Canyons of the Ancients, declared a National Monument in 2000, covers almost 164,000 acres of high desert in the southwestern corner of Colorado. This area has the highest known archaeological site density in the nation, but many of the sites are in remote backcountry and most are covered with vegetation. The Visitor Center for the Canyons of the Ancients is located at the Anasazi Heritage Center, just outside Dolores, Colorado.

POINTS OF INTEREST:

Monument sites accessible to visitors include the Anasazi Heritage Center, Lowry Pueblo and Sand Canyon/East Rock Canyon.

DISTANCE FROM CORTEZ: 10 miles to Visitor Center at Anasazi Heritage Center
DAY TRIPPIN' TIME: 1 - 2 Days
ACCESS:Car; Walking; Sand Canyon requires some serious hiking so plan accordingly. Some Admission Fees.
SERVICES: Cortez, Dolores