We were given lots of information by a lovely chap who obviously took great pleasure in being helpful, thanks!
Left with so much information we decided we need to visit Cortez again! Unbelievable how many exciting places there are in the area.
Take the time to stop in to the Welcome Centre in Cortez! We had such a friendly and knowledgeable advisor that helped us with the whole region and not just the one or two places we came to see. Signage to get here is challenging but worth asking directions to.
The traveler "counselors" vary in their knowledge and attitudes but if you ask the right questions, you can get answers. Can't expect them to know everything about all the many Indian ruins and trails so they do a decent job.
Basically I just needed info on Mesa Verde. Very friendly staff who took time to give me a lot of information on what to do around and even in Arizona and Utah States! I left with lots of documentation.
On our vacation to see the national parks in the Colorado and Utah areas, we stopped in the Colorado Welcome Center in Cortez. The employees there were very helpful in planning our ranger-led tours in Mesa Verde, in obtaining our tickets for the tours, and of printed guides. There is also a lot of printed material to see for the area.
I was looking for a local phone book and discovered so much more. I was astounded by all the area information and great service. Clean restrooms as well!
This place has a big beautiful park surrounding it with picnic tables, lovely lawns, big shade trees and a playground. Since it's perfect for enjoying a picnic lunch on our way north from AZ, we've stopped here several times. However, we have never been able to enjoy our meals here in peace. Minutes after we arrive, one or more panhandlers materialize out of thin air, help themselves to a seat right next to us and proceed to intimidate us. It took us awhile, but we've finally learned that it's just not safe to stop here.
We arrived the day after Thanksgiving and the people we met inside were bursting with knowledge, smiles and proud to tell what the area had to offer. They bent over backwards to help guide us into the activities that suited us.They were honest in their evaluations of places and helped us get the most out of our travels. I know the employees of the welcome center are supposed to help others, but these people were energetic and they enjoyed what they were doing. Thanks a million for your help.
A very well-supplied and friendly staff at this welcome center. It was definitely worth stopping by!