About Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Plan Your VisitExploring 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 DoVisit 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 pr
