Mesa Verde National Park, located in Colorado’s Montezuma County, is famed as the largest archaeological preserve in the United States. With over 5000 ancient sites and 600 cliff dwellings, the park provides an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who inhabited the region for several centuries.

History

Mesa Verde, translated as “Green Table,” was home to the Ancestral Pueblo people from AD 600 to 1300. Abounding with ancient dwellings and fascinating artifacts, the park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 and continues to be a key site for archaeological research.

How to Get There

The nearest airports to Mesa Verde National Park are Cortez Municipal Airport located about 16 miles away and Durango-La Plata County Airport located around 56 miles away. From either of these, one may rent a car or take a shuttle service.

List of Attractions

• Cliff Palace
• Balcony House
• Mesa Top Loop Drive
• Petroglyph Point Trail
• Spruce Tree House

Ticket Information

The entry fee for Mesa Verde National Park is $25 for private vehicles during the peak season (May 1 – October 31) and $20 during the off-peak season. Tickets for ranger-guided tours to Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House are sold separately at $6 per person.

Tips for Visiting

1. Start your visit at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center for an introduction to the park.
2. Wear appropriate footwear suitable for rugged terrain and steep gradients.
3. Most archeological sites are at high elevations. Be prepared for dramatic weather changes.
4. Plan your visit ahead since many tours and activities need to be reserved in advance.