Discover the spooky stories and historic secrets of Cortez on the Wild West Ghost Tour. This private guided experience offers a thrilling glimpse into the area's frontier past with eerie tales and scenic evening explorations.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; moderate walking involved
Wildlife
History
Cortez was once a bustling mining town with numerous ghost stories linked to its colorful history, many of which are shared during this tour.
Conservation
The tour promotes respect for historic sites and encourages visitors to leave no trace, helping preserve Cortez’s heritage for future generations.
Cortez Tours
Discover the spooky stories and historic secrets of Cortez on the Wild West Ghost Tour. This private guided experience offers a thrilling glimpse into the area's frontier past with eerie tales and scenic evening explorations.
About Cortez Tours: Cortez Tours is a locally owned tour operator based in Cortez, Colorado, offering guided experiences that highlight the natural, cultural, and agricultural attractions of southwest Colorado. The company operates four signature trips: the Mesa Verde Sunrise Tour, a guided 2-mile walk through Hawkins Nature Preserve with sunrise views, local coffee, and pastries; the Wild West Ghost Tour, a 1.5-hour evening walk through downtown Cortez with stories of outlaws and local lore; the Lavender Farm & Vineyard Tour, a 45-minute visit to a family-run lavender farm with sustainable practices and picnic opportunities; and the Cortez Art & Mural Tour, a 2-hour walking tour featuring sixteen murals and five galleries with a taster at the Zu Gallery. Each experience is designed to be family-friendly and dog-friendly where noted, and to provide accessible, interpretive storytelling by local guides familiar with Mesa Verde history and regional agriculture. Tours emphasize small-group engagement, responsible tourism practices, and support for local farms, galleries, and businesses. Cortez Tours uses established routes and clear meeting points in Cortez for easy access, and provides specific trip details such as distance and duration to help guests plan. With a focus on authentic, place-based experiences in and around Cortez, Cortez Tours aims to connect visitors to landscape, history, and community while promoting sustainable tourism in southwest Colorado.
Tour amenities include local coffee and pastries on the Sunrise Tour, lavender lemonade at the Lavender Farm, and a complimentary taster at the Zu Gallery during the Art & Mural Tour seasonally.
Tours Offered
4
Guided experiences across Cortez
Typical Durations
45–120 min
Short walks to two-hour tours
Family & Pets
All ages & dogs welcome
Kid- and dog-friendly tours
Based In
Cortez, Colorado
Local operation near Mesa Verde
Reserve a spot on a guided tour in Cortez, Colorado — limited small-group availability for sunrise, ghost, farm, and art experiences.
Dress in layers
Evening temperatures can drop quickly; wear layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Bring a flashlight
A small flashlight will help illuminate dark streets and enhance the spooky atmosphere.
Wear sturdy shoes
Walking on uneven historic paths requires comfortable, supportive footwear.
Respect the history
Listen carefully and follow guides’ instructions to preserve the integrity of the sites visited.
Warm clothing
Layered clothing helps keep comfortable during evening temperatures.
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Flashlight
Helpful for illuminating dark pathways and enhancing the spooky atmosphere.
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Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is needed for walking on uneven historic sites.
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Camera or smartphone
Capture the atmospheric sights and stories of the tour.
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