THE RANCH

the RANCH

CANYON OF THE ANCIENTS GUEST RANCH

Nestled in the tranquil countryside of Cortez, Colorado, in close proximity to Mesa Verde National Park and the picturesque McElmo Canyon, our lodging accommodations offer a serene haven for you to rejuvenate your spirits as you embark on a journey through millennia of ancient wonders. Our establishment is not your typical bed and breakfast; instead, it comprises private homes and cozy rental cabins. Here, we open our doors to fellow enthusiasts who share our deep passion for history, archaeology, and the captivating beauty of Southwestern Colorado.

There are over 5,000 documented archaeological sites in this beautiful area waiting for you to explore, and the dark sky stargazing is so fabulous that you just cannot miss. The Ranch was once owned by a legendary cowboy, Elden Zwicker. Also, the road that leads to the Ranch has been called “Mormon Road” since early Mormons used it to migrate to Utah. The road is also nicknamed “Robber’s Path”, as Butch Cassidy is rumored to have hid his fortune in the Canyon.

CANYON OF THE ANCIENTS

Nowhere else in the United States can you see so many ancient sites, art, and artifacts than you can at this monument scattered across 176,000 acres. The adventure and discoveries seem endless. This national monument has more than 6,350 documented ancient sites (and an estimated 30,000 total sites), including kivas, rock art, and even multi-room dwellings of the ancient residents of this region. The remnants left behind give a glimpse into the lives of the native people, from their shrines to agricultural fields to sweat lodges and fascinating petroglyphs. Canyons of the Ancients was designed a National Monument in 2000.

Containing the highest known density of archaeological sites in the Nation, the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument holds evidence of cultures and traditions spanning thousands of years. This area, with its intertwined natural and cultural resources, is a rugged landscape, a quality that greatly contributes to the protection of its scientific and historic objects. The monument offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe, study, and experience how cultures lived and adapted over time in the American Southwest. For more information, please contact the Anasazi Heritage Center.

Visit The Canyon Of The Ancients Guest Ranch Website

THE RANCH