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ABOUT US

Helen West, the founder of Cortez Tours, held her first job as a tour guide job as a high school student in Sitka, Alaska. That summer job —and the skills she gained from it — propelled her into a career in education, local government, and final as a small business owner.

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Cortez Tours is founded on all the elements that originalyl enthralled Helen about guiding: that stories have the power to unite and connect people, and that through stories, we can come to a common understanding. Our local guides tell true stories rooted in history and science (we admit, sometimes our stories are a little embellished) and through those stories connect guests with each other and those that came before us. We hope that everyone leaves Cortez Tours with a little more understanding of how we — as individuals — are connected to eachother, history, andf the natural world, and feeling a little more hopeful for the future of humanity. 

Three people walking at Sand Canyon near Cortez, Colorado.

OUR TOURS

Cortez Tours weaves fascinating history, exciting folk lore, and information about southwest Colorado into every walking tour. Tours are offered year-round, and can be crafted to fit any guests accesibility needs. Well-behaved, leashed pets are also welcome to join the adventure!

Mesa Verde Sunrise Tour

$28 per person • 2 hours •Year-round

Embrace the dawn to connect with nature while learning how people have thrived in the southwest for centuries.

Four people watching the sunrise in Cortez, Colorado.

Cortez Wild West Ghost Tour

$25 per person • 1.5 hours • May - November

Unveil the dark secrets of Cortez and discover the stories  of wild west outlaws like Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid.

Image of the Spanish Trail mural in downtown Cortez, Colorado.

OUR GUIDES

Cortez Tours is proud to offer walking tours led by local guides. Our guides highlight their favorite local stories and always have great recommendations on what to do in the Cortez area.

Frequently asked questions

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