Cortez - Montezuma Co., CO 81321
Cortez, the archaeological center of America, is the largest gateway community to Mesa Verde National Park. The Navajos called Cortez Tsaya-toh, meaning "rock water." The spring that once provided water for Navajo sheep also attracted ranchers to the area, then known as Mitchell Springs. The name of the town was changed when Cortez was founded in 1886 and moved a short distance north to the present day town site. Ranching and farming became the economic mainstay of Cortez, and the town also became a major trading center for Native Americans. With the establishment of Mesa Verde National Park in 1906, Cortez also became a tourism community. Points of Interest: Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, Anasazi Heritage Center, Ute Tribal Park, Crow Canyon Archeological Center, Cortez Cultural Center, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Trail of the Ancients Scenic By-way. Annual Events: Indian Dances, Cortez Center, mid-May - Labor Day; Ute Mountain Rodeo, Arts & Crafts Fiesta in June; Farmer's Market June-Nov.; Montezuma County Fair in Aug.; Colorfest Arts & Crafts in Sept.; Indian Summer Run in Oct.; Parade of Lights in Dec.
Hotel & Motel Rooms: 921 units in 15 properties
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