Cities and Towns in Montezuma County, Colorado
Founded on 1889-04-16, Montezuma County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Montezuma County was split from La Plata County. The city of Cortez is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, Montezuma County has a population of 26,175 and area of 2,035.80 square miles (5,273 km²).
List of all cities in Montezuma County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arriola, CO | 81321 | 970 |
| Cortez, CO | 81321 | 970 |
| Dolores, CO | 81323 | 970 |
| Dunton, CO | 81323 | 970 |
| Hovenweep National Monument, CO | 81321 | 970 |
| Lewis, CO | 81327 | 970 |
| Mancos, CO | 81328 | 970 |
| Mesa Verde, CO | 81330 | 970 |
| Mesa Verde National Park, CO | 81330 | 970 |
| Pleasant View, CO | 81331 | 970 |
| Stoner, CO | 81323 | 970 |
| Towaoc, CO | 81334 | 970 |
| Ute Mountain Indian Reservat, CO | 81334 | 970 |
| Yellow Jacket, CO | 81335 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Montezuma County, Colorado
Cortez
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 6.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 8,700 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81321
- Latitude: 37.3489° N
- Longitude: 108.5859° W
City Location and History
Cortez is the county seat and largest city in Montezuma County, located in the southwestern corner of Colorado. The town was founded in 1886, primarily as a base for workers constructing the irrigation system for the Montezuma Valley, which would support the agricultural development of the area. Named after the Spanish Conquistador Hernán Cortés, the town grew rapidly as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural region. Cortez also serves as a gateway to many of the area’s significant archaeological sites, including the nearby Mesa Verde National Park, which is home to ancient cliff dwellings and the ruins of the Ancestral Puebloans. Today, Cortez is known for its blend of cultural heritage, outdoor recreation, and vibrant community life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cortez is served by the Montezuma-Cortez School District RE-1, with Montezuma-Cortez High School being the primary secondary school. The city’s major landmarks include the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument Visitor Center and Museum, which provides insight into the region’s rich archaeological history, and the Cortez Cultural Center, which hosts exhibits, performances, and cultural events celebrating Native American and local heritage. The city is also close to Mesa Verde National Park, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the United States, offering opportunities for hiking, exploration, and learning about the Ancestral Puebloan culture. The Montezuma County Fairgrounds hosts various community events, including the annual Montezuma County Fair. Cortez’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and proximity to natural and cultural landmarks makes it the heart of Montezuma County.
Dolores
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 950 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81323
- Latitude: 37.4744° N
- Longitude: 108.5004° W
City Location and History
Dolores is a small town located in the northern part of Montezuma County, near the Dolores River and just north of McPhee Reservoir. The town was founded in 1900 as a railroad town, serving the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad as it expanded into the area. Dolores, named after the river that runs through it, quickly became a key location for the lumber and agriculture industries. The construction of the McPhee Dam in the 1980s created McPhee Reservoir, which is now one of the largest bodies of water in Colorado, providing irrigation for the region and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Today, Dolores is known for its scenic beauty, access to outdoor activities, and rich history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dolores is served by the Dolores School District RE-4A, with Dolores High School being the main secondary school. The town’s major landmarks include the Anasazi Heritage Center (Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum), which offers exhibits on the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans, as well as access to archaeological sites within the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. McPhee Reservoir is a major attraction, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The nearby San Juan National Forest offers hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing, making Dolores a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s historical roots are also reflected in its charming downtown area, with historic buildings and local shops. Dolores’ combination of historical significance, educational resources, and access to natural beauty makes it a key community in Montezuma County.
Mancos
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81328
- Latitude: 37.3458° N
- Longitude: 108.2898° W
City Location and History
Mancos is a small town located in the eastern part of Montezuma County, near the Mancos River and the base of the La Plata Mountains. The town was founded in 1894 and named after the Mancos River, which itself was named by Spanish explorers. Mancos developed as a ranching and farming community, taking advantage of the fertile valley and the water from the river. The town also served as a gateway to the nearby Mesa Verde National Park, which became a significant draw for tourists in the 20th century. Mancos has a rich cultural history, with deep ties to the local Native American tribes, as well as a strong tradition of Western ranching and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mancos is served by the Mancos School District RE-6, with Mancos High School being the primary secondary school. The town’s major landmarks include the Mancos Opera House, a historic building that has served as a cultural center for the community since the early 1900s, and the Mancos Valley Historical Society Museum, which preserves and exhibits artifacts related to the town’s history. The Mancos State Park, located nearby, offers camping, fishing, and hiking, and serves as a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Mancos is also known for its vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries and studios, as well as the annual Mancos Days celebration, which features parades, games, and local entertainment. Mancos’ combination of cultural heritage, educational resources, and access to outdoor activities makes it an important and vibrant town in Montezuma County.
Towaoc
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81334
- Latitude: 37.1953° N
- Longitude: 108.7256° W
City Location and History
Towaoc is a small community located in the southern part of Montezuma County, near the Ute Mountain, and serves as the capital of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. The town is situated on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation, which was established in 1897. Towaoc has long been the cultural and administrative center for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, one of the oldest continuous residents of the region. The town’s name, “Towaoc,” means “thank you” in the Ute language. Towaoc’s history is deeply intertwined with the Ute people’s struggle to maintain their land, culture, and sovereignty in the face of European colonization and U.S. government policies.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Towaoc is served by the Montezuma-Cortez School District RE-1, with students often attending schools in nearby Cortez. The community’s major landmarks include the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel, which provides economic opportunities and entertainment for the tribe and surrounding region. The Ute Mountain Tribal Park, adjacent to Mesa Verde National Park, offers guided tours of Ancestral Puebloan ruins and petroglyphs, providing a unique cultural and historical experience. The Ute Mountain Ute Museum in Towaoc showcases the history, culture, and artifacts of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. Towaoc’s blend of cultural heritage, educational resources, and natural beauty makes it a unique and significant community in Montezuma County.
Map of Cities in Montezuma County, CO
