What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Phil's World Mountain Bike Trail
The Phil's World mountain biking trail system is located within the Cortez SRMA BLM site. With numerous trails ranging from beginner to intermediate in difficulty, the trail system features both classic single-track riding and more challenging slickrock riding. Many of the biking trails are mildly technical with extended uphill areas.
Length: 18.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Sand Canyon Trail
The Sand Canyon Trail can be found near the Canyons of The Ancients National Monument to the west of the Cortez SRMA. As you may have guessed, the heavily trafficked trail takes hikers on a trek through sandy areas and canyons. During the hike, you'll experience gorgeous views and numerous beautiful wildflowers. The trail is best used between March and October.
Length: 12.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Ruins Road Loop
Located near the Hawkins Preserve, the Ruins Road Loop is a quiet, peaceful loop trail suitable for hikers of all skill levels. You'll want to be careful not to get lost since the trail isn't clearly marked in some areas.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
If you're hoping to do some fishing or boating in the area, you'll be in luck. The McPhee Reservoir is located less than ten miles north of the Cortez SRMA. The sizable lake is regarded as an excellent fishery, with numerous species of both cold and warm water fish inhabiting it. Some of the fish you may catch there include small and largemouth bass, rainbow trout, crappie, northern pike, perch, and kokanee salmon. As for boating on the reservoir, it typically opens on May 1st each year, and the lake features a boat ramp that's open seven days a week. You can also use the calm waters for swimming or water sports.
Climbing
Although rock climbing is prohibited in nearby Mesa Verde National Park, you will find several fantastic climbing routes in San Juan National Forest to the east of the BLM site. Among the breathtaking forested mountains of the area, climbing opportunities of varying difficulty levels are abundant. A few potential climbing routes and trails that you can take on include Chicago Basin to Mount Eolus, the Engineer Mountain Trail, and the Pilot Knob Trail.
Wildlife Viewing
Although you may see a few interesting animals roaming the Cortez SRMA, many of the best nearby wildlife viewing opportunities can be found at Mesa Verde National Park. Among the vast park's many trails and archaeological sites, you'll have a good chance to spot bobcats, coyotes, mule deer, weasels, rabbits, owls, and a variety of snakes and lizards. If you look up through the trees, you'll also observe many types of birds roaming the skies.
Picnicking
The closest picnicking facilities to the BLM site will likely be found at scenic Totten Lake. You can enjoy your lunch while you relax by the water, and when you're finished, you can partake in some water-based recreation or hiking.
