CHIMNEY ROCK
-- VISITOR Q & A --
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON HOW TO SEE CHIMNEY ROCK
GENERAL: Chimney Rock Archaeological Area is National Forest land, and therefore open to all visitors, just like any National Forest. However, there are specific restrictions on the use of motor vehicles, entry into the upper mesa/pueblo area, participation in a tour or event hosted by the Chimney Rock Interpretive Association or persons having a permit to enter the site. The following questions and answers explain the rules:
MAY 15 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30
- Can I drive my vehicle in?
Only if you are part of a guided tour, event, or have a special permit. You will be subject to the rules for each of these situations. This applies to all types of motor vehicles (car, truck, ATV, motorcycle, off-road vehicles, snowmobiles, or any form of transportation that is powered by a motor or engine).
- Can I walk, ride a horse, ride a bicycle, snowshoe into the area?
Any visitor can enter the area as long as they are not traveling in a motor vehicle. You are not subject to the rules for CRIA tours or events. You can enter the upper mesa/pueblo site on your own - you do not need to be on a tour or have a permit. If you join a guided tour, you will be subject to the rules for that tour. Horses are NOT allowed on the interpretive trails.
- Do I have to join a tour to see the ruins?
No. All ruins are accessible if you walk or ride a horse or enter without using motor vehicles. You will be able to see the upper mesa/pueblo. Horses are NOT allowed on the interpretive trails.
- Why do I have to pay to enter the National Forest?
The fee is for the tour service and the use of a motor vehicle on the access road. You may enter the National Forest free of charge. All fees and sales income remain local and are devoted to support the interpretive program and site stabilization.
- Can I bring my pets in with me?
If you walk or ride horse back or otherwise enter without using a motor vehicle, you may bring your pets subject to the general restrictions, which apply, to National Forest lands. You are not subject to any restrictions under the interpretive program unless you join a tour or event hosted by the Chimney Rock Interpretive Association.
- Can I enter the area before/after the tours are underway (early morning, evening, night)?
Yes, however, you cannot enter the area in a motor vehicle, and you may not enter the Pueblo Trail without joining a tour. You may enter without using a motor vehicle and visit the Great Kiva Trail and Ridge House site. Dogs and horses and NOT allowed on the interpretive trails. ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK! Natural hazards include mountain lions, bears, rattlesnakes, cliff edges, and lightning.
- Can I camp inside the Archaeological Area?
Yes, but only when entering by non-motorized vehicle travel (foot, bicycle, horse back). Camping is NOT allowed for visitors using motor vehicles. There are no established campgrounds, water or services within the Area. Camping on or within an archaeological site or structure is NOT allowed, due to the possibility of damage to the site or structure. All closure orders must be obeyed.
OCTOBER THROUGH FEBRUARY
GENERAL: Chimney Rock Archaeological Area is used intensively during big-game hunting seasons in the Fall and visitors MUST take proper precautions when entering the Area. Be aware of the big-game rifle season dates.
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Hours of Operation: In-Season May 15 - September 30, Daily 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Guided Walking Tour Schedule: 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.
Location: 3 miles South of Hwy 160 on Hwy 151 (map)
Mailing Address: Chimney Rock Interpretive Program, P.O. Box 1662, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone: (970)883-5359 Visitor's Cabin In-season, (970)731-7133 Leave Message Off-season
E-mail: chimneyrock@chimneyrockco.org
Download Chimney Rock Brochure
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