Who knows what brought you to Mancos Valley website? Perhaps you're looking for scenic beauty beyond description; or may be you seek a place where the people are gracious and you can watch as a cattle drive makes its way down Main Street. Whatever your heart's desire you're likely to find it here, in the Four Corners area of Colorado. Yep, we're special. At 7,000 feet elevation we sit on the cusp of magnificent mountains and forests where you can camp, fish, mountain bike and hike. A few miles to the west is Mesa Verde National Park. Cliff dwelling home of the Ancestral Puebloans, it brims with spiritual wonder and silent mystery. And this is only the beginning. Whatever the season the Mancos River Valley is here to feed the soul. Our ranchers, artists, enviros, writers and business people make sure your visit is complete. For we all have one thing in common: this magnificent place we call home.
Did I say writers? We are home to several authors, including one you've no doubt heard of: Louis L'Amour, King of the Western Novel! His ranch is up the road a bit and many of his books are set in this area. Stop by the Visitors Center and take a gander at the Louis L'Amour Room where his books are on display and for sale.
As for artists, Main Street and Grand Avenue is the confluence of our historic gallery district where you will see stunning southwest art. World class paintings and sculpture are a treat to behold at the Goodnight Trail Gallery; Artisans Coop boasts a grand selection of jewelry, furniture, pottery, fiber art, photography and basketry. Stop by Arborena Gallery and Wine Bar and sit a spell. Raven House Gallery of clay and canvas is a must. And the Beehive, well, you just have to step inside. Merely to stroll the streets of Mancos is fun. We abound with historic houses, including our opera house and high school, which celebrated its centennial this year. It is the oldest operating high school in the state of Colorado. Stop by the Visitor Center for a free walking tour brochure.
What you won't see in the Mancos Valley are big box stores and chains. We like our lives simple; without frazzle. Your breakfast needs will be satisfied by hometown bakeries and cafes with fresh-brewed java and locally- roasted coffee beans. Our lodging facilities are hometown independents with a flare towards personal service. The B&B's and guest ranches outside of town are as picturesque as it gets.
We also have Cottonwood Park, a sweet little wildlands park on the west end of town. There's great birding here as you stroll along our lifeblood, the Mancos River. Boyle Park is located downtown. It's more developed, home to our summer Farmer's Market and many community events. It also has ball fields and a playground for the kids.
It doesn't get any better if you're hankering for a day trip. There's Arches National Park, Moab, Hovenweep National Monument, Canyon of the Ancients, Ute Mountain Tribal Park and the Anasazi Heritage Center to the west; Durango, Silverton and the wild La Plata Mountains to the northeast. Our Visitors Center can point you on your way with appropriate maps and guidebooks.
So what will it be? A peaceful snowshoe through silent ponderosa forests?
A wind-through-your-hair motorcycle cruise? Perhaps a horse or wagon ride into the mountains or an enthralling Native American Indian dance? Or just sit a spell...do nothing but watch the sun go down and breathe in the beauty!
Mancos, Colorado: "where the old West meets the new."
Don't be a stranger...
Mancos Valley Visitors Center
101 E. Bauer St. in the old fire station at the corner of Main Street and Bauer downtown. On Boyle Park!
Mancos, CO 81328
970.533.7434