Explore ancient Indian sites

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument contains the densest concentration of archaeological sites in the nation. Over 6,000 archaeological sites (including dwellings, petroglyphs, hunting camps and shrines) have been recorded, and many more await documentation. The archaeological information contained in these sites holds evidence of cultures and traditions spanning thousands of years. The Monument is a rugged area intertwined with natural and cultural resources. The Monument is considered a backcountry area that has no permanent source of water, few roads and minimal facilities. Visitors are advised to bring water, fuel and maps. Visitors can protect the nation's cultural resources by remembering to follow archaeological site etiquette and leave no trace ethics. Visitors are asked to come to the Anasazi Heritage Center to get maps and information about places to visit in the Monument. There are some accessible archaeological sites, but visitors need to get information from the Center to make their way through the network of gravel and dirt roads. For more information cal 970-882-5600 or visit the website at www.co.blm.gov/canm.

Clouds drift by Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock Archaeological Area lies on 3,160 acres of San Juan National Forest land surrounded by the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. Hundreds of individual sites dot the landscape. Some sites have been excavated and studied, then reburied to protect them and the valuable information they hold. The Chimney Rock Hikes and Lifestyles Workshops give participants an opportunity to experience firsthand the environment, culture and lifestyle of the early people of Chimney Rock. Early people developed sophisticated skills to utilize the natural resources in the area for food, medicine, tools, clothing, baskets and pottery. For specific information about tour times and workshop fees and requirements, call the Visitors' Cabin (970) 883-5359 mid-May through September or (970) 264-2268 during the off-season (October 1 to mid-May). Visit the Chimney Rock Archaeological Area's website at www.chimneyrockco.org. 

Southern Ute Reservation, Ignacio

Southern Utes dance at powwow

City Profile

Elevation: 6,445'
Population: 669
Average Midsummer Temperature: 80 degrees

Summer Events

The Southern Ute Tribe in Ignacio has some interesting events happening this summer. The following are open to the public and any necessary instructions for admission will be given at the event gate. Southern Ute tribe number: 970-563-0100

May 28-31 – Bear Dance

May 28 – Bear Dance Pow Wow

May 29 – Handgame tournament

May 31 – Walk of the Warriors

June 2-3 – All-Indian Rodeo

July 1-2 – Pro Rodeo

July 9-11 – Sundance

Jr. Miss Indian Colorado XVII: Sierrah Lofton-Bearrobe

July 12 – Sundance Feast

Sept. 17-19 – Pow Wow

The following events will be held this summer at the Sky Ute Lodge &Casino in Ignacio. For more information, call 970-563-3373.

June 18-20 – Sky Ute Casino Annual Pow Wow (Miss Indian Colorado pageant will be here this year)

July 17 – 5 bouts of professional boxing

August 14 – Annual Tamale Festival. Amateur and professionals vie for the title of "Top Tamale" in separate categories

 Ute Mountain Ute Reservation, Towac

City Profile

5,843 6,445'
Population: 1,097
Average Midsummer Temperature: 88 degrees

Summer Events

Ute Mountain Ute Tribe number:
970-564-5725

June 4-7 – Bear Dance. Includes pow wow, hand games and feast

The following are Ute Mountain Ute Casino events. For more information, call 970-565-8800, Ext. 141.

June 19 – Pam Tillis live in concert

July 3 – 4th of July celebration, with the largest aerial display in the 4 Corners.

September 10-12 – Ute Mountain Ute Casino Anniversary Weekend. A pow wow will be hosted with $40,000 in prize money for the Native American dancers. Music festival and a Native American hand game tournament with $22,500 in prize money.