MESA VERDE COUNTRY®: Cortez: Archaeological Center of America in Southwest Colorado

Cortez, Colorado

Cortez, the archaeological center of America, is the largest community near Mesa Verde National Park and offers the most services for visitors. The town is nestled between the majestic La Plata Mountains, the brooding Sleeping Ute Mountain, and the sharp-hewn silhouette of Mesa Verde.

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.

Today you may still catch a cattle drive in the spring or fall, or join in the Ute Mountain Rodeo every June. Junior Rodeo events are held at the Fairgrounds throughout the year and the Montezuma County Fair, held each August, is a showcase for the farming and ranching life that is still very much a part of the community. Navajos and Utes continue to come to Cortez as they did in the late 1880s and their artwork may be found in the many quality trading posts throughout Cortez. In the summer Indian Dances and cultural programs are offered six nights a week at the Cortez Cultural Center, and many community events are held throughout the season.

Historic buildings in the downtown area are part of the Crossroads Culture Walk, an interesting way to discover the unique history of the area, and learn how Cortez has been a merging point and trade center for many cultures for well over 2000 years.

Cortez is pleased to host the 2nd annual Montezuma Float Balloon Rally on August 4-6, 2006.

The three-day Rally includes two 6 AM launches, one from the Cortez Recreation Center, and one from the Conquistador Golf Course in Cortez. Balloon glows will be held both Friday and Saturday night and will include art, food and live music.

After enjoying the balloon launches each morning, plan to explore Mesa Verde National Park or other wonderful sites in Mesa Verde Country® during the day. Following is the complete schedule of events:

Friday, August 4

4 PM: Local vendors and Music by Chuck Brown in the north field at the Ute Mountain Casino, 11 miles south of Cortez.
8 - 10 PM: Balloon Glow, Music and Vendors continue.

Saturday, August 5

6 AM: Balloon Launch at the Cortez Recreation Center.
4 PM: Vendors, beer tent, and music by Ralph Dinosaur begin in Cortez near Parque de Vida.
8 PM: Balloon glow and vendors continue. Music ends at 8:30.

Sunday, August 6

6 AM: Balloon launch at Conquistador Golf Course in Cortez.
11 AM: Farewell party for Balloonists at Blondies Pub in Cortez.

Visit the website for the City of Cortez, Colorado at www.cityofcortez.com Visit the website for the Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce at www.cortezchamber.org
Area Map and Driving Directions to Cortez, Colorado	Maps & service

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