Mesa Verde Sunrise Tours
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Watch the sunrise over the iconic Mesa Verde plateau in Hawkins Nature Preserve as you sip coffee at the canyon edge & learn about the history of southwest Colorado.
Our walk is an easy 2-mile walk over sometimes uneven terrain. Afterward, guests can come back to explore the area on their own! Dogs are welcome, please ask before you bring Fido! As we walk through the preserve you will see & learn about the unique geology & ecology of southwest Colorado.
We will stop at the canyon's edge to watch the sunrise over the La Plata mountains & Mesa Verde NP. A sunrise hike isn't complete without a treat, so I will make sure to bring your choice of coffee, tea or hot chocolate & a locally baked goodie! After the sun rises we will continue our walk through pinyon-juniper woodlands, stopping along the path to learn about various flora & fauna. We will also stop at a 1,000+-year-old ruin and discuss the lives & culture of the people that built Mesa Verde.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
There is a wheelchair accessible trail. Please let tour operator know about accesibility needs at the time of booking.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Coffe, Tea or Hot Chocolate! (Please let us know your preference before your tour.) Coffee is locally roasted from Fahrenheit Coffee in Mancos, CO.
Locally sourced pastries! Please let us know any dietary restrictions and/or allergies in your group. We will do the best to accommodate your needs!
Private transportation
What To Expect
Hawkins Preserve
Hawkins Nature Preserve is a 122-acre preserve on the southern edge of Cortez. Access is FREE & open to the public, but it can be difficult to find the perfect sunrise watching spot if you've never been. After our tour, it's easy to come back to explore the area by yourself. Hawkins is a popular dog-walking area, but please check in with me before your bring your friend! **This tour is NOT in Mesa Verde NP, but has great views of the plateau.
Options
Mesa Verde Sunrise Tours
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Helen the host was...
Misti A,
Jul 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Helen the host was amazing!! The spot for the sunrise was amazing and she brought great treats! She knew so much about the area and the history even my daughter said getting up that early was completely worth it.
A True Gem
julietA4164PC,
Oct 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My tour with Helen was so fun and I learned so much about the area. Being a Colorado native I did not know much about Cortez but it is steeped with history. The place is fascinating. I am need to visit again.
Views for Days!
erikq566,
Oct 3, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The Sunrise tour is a must-do for anyone who wants to get the most beautiful views the region has to offer. Warm up with a cup of coffee and watch the Cortez region during magic hour. I am glad I did.
Great Cortez morning 🌄
Nomad21576633778,
Oct 3, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So worth getting up early!! The tour came with a cuppa coffee, as well as a 'bucket' of local/historical/environmental information enhancing the splended views! A wonderful, informative tour guide👍!!
Best Cortez Adventure.
Global05630105633,
Aug 14, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an amazing experience. The knowledge of soils, plants, and trees made it fascinating.. The views were incredible. The history of the surrounding mountains brought it to life. The coffee and pastry were delicious. The 1000 year old sherds were amazing. This tour is should be on everyone’s itinerary.
Beautiful!
Lisa1098,
Apr 22, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Communication before hand was very through and timely. Easy location to meet. Beautiful place and well worth the early morning! Helen was very knowledgeable and friendly. Provided good coffee with condiments and a pastry treat. I easily recommend this hike!!
From $36.00
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Operated by Cortez Tours