TRAIL OF THE ANCIENTS BYWAY CREATES FOUR CORNERS GEOTOURISM MAP WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

— Mesa Verde Country® Takes Lead in Focus on Geotourism —

A land of enchanted landscapes and enduring people, the Four Corners region traverses a portion of the American Southwest that, once experienced, can not easily be forgotten. The visitor returns home with memories of red rock landscapes carved by wind and water, tough and complex animal life and enduring cultures shaped over the centuries. This area is home to the longest occupation by native human communities over a time spectrum rarely intact elsewhere. From Paleolithic society to Ancestral Puebloans, to nomadic Navajo, Apache and Ute tribes, to the impact of European settlers, these native communities endure. Century old traditions are still honored and new traditions are continually being honed in this rugged environment. All this is reflected in a National Geographic MapGuide and website of the Four Corners, produced by National Geographic.

The MapGuide is a full-color, waterproof, tear-resistant map titled the "Four Corners Region—Trail of the Ancients." The destination map guide provides directions to and vivid descriptions of historic structures and archeological sites; scenic landscapes and wildlife viewing areas; trails and outdoor recreation; local cuisine and culture; festivals and events; artists and river guides. In other words, the map highlights the people and destinations that contribute to the beauty and diversity of the Four Corners.

The official "Four Corners Region—Trail of the Ancients" interactive website — www.fourcornersgeotourism.com — also a National Geographic production, offers even more detail about Four Corners Geotourism destinations and unlike the printed MapGuide will continue to grow and reflect the culture of the area over time.

This is a significant achievement for the Four Corners region. These National Geographic initiatives are the result of hundreds of thousands of dollars — and countless hours — that were invested into spotlighting the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the Four Corners.

Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the geographic character of a place, its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. More specifically, Geotourism is an increasingly popular tourism niche that includes adventure and nature-based travel, eco- and agri-tourism, and cultural and heritage travel. To explore Geotourism further visit www.fourcornersgeotourism.com.

Mesa Verde Country® (www.mesaverdecountry.com)
Mesa Verde Country® is the southwest Colorado travel destination surrounding Mesa Verde National Park. Visitors to the area will find — along with the park — two national scenic byways, one national forest, two national monuments, one tribal park and the largest archaeological reserve in the United States. The towns of Cortez, Dolores, Mancos and Towaoc, and the entire Mesa Verde Country area, comprise the archaeological center of America.