Mancos, Colorado, June 2021
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Southwestern Colorado: A Journey Through History and Nature
Introduction:
Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of southwestern Colorado lies a treasure trove of natural wonders and historical landmarks waiting to be discovered. From the ancient ruins of Homolovi State Park to the majestic beauty of Mesa Verde and Sleeping Ute Mountain, the region offers a diverse array of attractions that beckon travelers to explore its hidden gems. Join us on a journey through Homolovi State Park, Outback RV Park in Mancos, Colorado, and the surrounding area as we uncover the rich tapestry of history and nature that defines this captivating region.
Homolovi State Park: A Window into Ancient Cultures
Our adventure begins at Homolovi State Park, where the remnants of ancient civilizations tell a story of resilience and adaptation. Nestled amidst the desert landscape, the park is home to a wealth of archaeological sites, including ancient pueblo villages and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. As we wander among the ruins, guided by interpretive signs and knowledgeable park rangers, we gain insight into the daily lives and cultural traditions of the Ancestral Puebloans who once called this area home.
Outback RV Park in Mancos, Colorado: A Tranquil Retreat
After exploring Homolovi State Park, we journey to Outback RV Park in Mancos, Colorado, where tranquility awaits amidst the towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains. Situated along the banks of the Mancos River, the park offers spacious RV sites surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. With amenities such as full hookups, picnic areas, and hiking trails, it serves as the perfect base camp for outdoor adventures in the area.
Exploring Mesa Verde: An Ancient City in the Sky
No visit to southwestern Colorado would be complete without exploring Mesa Verde, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved cliff dwellings and ancient pueblo villages. Perched high atop the mesas, these architectural marvels offer a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the region over a thousand years ago. As we hike along the trails and marvel at the intricate stone structures, we're transported back in time to a world where ingenuity and resourcefulness thrived amidst the desert landscape.
Discovering Lowry Pueblo and Totten Reservoir
Continuing our journey, we venture to Lowry Pueblo, a well-preserved archaeological site located near the town of Dolores, Colorado. Here, we explore the ruins of a once-thriving pueblo village, marveling at the ancient kivas and stone walls that dot the landscape. Nearby, Totten Reservoir offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching, providing a tranquil escape amidst the scenic beauty of the Colorado countryside.
Sleeping Ute Mountain: A Sacred Landmark
As we travel through the region, we catch glimpses of Sleeping Ute Mountain, a sacred landmark revered by the Ute and Navajo peoples for its spiritual significance. Legend has it that the mountain resembles a sleeping figure, with its head resting peacefully against the earth. As we gaze upon this majestic peak, we're reminded of the enduring connection between the land and its indigenous inhabitants.
Exploring Hovenweep National Monument and Stoner, Colorado
Our journey culminates with a visit to Hovenweep National Monument, where ancient stone towers and cliff dwellings stand as testaments to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans. As we wander among the ruins, we're struck by the sense of awe and wonder that permeates the air, a reminder of the timeless beauty of the desert landscape. Nearby, the small town of Stoner, Colorado, offers a charming glimpse into the region's rural heritage, with its quaint shops and friendly locals welcoming visitors with open arms.
Conclusion:
Our journey through southwestern Colorado has been a testament to the rich tapestry of history and nature that defines this captivating region. From the ancient ruins of Homolovi State Park to the majestic beauty of Mesa Verde and Sleeping Ute Mountain, each stop along the way has offered new insights and discoveries. As we bid farewell to this land of hidden gems, we carry with us memories that will forever remain etched in our hearts, a reminder of the enduring allure of the American Southwest.
June 3rd
We departed Homolovi State Park this morning and headed out for Outback RV in Mancos CO. We had wonderful weather for the trip and a beautiful drive.
Traveled North to 2nd Mesa on the Hopi reservation and then East. This is most definitely a beautiful part of the reservation. Abounding in multiple deep colors, rock formations that are outstanding as well as canyons and the mesas. If you have not been down this route, it is one for the bucket list.
We arrived at Outback RV and met Bill, the owner of the property. Bill is a kind-hearted man that makes one realize why this is such a great way to live. His park is surrounded by the beauty of Southern Colorado, with a great view of the sleeping Ute mountain. Located close to Mesa Verde National Park, Lowry Pueblo, Hovenweep National Monument, it should provide us with a wonderful base from which to explore the area.
The park is surrounded by BLM and great mountain biking trails and hiking.
June 4
Had a quiet morning getting ready for the day. Cindy made breakfast and we both got showers, filled water jugs and loaded a backpack for the day.
On today's agenda is Hovenweep National Monument. The route that the map brought up, we found ourselves driving through the large alfalfa growing areas. A truly gorgeous drive with the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Arrived at Hovenweep and took the tower loop stroll, gathering in pictures galore which will be shared in a slide show presentation. The Hovenweep area came about in the 1300s, and parts of the structures are still standing after all this time. Truly awe-inspiring quality building. We could learn a lot from these builders to create lasting quality.
Upon leaving Hovenweep we took in Lowry Pueblo, saving ourselves a long journey tomorrow, as we were so close to it today.
Lowry Pueblo is another old structure that dates back to the same era as Hovenweep, with the exception that this feature has a kiva. A very interesting area here around the town of Cortez CO.
From here we went and checked out Mcphee reservoir. The reservoir actually covered up the town of Mcphee when it filled up. The water level was way down when we visited, but it is a large body of water even as low as it was. If visiting the reservoir there is a high outlook above the lake giving an expansive view of the lake as well as the surrounding countryside. Chloe also got a chance to play in the water, which she thoroughly enjoyed.
Returned to the RV at Outback RV, had supper and prepared for tomorrow's travels.
June 5
Today was a laid back and relax a bit day. We went to our destination, Lowry Pueblo, yesterday, so had no big plans for today. After a leisurely morning, we headed out to check out Dolores for the day.
Our first stop in Dolores was the EsoTerra Cider facility. We did a tasting on a flight, and both Cindy and I decided that hard cider is not our thing. Also had a sandwich for lunch from there.
Upon leaving the Cidery we drove up Dolores canyon for about 20 miles, turning around at Stoner CO. Beautiful drive as the road follows the Dolores river, which we stopped at pull offs to take pics and vids.
Came back into Dolores and checked out the free railroad museum, which was neat. It featured the Galloping Goose that was used in the area to deliver mail, cargo and passengers.
We next went to the River Walk park and enjoyed walking along the Dolores river as well as sitting on the park benches and listening to the river flowing below us.
Our last stop of the day was the Dolores Brewery. We each had a mug of their brew, Cindy: a pale ale, myself a Stout. Decent beer, but not the best I have ever drank. Also had a wood fired pizza which was good.
Headed back to home base at Outback RV and relaxed the rest of the evening in preparation of going to Mesa Verde tomorrow. We are thinking of doing the driving loop tomorrow and hikes on Monday.
June 6
MESA VERDE
Headed out to the park around 9am. Upon arrival, Cindy went to the bookstore and got herself some stickers and stamps for her national park book. Then we were off to the races with the massive number of people that were also there to check out this wonder.
We did the drive and stopped at the different pull-outs provided and captured photos and videos of the different sites. The geological features of the park are amazing, with the deep canyons and the vegetation. The views of the surrounding countryside are phenomenal, being able to see the snow capped Rocky Mountains to the east and north, with desert vistas to the west and south.
Having finished our explorations of the park, we stopped at Totten Reservoir on our way back to the RV. Chloe had a good time swimming and splashing, and it was a nice opportunity to just catch our breath after a whirlwind day of massive crowds. The temps during our stay have been in the mid 80's making the days quite pleasant.
June 7
Today was a quiet day. Ran into town and picked up a new compressor and brought the trailer tires all to the same pressure. Had lunch at a Mexican restaurant in Cortez would rate it a3.5 out of 5.
Used our Gas Buddy card at Maverick, which saved us .05 per gal.
Went up and did a short hike in the mountain bike area north of Outback RV and got a few pics of the RV park from the hilltop where we were hiking.
Tomorrow we move on to Bruce Spruce ranch east of Pagosa Springs for 2 nights and relaxation.
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