Excursions
A choice of two four-hour excursions is available to delegates and their companions on the afternoon of June 3. The cost per person is $125. This price covers transportation, light snacks, and guide services including tips. Participation is by advance reservation.
Tour Option #1, Pecos Ruins
Set at the southernmost end of the Rocky Mountains, Pecos Pueblo was once a major trade center for the indigenous people. It was described by Spaniards, who first encountered the Pueblo Indians around 1540, as an impressive fortress. Today, visitors can view the Pueblo ruins as well as the remains of a Spanish Mission Church, and learn about the culture and history of the Native Americans and the Spanish settlers and missionaries who influenced the New World. The 4 hour excursion to Pecos Ruins includes an easy walk at the main site as well as a brief tour of the surrounding area.
Tour Option #2, Tsankawi
Part of the renowned Bandelier National Monument, the ruins at Tsankawi are more remote and offer an untouched view of ruins that sit at the top of a mesa, with 360 degree views of stunning canyons and mountains. Visitors can walk the 1.25 mile loop and view cliff dwellings as well as petroglyphs. The trail at Tsankawi is slightly more rugged (no steps or stairs) and there are two ladders that visitors will have to utilize to access the site. The Pueblo at Tsankawi was inhabited around 1400 to 1500 AD, and it is believed the people moved closer to the Rio Grande River after a period of drought. The tour will cover the history of the Tewa speaking Puebloans and also take visitors to the White Rock Overlook with spectacular views of the Rio Grande River.