The interpretive program at Chimney Rock includes opportunities to see the site in a different light. Evening programs capitalize on the dark sky and share visions the ancient residents studied and enjoyed. Where reservations are required, call 970-731-7133 before May 15 or 970-883-5359 after May 14 to reserve tickets.
Night Sky Archaeoastronomy Programs (2013 Dates)
Enjoy the night sky in a truly dark environment. Your evening begins with a talk at the Visitor Center amphitheater. Topics range from what the ancient people noticed in the night sky to how a telescope helps us see stars and current topics in astronomy. As darkness descends, guests drive to the High Mesa parking lot where volunteer astronomers await with telescopes to provide a closer look at the wonders of the night sky. Each telescope will focus on a different feature of the night sky and the volunteer will change that focus periodically during the two-hour viewing time. This is a reservations-only program, suitable for children. Programs often sell out. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, $7.50 for children 5-16 and are considered a non-refundable donation.
 Full Moon (2013 Dates)
Each month during the summer, volunteers light the trail to the mesa top for a full moon program before the twin spires. A speaker tells the story of the people and their likely relationship with the moon, sun, and stars. Watch the full moon rise over the eastern mountain peaks to the music of a Native American flute. You'll be torn between looking West to see the spectacular sunset or focusing on the eastern mountain range to see the first sliver of moon. On the way to the Great House Pueblo for the program, the trail rises 200 feet in elevation over one third mile (one way). The trail is unimproved and includes a steep, rocky section. Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Water is encouraged, all other food and beverages are banned from the mesa top outside of your vehicle.
This is a reservations-only program, not suitable for children under 12. Programs often sell out. Tickets are $15.00 and are considered a non-refundable donation.
- Early tour option: If you've never been to Chimney Rock National Monument, take this opportunity to learn more about the people who lived is this wondrous site 1,000 years ago. You'll walk the Great Kiva Trail with a tour guide, then climb the Pueblo Trail in time for the Full Moon program. There is an additional $5.00 charge for this option and reservations are required for the limited number of tickets.
- Moon viewing option (2013 Dates): When the sky is dark after select moonrise programs end, return to the upper parking lot to view the full moon through telescopes manned by volunteer astronomers. There is an additional $5.00 charge for this option and reservations are required for the limited number of spaces.
Visions of Chimney Rock (2013 Dates)
This free program takes a particular topic and explores it in depth. Examples are the native foods eaten by the Ancestral Puebloans, their pottery, or their music. This is a kids-friendly, typically hands-on program limited to a small group so reservations are required.
|
|
|
