Amazing Mesa Verde National Park: 7 Best Things To Do + Map
Welcome to Mesa Verde National Park, a stunning destination located in the southwestern corner of Colorado.
Mesa Verde is a unique national park that stands out from the others in Colorado due to its rich cultural history and archaeological significance. In fact, it is the only national park in the United States that is dedicated solely to preserving the works and heritage of a single Native American tribe.
While other national parks in Colorado like the Black Canyon of the Gunnison or the Great Sand Dunes or the Rocky Mountain National Park offer breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Mesa Verde provides you with a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in the region for over 700 years.
The park is home to over 5,000 archaeological sites, including over 600 cliff dwellings, making it one of the most important cultural sites in North America.
Exploring the park’s unique history and stunning natural landscapes is an experience unlike any other. Photos of Mesa Verde National Park don’t do justice to this remarkable historical site!
In this blog post, we’ll be taking a detailed look at Mesa Verde National Park, from its history and culture to its geology and wildlife, so you can make the most of your visit to this incredible destination.
Table of Contents
Mesa Verde: A Journey Through Time
Mesa Verde’s name is derived from the Spanish for “green table,” which refers to the flat-topped mountains and plateaus that dominate the park’s landscape. These stunning formations were formed over millions of years of geologic activity, and they are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.
From high-elevation forests of aspen and fir to desert shrublands and grasslands, Mesa Verde’s natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring.
Exploring the Ancestral Pueblo Culture of Mesa Verde
The Ancestral Pueblo people, also known as the Anasazi (from the Navaho word that means “ancient”), were the first inhabitants of Mesa Verde and the surrounding region. They arrived in the area around 550 CE, and over time they developed a complex and sophisticated culture that thrived for hundreds of years.
The Ancestral Pueblo people were skilled farmers and they relied on the land for their sustenance, growing crops such as corn, beans, and squash. They also hunted and gathered wild plants and animals for food.
These dwellings provided shelter and protection from the elements and predators, and they were also an important part of the Ancestral Pueblo’s spiritual and social life. The dwellings are made of sandstone and mud, and some of them are several stories high. They feature intricate stonework and woodworking, and many of them include kivas, or circular ceremonial rooms.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Ancestral Pueblo culture is their architecture. The cliff dwellings they built into the sides of cliffs and canyons are some of the most impressive and well-preserved in the world.
Some interesting facts about the Ancestral Pueblo people include their sophisticated irrigation systems, which allowed them to grow crops in the arid region, and their intricate pottery, which featured intricate designs and patterns. They were also skilled weavers and created textiles from plant fibers and animal hides.
Despite the impressive nature of their buildings, the Ancestral Pueblo people disappeared from the region around 1300 CE, and the reasons for their departure remain a mystery. Some theories suggest that they were driven away by drought, famine, or conflict with other tribes.
Layout of the Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Mesa Verde National Park is a sprawling park located in the southwestern part of Colorado. The park covers over 52,000 acres, and it is divided into two main sections: the Mesa Top Loop and the Chapin Mesa area.
The Mesa Top Loop is a 6-mile drive that takes visitors through the park’s stunning mesa top landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass by several archaeological sites, including pit houses and surface dwellings. You’ll also be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.
The Chapin Mesa area is home to many of the park’s most famous archaeological sites, including the Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Spruce Tree House. This area is located near the park entrance and features a visitor center, museum, and ranger station.
Here, visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Pueblo people and pick up maps and information about the park’s various hiking trails. You can also visit the park’s museum, which features exhibits on Ancestral Pueblo culture and history.
The 7 Best Things to do in Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park offers a unique experience for you to explore the ancient ruins of the ancestral Puebloan people and witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. With so much to see and do here, it is easy for you to be overwhelmed.
We help you plan for your trip with 7 best things to do in Mesa Verde National Park!
#1: Mesa Verde Ranger Tours: Journey into the Fascinating World of Cliff Dwellings
Exploring Mesa Verde National Park with a guided tour is an excellent way to learn about the park’s history and culture from knowledgeable and experienced guides. The park offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests and activity levels.
To enter all cliff dwellings you must be on a ticketed tour with a ranger. The tour season typically runs from mid-May through late October. It’s also important to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly.
The Cliff Palace and Balcony House are two of the most iconic cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park. Both are fascinating examples of the Ancestral Pueblo people’s ingenuity and resourcefulness. Visitors to Mesa Verde National Park should be sure to add these two incredible sites to their must-visit list.
Cliff Palace
The Cliff Palace is one of the largest and most impressive cliff dwellings in North America.
The Cliff Palace is thought to have been built around the 12th century and was occupied by the Ancestral Pueblo people for over 100 years. The palace features over 150 rooms and 23 kivas (underground ceremonial chambers), and it’s believed to have housed around 100 people at its peak.
The palace’s construction is a testament to the Ancestral Pueblo people’s architectural skills, as the structure is built into the side of a cliff and features intricate stonework and woodworking.
You are able to climb ladders and crawl through narrow passageways to get an up-close look at the site’s remarkable stonework and woodworking.
As the largest cliff dwelling in the park, Cliff Palace is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.
Balcony House
The Balcony House is a smaller cliff dwelling that requires you to climb a 32-foot ladder and crawl through a narrow tunnel to access, adding an extra layer of excitement and adventure to the experience. It’s believed to have been built around the same time as the Cliff Palace and is thought to have housed around 40 people.
The dwelling gets its name from the fact that it features a balcony that offers stunning views of the surrounding canyons and mountains.
This cliff dwelling is one of the most impressive and well-preserved in the park, with a dizzying array of ladders, tunnels, and cliff-edge pathways that will take you on a fascinating journey through time.
#2: Mesa Verde’s Spruce Tree House: Exploring the Ruins at Your Own Pace
This cliff dwelling is one of the most easily accessible in the park, with a short, paved trail which starts at the nearby Spruce Tree House Museum and that leads directly to the site. The dwelling is unique in that it’s the only major cliff dwelling in the park that’s open to the public on a self-guided basis.
Spruce Tree House was built around the 12th century and is believed to have been home to around 60 people. The structure is built into the side of a cliff and features a unique T-shape design that’s not seen in other cliff dwellings in the park.
Once at the dwelling, you can take your time exploring the site and getting an up-close look at the unique architecture and stonework.
The dwelling features over 100 rooms, including kivas, living quarters, and storage rooms. The structure is built into the side of a cliff and features a unique T-shape design that’s not seen in other cliff dwellings in the park.
You can also take a short trail that leads to a nearby overlook, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.
#3: Exploring the Mesa: Mesa Verde’s Top 3 Hikes
The park also offers a range of hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area up close. Here are the best three hikes in the park, each offering a different experience and unique views.
Petroglyph Point Trail
This moderate 2.4-mile roundtrip hike takes you through a lush forest of ponderosa pines and past several ancient petroglyphs.
The trail leads to a scenic overlook with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.
Along the way, hikers will also pass by several alcoves that were once used by the Ancestral Pueblo people for shelter.
Prater Ridge Trail
This difficult 7.2-mile roundtrip hike takes you to the top of Prater Ridge, one of the highest points in the park. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and canyons, as well as a chance to see wildlife such as elk and deer.
Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous climb, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
Soda Canyon Overlook Trail
This easy 1.2-mile roundtrip hike takes you to a scenic overlook with stunning views of Soda Canyon and the surrounding mountains. The trail is relatively flat and easy, making it a great option for families or those looking for a shorter hike.
Along the way, hikers will pass by several Ancestral Pueblo ruins and learn about the history and culture of the people who once called this area home.
Each of these hikes offers a different perspective on the beauty and history of Mesa Verde National Park. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail in the park for you. Just be sure to come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes, as the weather and terrain in the park can be unpredictable.
#4: Unforgettable Scenic Routes: Mesa Verde’s Top 3 Drives
Taking a scenic drive is a great way to explore the park’s stunning natural beauty. Here are the three best scenic drives in the park, each offering unique views and experiences.
Mesa Top Loop Road
This 6-mile loop drive takes you through the mesa top area of the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. Along the way, you’ll pass by several Ancestral Pueblo ruins, including the Square Tower House and Sun Temple.
This scenic drive is perfect for those who want to experience the park’s history and culture while taking in the stunning scenery. Be sure to stop at the Sun Point Overlook for one of the best views in the park.
Wetherill Mesa Road
This scenic drive takes you to the lesser-known Wetherill Mesa area of the park, which offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Along the way, you’ll pass by several Ancestral Pueblo ruins, including the Long House and Step House.
This area of the park is less crowded than other areas, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty in peace and quiet.
Park Point Drive
This short drive takes you to the highest point in the park, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. Along the way, you’ll pass by several overlooks and trailheads, as well as the Park Point Fire Lookout Tower.
This drive is perfect for those who want to see the park from a different perspective and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to these, Far View Drive is a 16-mile drive that takes you through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding canyons and mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass by several overlooks and trailheads, as well as the Far View Lodge, which offers a great place to stop for a bite to eat.
Each of these scenic drives offers a different experience and unique views of Mesa Verde National Park. Whether you’re interested in the park’s history and culture or simply want to take in the stunning natural beauty, there’s a scenic drive for you. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera to capture the unforgettable views.
#5: Stargazing in Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is one of the best places in Colorado for stargazing, and it attracts astronomy enthusiasts from all over the world. It was designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2021.
The park’s remote location, clear skies, and low light pollution make it an ideal location for stargazing. Some of the best view points for stargazing in the park include the Morefield Campground, which offers unobstructed views of the sky, and the Far View Sites Complex, which is located at the top of a mesa and offers 360-degree views of the night sky.
The park also offers ranger-led night sky programs throughout the year, which provide a unique opportunity to learn more about the stars and constellations visible in the park. The Far View Lodge also offers a Night Sky Package, which includes a guided tour of the night sky with an expert astronomer.
To optimize your stargazing experience at Mesa Verde National Park, consider visiting during the summer months when the night skies are clearest. A star chart or planisphere can help you find the constellations and Milky Way.
For the best experience, be sure to bring warm clothing, a blanket, and a flashlight with a red filter. Red light is less likely to disrupt your eyes’ adaptation to the dark and will allow you to see more stars.
Overall, Mesa Verde National Park offers a unique and unforgettable night sky experience. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity and enjoy the breathtaking views of the night sky at Mesa Verde National Park.
#6: Spotting Iconic Wildlife of Mesa Verde National Park
You may find several fascinating animals throughout the park, including the yellow-headed collared lizard, which is commonly found basking in the sun on rocks near the mesa tops.
If you are lucky enough, you may even spot a rattlesnake slithering on the rocks. These venomous snakes are not aggressive and tend to avoid humans. If you do spot one, it is best to give it plenty of space and enjoy the sight from a distance.
The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum area is an excellent spot to see the yellow-headed collared lizard and rattlesnakes.
One of the most iconic birds in Mesa Verde National Park is the peregrine falcon. These birds of prey are known for their incredible speed and agility, and they are a common sight in the park’s towering cliffs and canyons.
You can often spot these majestic birds soaring overhead or perched on rocky outcroppings, and they are a highlight for many bird watchers.
Another unique bird species found in the park is the black-chinned hummingbird, which migrates to the park in the summer to breed. You can spot them hovering around the flowers or feeders in the park’s campground. If you are hoping to see black-chinned hummingbirds, then make your way to the Morefield Campground.
The spotted owl is another exciting species that you may come across in the park. These owls are known for their unique hoot, which can be heard at night in the park.
Lastly, you might catch a glimpse of the western tanager, which is a small and brightly colored bird that is found in the park’s forested areas. Their vibrant red and yellow plumage make them easy to spot, but you may need to keep an eye out for them as they are quite shy.
#7: Camping in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Mesa Verde National Park offers camping amidst stunning natural beauty. The Morefield Campground, located 4 miles from the park entrance, has 267 sites with amenities like showers, laundry, a camp store, and a gas station.
The campground operates from late May to mid-October. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak season.
When camping in Mesa Verde National Park, it’s important to come prepared with appropriate gear and clothing for changing weather conditions. During the summer months, daytime temperatures can soar, while nights can get chilly. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer season.
It’s important to store all food properly to avoid attracting wildlife, especially bears. The park has strict guidelines on food storage, and visitors are required to follow them. Lastly, only designated fire rings are permitted in the campgrounds.
Mesa Verde National Park Map
Mesa Verde National Park: Discovering Ancient Civilizations
Mesa Verde National Park is a truly unique and awe-inspiring destination that offers you a glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient civilizations. From the well-preserved cliff dwellings to the stunning natural scenery, this park is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and the great outdoors.
The park’s cliff dwellings, including Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Spruce Tree House, provide an opportunity to step back in time and learn about the culture and way of life of the ancient Puebloans. The park’s scenic drives and hiking trails offer stunning views of the canyons, mesas, and wildlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
The park’s unique combination of ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind national park experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park!
