Ute

The Utes live on two separate reservations in southwestern Colorado -- the Southern Ute and the Ute Mountain Ute.

The Southern Utes have built a modern cultural and tourism center at Ignacio, Colorado, their tribal capital. Fishing, hunting and camping is permitted on their reservation. Southern Utes are known for their delicate beadwork and leather artistry which can be found at the Museum Gift Shop, (970) 563-4649.

Ancient artwork, artifacts and photographs are exhibited at the Cultural Center and Museum (970) 563-9583. Southern Ute ceremonies that are open to visitors include the social "Bear Dance" celebrated in May, and the more spiritual "Sun Dance" held in August. The Sky Ute Lodge and Casino offers accommodations and gaming including slot and keno machines, black- jack and poker. The lodge is located just north of Ignacio on Hwy. 172.

For casino and lodge information: (970) 563-0030, (800) 876-7017. For cultural information: (970) 563-9583 Web: www.southern-ute.nsn.us.

Centered around their tribal capital, Towaoc, the Ute Mountain Utes have created a sound economy based on tourism and natural resources. The Ute Mountain Tribal Park offers a special outdoor primitive experience featuring several hundred archaeological sites, which are part of the Mesa Verde ruins. Day tours, short tours, mountain bike tours, backpacking, and camping are available; however, visitors must bring water and food. Tours are also available to the Ute Mountain Pottery Plant, 15 miles south of Cortez, Colorado, at the junction of Hwy. 160/491.

The tribe celebrates its annual "Bear Dance" in June, and visitors are welcome to attend. Gaming is available on the reservation at the Ute Mountain Casino, located at #3 Weeminuche Dr., Towaoc, CO, 81334. Open seven days a week, 8 am - 4 am, the casino offers slot machines, blackjack and poker.

For casino information: (800) 258-8007 www.utemountaincasino.com

For Tribal Park information: (800) 847-5485 or (972) 565-3751 ext. 330