Mancos, Colorado, sits on Highway 160 between Durango and Cortez. Don’t let its small size fool you. Mancos is big on fun! Near Mesa Verde National Park, the area is ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. Additionally, nearby Mancos State Park provides opportunities for fishing amid scenic landscapes.
But you don’t have to get outside of town to have fun. If you’re visiting Mancos and looking for a place to stay, stay with us at the Mesa Verde Motel. Our recently renovated boutique motel is the perfect place to start your day. Stop by the motel’s coffee bar and then head into town to enjoy what Mancos has to offer.
Discover Mancos, Colorado
Drawn by the area’s distinct Western character, the famous Western writer Louis L’Amour used Mancos as the setting for several of his books. However, you don’t have to be well-known to have fun in Mancos. Wander through town to admire its historic architecture, explore unique shops and galleries, dine at local restaurants, and savor cider crafted from locally harvested apples.
Annual Events in Mancos
If you’re traveling in the Four Corners Region, be sure to make Mancos a stop on your trip. You might want to time your visit to take part in some of the town’s annual events. Our friendly staff at the Mesa Verde Motel live in or near town. We’re experts on the places to go and things to do in the area, making our motel the perfect base camp for your Mancos, Colorado, activities.
Mancos BurroFest
In June, the Mancos Creative District hosts BurroFest, inspired by the long-standing role of burros in art and Colorado’s mining history. The event celebrates the talents of both burros and artists, featuring an obstacle course, costume contest, and live burro models for artists to capture in their work. Guests can meet these fantastic animals and their owners, watch live art demonstrations, view artist renditions of the burros, and enjoy plenty of food with live music.
Mesa Verde Motel is a far out place for human people, providing boutique lodging accommodation near Mesa Verde National Park.
191 W. Railroad Ave
Mancos, Colorado 81328
970-533-7741
Story sponsored by the Mesa Verde Motel
Mancos Farmers Market
The local Farmers’ Market starts in June and goes through the summer. Every Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m., shoppers can pick up fresh, local produce, browse art created by local talents, sample food truck fare, and enjoy live music. Stop by to enjoy this event in picturesque Mancos!
Mancos Days
In July, the annual Mancos Days celebration offers a lineup of activities for locals and visitors alike. Highlights include a kiddie parade, the Friends of the Library book sale, softball and baseball tournaments, a teen movie night, a pancake breakfast, and wiffle ball, volleyball, and cornhole tournaments. A flag ceremony conducted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars honors local veterans.
One of the most anticipated moments during Mancos Days is the coronation of the Mancos Colorado Days Pioneer Queen, recognizing a long-time resident. The chosen Pioneer Queen is honored with a handmade quilt raffled during the event. As with other Mancos events, expect plenty of live music and food to round out the celebration.
Mancos Valley Brewfest
Each year in late August, Mancos Brewery hosts its popular Mancos Valley Summer Brewfest, featuring offerings from local breweries, cider makers, and winemakers. With live music, delicious food, and proceeds supporting a local charity, it’s a fantastic way to wrap up the summer season.
Mancos Art Market
This event takes place in November and allows artists and makers to display and sell their original art or craft items. Also known locally as Mancos Artist Sunday, it draws a big crowd. In addition to art and other creative objects, attendees can enjoy live music, food, and beverages. It’s a great way to get in some holiday shopping too.
Nearby Activities
While there are plenty of fun activities in Mancos, nearby attractions are also a draw to the area. Whether you plan to stay in Mancos to enjoy the many town events or travel to nearby points of interest, the Mesa Verde Motel can provide comfortable accommodations for your visit and help guide you in your explorations.
Mesa Verde National Park
Located less than 10 miles from Mancos, this iconic destination offers the chance to explore ancient cliff dwellings, hike scenic trails, or take a self-guided driving tour. Discover what makes Mesa Verde National Park a must-see stop.
Mountain Biking Trails
The annual 12 Hours of Mesa Verde Bike Race takes place nearby in Cortez at the renowned Phil’s World Trail System. For more biking, Mancos is also close to popular trails like Boggy Draw and Chicken Creek, providing great beginner options.
Hiking Paths
Many trails around Mancos are ideal for both biking and hiking. The Aqueduct Trail System, for instance, features multi-use paths. Meanwhile, the West Mancos trail network caters to all skill levels, offering remarkable views, diverse plants, and wildlife.
Skiing
Cross-country skiing can be enjoyed in the Mancos-Chicken Creek area, Madden Peak Road, and along the Railroad Trail. Purgatory Resort is just 55 minutes away for downhill skiing, and Telluride Ski Resort is only about an hour and 20 minutes away. Mancos gives easy access to both, offering more affordable lodging and dining options.
We hope you’ll visit our lovely town to enjoy all that it has to offer. Please join us at the Mesa Verde Motel when you visit the area. Our boutique motel is conveniently located close to many exciting day trips, and our staff is here to help you make the most of your stay in the region.
