Modern History of Cortez

Cortez, Colorado, was established in the heart of the Four Corners area where Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona intersect, and is a town that offers visitors a chance to explore history and unwind in nature. It’s not just a gateway to historical wonders but also an opportunity to pursue a more active lifestyle. You’ll never be at a loss for healthy things to do in Cortez, Colorado.

Dolores River Canyon Irrigation System

The town was established in 1886 to accommodate workers constructing a vast irrigation system to divert water from the Dolores River into the Montezuma Valley, aiming to transform the valley’s red soil into fertile farmland.

However, following several boom-and-bust periods, the town’s proximity to the Four Corners region’s natural wonders (and national parks and monuments) soon made it a hub for tourism. Today, visitors travel from around the world to experience the blend of multicultural history and natural beauty Cortez offers.

Stepping Further Back in Time: The Historical Heart of Cortez

While founded in the late 1800s, Cortez’s story begins long before modern records, with the ancient Ancestral Puebloans who once thrived in the area. 

It’s not often that one reads “local history” and “ancient ruins” in the same sentence, but that’s part of the appeal of the southwest corner of Colorado.

Mesa Verde National Park

One of the places in which these early inhabitants left their legacy is nearby Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their cliff dwellings and artifacts offer a glimpse into a sophisticated civilization that flourished over a thousand years ago. 

It’s also a wonderful backdrop for exercise. Whether you’re taking one of the guided tours to Cliff Palace or taking a self-guided tour along the canyon rim, historical hikes in Mesa Verde offer a gentle nudge towards physical activity (a good place to start if you tend to be more sedentary), enhancing the cultural learning experience with the benefits of walking. It’s a great place to spend a few hours or a few days if time permits.

Hovenweep National Monument

Not far from Cortez is Hovenweep National Monument, which affords more opportunities to hike and learn about the prehistoric civilizations of the region.

Square Tower Group Trails at Hovenweep are designed to take you within just a few feet of structures dating back to 1200 – 1300 AD, and trails range in difficulty from paved paths to moderate hikes.

Ute Mountain Tribal Park

Just to the south of Cortez is the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, which offers both morning and all-day guided hikes through Lion Canyon, where you can admire Ancestral Puebloan pictographs, Ute pictograph panels, geological formations, and cliff dwellings. 

Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Lowry Pueblo

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, about 10 miles west of Cortez, encompasses the highest known density of archaeological sites in North America (about 8,500 identified so far), along with Lowry Pueblo, an Ancestral Puebloan site with a 40-room village. It is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Four Corners region. 

Nature’s Playground Outside Your Door

Cortez is surrounded by a diverse landscape, perfect for those who love outdoor activities. The town serves as a base camp for walking, hiking, and rafting adventures in the San Juan National Forest. 

Trails for Every Trekker

Whether it’s a leisurely walk in the Hawkins Preserve or an invigorating mountain bike ride in Phil’s World, Cortez’s trails cater to all. While centered around enjoyment and exploration, these activities can also contribute to your well-being, offering a balanced approach to health and adventure.

No matter where you choose to walk or hike — in a national park or monument with a guide or exploring other hiking trails in the Four Corners region on your own — be prepared with food, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, extra socks, and a good pair of boots!

Cultural Richness: A Feast for the Mind, Body, and Soul

Cortez’s cultural landscape is as vast as its natural one. The Cortez Cultural Center provides a hub for the town’s special events, festivals, and history and offers energizing experiences for locals and tourists. This social involvement and physical activity engages the mind and fosters community spirit, contributing to an overall sense of well-being. 

Culinary and Craft: Taste and Explore

The food and drink scene in Cortez is a further reflection of its multicultural roots. From Mexican favorites to Asian cuisines and barbecue to small-plate tapas, this municipality of fewer than 9,000 people offers a dining experience far exceeding typical small-town expectations. 

Top-notch restaurants in downtown Cortez cater to all food preferences, including healthier farm-to-table options for those mindful of their diet.

Your Journey to Cortez Awaits

Cortez invites you to its part of southwest Colorado, where history, nature, and wellness converge. It’s a place where nearly every path leads to cultural insights, and almost every activity can contribute to your health and happiness. Plan your visit with some of these fun things to do in Cortez, Colorado, and experience the unique blend of prehistoric exploration while encouraging your future well-being.

Brought to you by San Juan Regional Medical Center. At San Juan Regional Medical Center, we believe in creating life better here for our community. Our goal is to provide you with the resources and tools you need to live a healthy life and enjoy the activities that make you complete.

San Juan Regional Medical Center— improving the quality of life for those we serve.

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