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.
​
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.
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!
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
Does the price of a tour include entrance into Mesa Verde National Park?
No. Cortez Tours does not operate in Mesa Verde National Park. All of our tours are located in Cortez, Colorado, about 12 miles from the Mesa Verde National Park entrance.
What time do tours start?
Tour start times vary with the sunrise & sunset, so please check your email for the start time of your tour. In general, sunrise tours start 30-40 minutes before the scheduled sunrise. In the summer that means tours usually start around 5:30 AM.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! (In most cases, yes). Please let Cortez Tours know ahead of the tour so the guides may alert other guests.
How long are tours?
Between 90 to 120 minutes. All Cortez Tours walking tours are between 90 minutes and 2 hours and 1 and 2.5 miles long.
What if I'm running late?
Please text your guide at 970-516-7646, especially if you are running more than 5 minutes late. Cortez Tours cannot wait too long on sunrise tours, since the sun waits for no one!