Written by Kyle
We had a gorgeous fall weekend here in the high country of Southern Colorado, and decided to take the motorcycles out from Creede, through Wolf Creek Pass, and over to Chimney Rock National Monument outside of Pagosa Springs, CO before it closed for the season.
Here is a bit of history direct from the Chimney Rock Interpretive Association website:
“This undiscovered gem is an intimate, off-the-beaten-path archaeological site located at the southern edge of the San Juan Mountains in Southwestern Colorado. You’ll walk in the footsteps of the fascinating and enigmatic Ancestral Puebloans of the Chaco Canyon, following primitive pathways that haven’t changed for 1,000 years. Archaeological structures and artifacts, abundant wildlife, and its setting in the breathtaking San Juan National Forest make Chimney Rock a must-see.
Chimney Rock covers seven square miles and preserves 200 ancient homes and ceremonial buildings, some of which have been excavated for viewing and exploration: a Great Kiva, a Pit House, a Multi-Family Dwelling, and a Chacoan-style Great House Pueblo. Chimney Rock is the highest in elevation of all the Chacoan sites, at about 7,000 feet above sea level. From the base, the hike to the top is just a half mile and it’s rewarded with dramatic 360-degree views of Colorado and New Mexico.”
After the short hike to the Great Kiva we spoke with a docent a bit about the history of the dwelling, the construction of, and its relation to others in the area such as Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde. We also took time to watch the Peregrine Falcons and Turkey Vultures fly and dive around the chimney.
You can do both short hikes as well as the visitor center in just a couple hours, and this is a worthwhile stop if you are passing through Southern Colorado!
Ramble Around 
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