Yucca House National Monument

Things To Do Near Yucca House National Monument

The Yucca House National Monument is largely undeveloped, so you can explore freely and see the ancient walls up close — take care as the site is delicate, and the stones may be unstable. Well-worn walking paths help guide you through the site, but there are no interpretive signs or pamphlets. The nearby town of Cortez has plenty of options for camping, shopping, and dining.

Hiking Trails

• Yucca House National Monument Trails

  Yucca House National Monument has a small network of hiking trails that winds through the ruins, offering exceptional views of the varying sites. The trails are narrow and easy to follow, but they aren't recommended for strollers and wheelchairs. It's helpful to load the National Park Service's Yucca House visitor guide onto your phone in advance; it helps you identify the different structures as many are partially covered by trees and grass.

  Location

  19751 Rd B, Cortez, CO 81321

  Length

  Varies

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Upper House

  As you walk through the gate of the Yucca House National Monument, look for the clump of trees and bushes. Through the branches, you can see the remains of the Upper House. This structure stands about 20 feet tall, giving a glimpse of the Ancestral Puebloan stonework. It's a part of the West Complex. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes; that way, you can walk through the bushes comfortably to see the walls and examine the ancient ruins. 

  Location

  Yucca House National Monument Main Gate

• West Complex

  Look toward Sleeping Ute Mountain as you enter the monument to find the West Complex. It surrounds the Upper House. With more than 600 rooms, this expansive pueblo was the center of life in the Yucca House community. There are also 100 kivas. Today, you can see evidence of low, stabilized stone walls that were reinforced by archaeologists.

  Location

  Yucca House National Monument Main Gate

• Great Kiva and Lower House

  Look to the left after you walk through the gate to see the remains of the Great Kiva and the Lower House. Here, you'll see some of the best-preserved stonework on the entire site. Remains of the walls offer a glimpse at the size of the house, which features a distinctive L-shaped layout.

  Location

  Yucca House National Monument Main Gate

Museums

• Canyons Of The Ancients Visitor Center & Museum

  Learn more about the Native American people who have made their home in southwestern Colorado over the centuries at the Canyons Of The Ancients Visitor Center & Museum. Run by the Bureau of Land Management, this archaeological museum is home to a wide range of artifacts. Well-documented exhibits offer everything from ancient pottery to jewelry, tools, and weapons. Outside the museum, you can see two archaeological sites with artifacts dating back to the 12th century. While you're there, take a walk on the short nature trail.

  Location

  27501 CO-184, Dolores, CO 81323

• Galloping Goose Historical Museum

  If you're interested in trains, don't miss a stop at the Galloping Goose Historical Museum. Located inside a replica of the historic Dolores train depot, this museum is dedicated to the history of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad. Inside, walk through a recreated station agent's office and examine the vintage telegraph machine. Outside, you can climb inside the unusual Galloping Goose No. 5 rail car, which was completely restored in 1997. It's fully operational — check the schedule to see when you can catch a ride.

  Location

  420 Central Ave, Dolores, CO 81323

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Cliffrose on Market

  Cliffrose on Market is a small shop that's packed with fascinating gifts, plants, and decorations for your home. Whether you want windchimes or a new necklace, you'll find it at this friendly store.

  Location

  101 N Market St, Cortez, CO 81321

• Notah Dineh Trading Co.

  Purchase a work of art from local Native American artists at the Notah Dineh Trading Co. It's well-stocked with colorful blankets, beaded jewelry, woven bowls, and more.

  Location

  345 W Main St, Cortez, CO 81321

• Love On a Hanger

  Pick up casual, trendy outfits and comfortable shoes at Love On a Hanger. This small, carefully curated boutique carries a range of dresses, tops, and pants for everyday wear.

  Location

  34 E Main St, Cortez, CO 81321

• The Farm Bistro

  Cute and casual, The Farm Bistro serves hearty comfort foods in a welcoming atmosphere. Many dishes use meats and vegetables from local farmers to ensure maximum freshness. At dinner, make sure to try a craft cocktail like the Rocky Mountain Margarita or the LaPlata Bulldog.

  Location

  34 W Main St, Cortez, CO 81321

• The Pie Maker Bakery

  Stop in for a bagel sandwich and a slice of homemade pie at The Pie Maker Bakery. A favorite among locals and visitors, this laid-back spot specializes in sweet and savory pies, "spudnuts", and nitro coffees. 

  Location

  17 N Harrison St, Cortez, CO 81321

• The Wigglin’ Pig

  The Wigglin’ Pig got its start as a local food truck. Stop into this friendly restaurant for indulgent, delicious meals — start with the Gouda fries, and come hungry for the piglet burger with pork belly and bacon jam or the tasty mac and cheese variations.

  Location

  44 W Main St, Cortez, CO 81321

How To Get To Yucca House National Monument

Getting to Yucca House National Monument is a bit of an adventure — there are no signs, and cellphone service can be spotty. To get there, head south on US-491 from Cortez. After about eight miles, turn right on MC County Road B. Drive about one mile. Soon after you cross the paved MC Road 21, keep an eye out for the next dirt road; turn right, looking for the signs for the Box Bar Ranch. Drive for about 1.4 miles, keeping an eye out for a white house with a red roof. Once you reach the house's driveway, you'll see the gate for the national monument on the left.

Address

19751 Rd B, Cortez, CO 81321

Fee: Entry fee $0

Yucca House National Monument is the rare opportunity to explore an unexcavated Ancestral Puebloan site. It's a fantastic complement to other local sites, including the nearby Mesa Verde National Park. An RV is a great way to enjoy Yucca House and the other natural and historic spots in southwestern Colorado.