Know Before You Go

  • The entry gate opens at 9:00 am and closes at 4:30 pm.  The entry gate is only open for short periods of time before and after special programs.

  • Last opportunity to access the ancient structures is 3:30 pm daily.  There is a minimum of a half-hour drive round trip to where the tours take place and you will want to allow yourself at least 45 minutes to an hour for each Self-Guided Tour.  At 4:00pm, all vehicles must exit the upper parking lot and start driving to the entry gate which closes at 4:30pm.

  • Please be aware that severe weather and/or trail conditions may require that special events be cancelled at the last minute.

  • Pets are not permitted on interpretive trails; only Service Dogs are permitted. Kennels are available at no charge at the Visitor Cabin.

  • There is no shade in the parking lot nor on the trails.

  • Public access to the Great House Pueblo Trail is seasonally restricted beyond the falcon enclosure fence.

  • During the season (May 15 – October 15), only self-guided tours and special programs operated by the Chimney Rock Interpretive Association may use the trail, under authority of the USDA Forest Service special use permit.

  • No oversized vehicle such as RV’s, trailers, or anything being towed is permitted to drive to the upper parking lot where the tours begin. Limited (if any) use of oversized pick-up trucks will be permitted. There is limited parking and space to drive these types of vehicles in the upper parking lot. Please call the site at 970-883-5359 to inquire about shuttle availability.

TOUR PRICING, DISCOUNTS & TIPS

  • The America the Beautiful Annual Pass, which offers discounts for entrance fees at many sites nationwide, does not apply to “Expanded Amenities”, such as the interpretive tours offered here.

  • Active military with I.D. receive 15% off an Audio or Guided Tour.

  • No agency passes are accepted with the exception of the Access Pass and the Interagency Senior Pass (50% off a guided or audio guided tour for the pass holder.)

  • Schools groups are complimentary.  Please call the CRIA office at (970)731-7133 to make reservations.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the outdoors.
  • Bring a hat, wear sunscreen and drink lots of water.
  • Don’t forget you camera!

  • It is against Federal law to destroy, excavate or remove any historic or prehistoric structure, artifact or object of antiquity on the public lands of the United States.