About Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum
The Canyon of the Ancients Visitor Center is the headquarters for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and the premier Archaeological Museum in southwest Colorado. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Visitor Center before heading to the Monument to get information, maps and other publications. The Museum boasts interpretive exhibits, films, a research library, educational resources, and special programs and events interpret the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan and other Native American peoples, as well as the historic Anglo settlers. On its way to the Monument, the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway conveniently passes right by the Visitor Center and Museum. The Old Spanish National Historic Trail, a 19th century Mexican trade route, also runs through this area. For more information, please contact the Canyon of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum by calling 970-882-5600. Our Visitor Center and Museum is closed until further notice. Canyons of the Ancients National Monument remains open to recreational activities and dispersed camping. The Visitor Center has travel and hiking brochures in two outside racks to help you plan your visit to the Monument. The paved, 1/2 mile hiking trail at the museum to Dominguez and Escalante Pueblos remains open for your enjoyment. Stay up to date by following our official Facebook page: Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum @BLMCanyonsoftheAncients and check back in with our websites as conditions change: https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/colorado/canyons-of-the-ancients or https://www.blm.gov/learn/interpretive-centers/CANM-visitor-center-museum.
How to Get There
From Dolores, Colorado, travel west on State Highway 145, then turn west (right) on State Highway 184. Or if you are coming from Cortez, travel north on State Highway 145, then turn west (left) on State Highway 184. Continue on 184 for approximately 1 mile and the Visitor Center will be on your right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum
Heading to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum?
No central reservation system listed for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/254003) for the latest entry policy and availability.
Is Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum accessible?
ADA Accessible pathways, restrooms, and facilities.
How do I get to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum?
From Dolores, Colorado, travel west on State Highway 145, then turn west (right) on State Highway 184. Or if you are coming from Cortez, travel north on State Highway 145, then turn west (left) on State Highway 184. Continue on 184 for approximately 1 mile and the Visitor Center will be on your right.
How do I contact Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum?
You can reach the park at phone: 970-882-5600.
References & Official Resources
