions and cultural significance. For those seeking an extended stay, the park also features a campground, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Ute Mountain landscape.
The Tribal park set to offer guided tours through ruins on Ute Mountain this summer is a remarkable destination for those seeking an authentic and educational cultural experience. It is a place where visitors can connect with the past, learn about the Ute Mountain Ute people, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Four Corners region.
The Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park represents a unique opportunity to experience history and culture firsthand. Unlike the more commercialized attractions in the region, the park offers an intimate and personalized experience, guided by members of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. This connection to the land and its history is invaluable, providing insights that go beyond the typical tourist experience. The Tribal park set to offer guided tours through ruins on Ute Mountain this summer is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a chance to learn, connect, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Ute Mountain Ute people.
For more information about the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park, including tour schedules, pricing, and camping reservations, please visit their website at Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park. You can also contact the park directly at the following address and phone number:
P.O. BOX 109, Towaoc, Colorado
Direct phone: (970) 565-9653
E-Mail: utepark@fone.net
Visitor Center: Located Corner of Highway Junction 160/491 in the Majestic Four Corners area
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Ute Mountain and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Ute Mountain Ute people. Book your tour today!