Chimney Rock Interpretive Association
The Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer association with headquarters in Pagosa Springs, CO. CRIA runs the daily operations and interpretive program at Chimney Rock National Monument under a Participating Agreement with the USDA Forest Service/San Juan National Forest.
CRIA’s volunteers support the mission to preserve and protect the Monument while educating the public. CRIA promotes public education, interpretation, and stewardship of culture and history through guided tours and special events of the Chimney Rock National historic site. CRIA receives no government funding and depends on tour fees, donations and grants to fund the interpretive program. Volunteers reach out to the community through free programs for school children and bi-monthly lecture series and social hour open to the public at the Ecoluxe Building at The Springs Resort and Spa at 165 Hot Springs Blvd in Pagosa Springs.
Programs at the Monument are presented by trained volunteers. In addition to a 2-day training session each Spring, volunteers receive a comprehensive training manual and on-the-job continuous training.
Chimney Rock Interpretive Association Mission Statement
CRIA, a nonprofit organization, is devoted to providing visitors with a meaningful, enjoyable educational experience through interpretive tours of ancestral Puebloan sites and special programs and to the long- term preservation of Chimney Rock National Monument and other culturally significant public lands.
VIEW OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Daily Tour Guides
Lead guided interpretive tours of Chimney Rock's developed trails.One or Two Days a Week
Tour guides are responsible for providing an accurate interpretation of the area’s archaeology, natural history, ethnology, and history.Visitor Cabin Hosts
Welcome visitors, answer questions, and describe tour options.Work as a Team
Hosts explain tour details, special programs and events to visitors. They are also familiar with the archaeological exhibits and educational items for sale in the Visitor Cabin.Mesa Host
Provide a crucial point of contact for visitors.Monitor the Mesa Village Trail.
Direct parking, distribute audio devices for the Mesa Village Audio Tour and monitor visitor safety.
Join Maintenance Team
Ensure a safe environment for staff and visitors and improve facilitiy.Regular maintenance & special projects.
Have fun while helping us with trail maintenance, noxious weed abatement, minor repairs, and special project work.Monthly Programs & Special Events
Be a part of our popular archaeoastronomy programs and annual eventsBE A PART OF THE TEAM
Light the trail for the Full Moon . Assist with interactive activities at Life at Chimney Rock and more!