Friday, September 29 2023

Mysteries of Chimney Rock Morning Tour @ Chimney Rock National Monument

Chimney Rock National Monument

Archaeological site
3179 CO-151
Chimney Rock, Colorado


Mysteries of Chimney Rock@ Chimney Rock National Monument

This engaging two-hour tour is led by a trained Chimney Rock Interpretive Association tour guide. The tour will spotlight general topics aimed at interpreting the history and significance of Chimney Rock and the ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area over a thousand years ago. You will learn about the connection of Chimney Rock to the greater Chaco Culture, the significance of the mesa-top Great House, and the day-to-day lives of the inhabitants of Chimney Rock. You will walk both the Mesa Village and Great House Pueblo Trails, learning about the structures along each trail, including their significance and uses. You will be treated to the stunning views of the surrounding countryside and asked to imagine what it must have been like for the people who once called Chimney Rock their home. The tours will be conducted in the quiet off-hours of the Monument. Bring your curiosity, camera, sturdy shoes, and water.

Guests must enter through the Hwy 151 entry gate during the check-in period stated below; the gate will be locked at the end of that time.

Tickets are $16 (ages 13 and up), $8 (ages 5-12), under 5 free, and are considered a non-refundable, non-transferable donation. A booking fee applies to each ticket purchased online or through the call center.

Making a reservation through the call center or website is the only way to guarantee a spot on this tour.

Most programs are at full capacity prior to the event, but we will accommodate walk-ins if space is available. Booking fees do not apply to walk-ins. 

Monday & Friday Mornings:

Check-in 7:45-8am; Program begins 8-10:15am

Wednesday Evenings: Check-in 4:45-5pm; Program begins 5-7:15pm

Standard Amenity Fee:

There is a $20/car or $10/motorcycle standard amenity fee for day use that is good for 5 days from the date of purchase.

– Pay the standard amenity fee in advance here: Recreation.gov
– Download the Recreation.gov Mobile APP - to purchase your pass in advance
– Pay with cash or credit card when you arrive
– Interagency, Access, Senior, Military, and 4th grader park passes will be accepted
   for National Monument access.

There is a separate fee for programs/tours. Reserve in advance. 

Chimney Rock National Monument is day use only. Due to parking limitations at the upper parking lot, customers may occasionally need to wait at the visitor center.

None of the ancient structures are visible from the parking lot.

Special Programs and/or tours may be canceled due to threatening weather. If so, Rain Checks will be available.

There is no water at the site. Bottled water can be purchased at the Gift Shop.

All fees are considered as donations and are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Please wear sturdy shoes, sun protection, and proper clothing for high desert elevation with potential weather changes.

Pets (except for service animals) are not permitted on the interpretive trails. Please do not leave pets in your vehicle or tied outside as there is no shade.  A shaded, unmonitored, kennel is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Kennel locks are available to borrow from the Visitor Center. Dog owners must provide dog water.

There is limited power and phone service available.

Picnic tables and restrooms are available near the Visitor Center.

A handicapped-accessible, self-guided tour features the Great Kiva and a reconstructed pit house.

More information at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/234787. 8am.


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