Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Colorado.
Mesa Verde National Park, CO
Mesa Verde National Park protects nearly 5,000 archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. The park’s most famous structures, such as Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House, are ancient homes carved into the sandstone cliffs by the Ancestral Puebloans (often called the Anasazi). The park also boasts scenic drives, hiking trails, and overlooks, providing insights into the cultural and natural history of the region.
Renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, it offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Indigenous people who inhabited the region over 700 years ago. Covering more than 52,000 acres, the park is a stunning combination of history, archaeology, and breathtaking natural beauty.
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Conditions and Alerts
As Colorado’s weather conditions change view the Conditions & Alerts before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at Mesa Verde National Park?
- Guided Cliff Dwelling Tours: Visit iconic sites like Cliff Palace, Long House, and Balcony House with knowledgeable guides.
- Hiking: Explore trails like the Petroglyph Point Trail or Prater Ridge Trail, which offer stunning views and cultural landmarks.
- Mesa Top Loop Drive: A scenic 6-mile drive featuring archaeological sites and breathtaking overlooks.
- Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum: Learn about the history, tools, and art of the Ancestral Puebloans.
- Stargazing: The park is a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering incredible views of the night sky.
What is nearby Mesa Verde National Park?
- Durango (45 minutes): A historic town with shopping, dining, and attractions like the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
- Four Corners Monument (1.5 hours): The only place in the U.S. where four states meet.
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument (30 minutes): A vast area with even more ancient ruins and trails.
- Hovenweep National Monument (1 hour): Known for its striking towers and other Puebloan structures.
- Mancos, Colorado (15 minutes): A charming town offering galleries, cafes, and horseback riding opportunities.
When was the Mesa Verde National Park founded?
The park’s history begins with the Ancestral Puebloans, who lived in the area from about 550 to 1300 CE. They initially built homes on the mesa tops before transitioning to the famous cliff dwellings. The reasons for their eventual departure remain debated, with theories ranging from drought to resource depletion.
Mesa Verde became a national park in 1906, thanks to efforts by archaeologist Gustav Nordenskiöld and others to protect its unique cultural heritage. Today, it is celebrated as one of the most significant archaeological preserves in the United States.
When is the best time to visit Mesa Verde?
The best times are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for mild weather and smaller crowds.
Are the cliff dwellings open year-round?
No, most cliff dwelling tours are seasonal, usually from late May to October.
Do I need a reservation for tours?
Yes, reservations are required for guided tours of sites like Cliff Palace and Balcony House.
Can I explore the park without a guide?
Yes, there are several self-guided trails and drives, but certain cliff dwellings require guided access.