Canyons of the Ancients National Monument | Colorado

Plan Your Visit

Exploring Canyons of the Ancients National Monument offers an unforgettable experience in a rugged desert landscape rich in history and cultural significance. With thousands of cultural sites spread across 176,000 acres, visitors are encouraged to travel respectfully—stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing ancient structures, and leave what you find. These fragile remnants of the past reflect over 12,000 years of connections between people and the land.

Things to Do

• Visit the Interpretive Center: Start your journey at the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum, which features interactive galleries and authentic cultural objects, two on-site Pueblos, and a small gift shop.
• Take a Scenic Drive: An 88-mile scenic drive that goes around Hovenweep National Monument, managed by the National Park Service, also passes by two BLM sites with accessible trails: Lowry Pueblo National Historic Landmark and Painted Hand Pueblo. This driving loop is part of the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway managed by the Colorado Tourism Office.
• Hike and Horseback Ride: These activities are permitted throughout the Monument, except in the Sand Canyon / Rock Creek Recreation Management Area, where they are restricted to designated routes. There is a corral located off County Road 10, just northeast of BLM Road 4525.  
• Bike or Drive Off Road: Bikes and OHVs are restricted to designated off-road and trail routes. Phil’s World, located off L and M roads, offers a world class mountain biking trail system.
• Rock Climb: Climbing (rock climbing, repelling, and/or bouldering) is allowed in designated areas in the Mockingbird Mesa Recreation Management Area.
• Hunt: Hunting is permitted in undeveloped areas under state regulations. Target shooting is prohibited.
• Camp: While there are no formal campgrounds in the Monument, primitive, dispersed camping is allowed in backcountry areas. Vehicles must stay within 20 feet of the edge of route surfaces. Camping and campfires are prohibited in front-country and developed areas (trails, roads, kiosks, parking areas, etc.) and in archaeological sites.
  • Campfires require the use of firepans and must adhere to current fire restrictions. It is recommended to use lightweight stoves for cooking.
  • Additional information about camping in the Monument is available here: Camping and Occupancy Regulations for Tres Rios Field Office.
• Large Groups and Guided Tours; School Group Visits

Features and Services

• Hours and Seasons: The monument is open year-round, 24-hours per day. Cultural sites may be accessed from dawn to dusk. For Visitor Center hours, see Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum.
• Access and Road Conditions: During dry conditions, a two-wheel drive vehicle with high clearance can navigate most roads in the Monument. However, some roads are dirt and a four-wheel drive vehicle may be necessary, particularly when conditions are wet or icy. RV parking for day use activities is available at the Visitor Center and some trailheads, but access may require high clearance.
• Maps and Navigation: Digital, interactive Canyons of the Ancients and BLM Colorado maps provide useful information for identifying designated routes and avoiding trespassing on private land. Printed maps, including USGS topographic, are available at the Canyons of the Ancients National Museum and Visitor Center.
• Cell service: Reception is strong at the Visitor Center but less reliable elsewhere in the monument.
• Toilets: Toilets are available at the Visitor Center and at Lowry Pueblo.
• Drinking water: Water fountains are available at the Visitor Center.
• Pets: Pets are allowed and must be kept under voice control.

Be Safe and Prepared

When visiting the Monument, be aware of desert hiking dangers and ensure you have plenty of water and sun protection. Summer temperatures can soar above 100°F, and elevations range from 4,875 to 6,825 feet. Check local weather and fire conditions before your visit and be prepared for sudden changes.