Mesa Verde Country is among the most memorable of our trips
Cortez, Colorado – The Mesa Verde state in southwestern Colorado is a great winter destination. The region features mountains, sunshine, and everything travelers need for the perfect cold-weather vacation at an affordable price.
The best news? Mesa Verde Country’s lack of snow doesn’t mean it lacks options for winter fun. Here are the top 5 winter sensations every traveler wants to put on their to-do list.
History and culture
Mesa Verde National Park It may be the crown jewel of Mesa Verde Country’s archaeological offerings, but it’s not the region’s only wonder. Hovenweep National Monument It includes six prehistoric villages built between 1200-1300 AD. the Anasazi Heritage Center – Also the Visitor Center for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument – Features many hands-on, interactive exhibits that focus on the local cultures of the Four Corners region. The Lowry Pueblo is typical of the medium-sized pueblo that once populated the Montezuma Valley. After a day exploring the ruins, stop by the Notah Dineh Trading Co. and Museum. Founded in 1961, this family-owned business is home to the largest collection of Native American arts and crafts in the Four Corners area.
Outdoor adventure
Mesa Verde’s archaeological sites are stunning with a dusting of snow, and some can be accessed by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing for an unforgettable winter adventure. The Chicken Creek Nordic Trail is located near the city of Mancos and offers great views of the Mancos Valley. There are over 600 acres of parkland in Cortez to allow visitors to connect with nature like the locals. For example, the Carpenter Trail is a great place for nature walks. Visitors can prepare for winter fun at the Kokopelli Bike & Board in downtown Cortez.
Farm-to-table food
Mesa Verde Country is a foodie’s paradise with farm-to-table dining options and quality restaurants serving local and sustainable cuisine that one might not expect to find in rural Colorado. The food truck craze has also reached Mesa Verde Country so that visitors can get fast and delicious meals served in a modern way. Blue Pepper Southwest BBQ, Yia Yia’s, and Silver Bean are located in Cortez, while Green Table is located in Mancos. There’s even a winter farmers’ market in Mesa Verde Country – The Four Seasons Greenhouse Winter Farmers Market.
beer and wine
Visitors will definitely want to raise a glass of Mesa Verde Country’s local brews and wines. The area has two wineries – Guy Drew Vineyards and Sutcliffe Vineyards. In addition, there are five craft breweries in Mesa Verde Country – Dolores River Brewery, Main Street Brewery, Coyote J. Brewing Company, Mancos Brewing Company, and WildEdge Brewery in Cortez.
Rustic and romantic digs
There is no shortage of great places to rest and retreat after a day exploring the Mesa Verde Country. Cozy Cabins offer great snuggling options and just provide a place to kick your feet up this winter. Canyon Ancient Guest Ranch is a private home and cabin, where the owners share their passion for history, archaeology, and the beauty of the Southwest. Dolores River Cabins are located directly on the Dolores River. Kelly Place is a unique and archaeological reserve bed and breakfast.
To plan the perfect winter getaway in Mesa Verde Country, download our new vacation planning guide, call 800-530-2998 or visit www.mesaverdecountry.com.
About Mesa Verde Country
Mesa Verde Country is located in southwestern Colorado near the entrance to the magnificent Mesa Verde National Park. The nearby cities of Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos offer accommodations, dining, outdoor fun, and visitor services. Named the “World’s Number One Historic Monument” by Condé Nast Traveler and one of the “50 Places of a Lifetime – The World’s Greatest Destinations” by National Geographic, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the country’s premier World Heritage Sites and the country’s largest archaeological reserve. . Two National Highways pass through the Mesa Verde area.
In addition to the National Park, Mesa Verde Country is filled with many other monuments: Hovenweep National Monument, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, Anasazi Heritage Center, and Cortez Cultural Center. Mountain biking enthusiasts have recognized the town of Mesa Verde as one of the next best mountain biking destinations.
Roseville Today is locally owned and community supported.
We have no affiliation with print, political or corporate media.
(now in our twentieth year)
