"Basaic Mesa Verde National Park Page" Top 5 Page for this destination Mesa Verde National Park by Basaic

Mesa Verde National Park Travel Guide: 229 reviews and 539 photos

Mesa Verde National Park

There are way more ancient dwellings; cliff dwellings, old puebloes, remains of pit houses, etc than most people think scattered throughout the western part of the United States. I find all of them fascinating and have explored many of them. Mesa Verde is one of the finest examples of ancient dwellings I have seen. The history of these dwellings began around 1400 years ago when a group of these ancient peoples inhabited the area now known as Four Corners (where Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico meet) and decided to build a community in Mesa Verde. This community thrived for over 700 years. Dwellings are situated all throughout the cliffs and canyons in the park.

Square Tower

At 28 feet in height, the 4 story "Square Tower" is the tallest structure in the park. It was once part of a large 80 room structure complete with 7 kivas (sacred ceremonial rooms). Several of the sites are available to explore using self-guided or ranger-guided tours. Hikes range from short and easy to long strenuous hikes.

Chapin Mesa Mueum

Diorama in Museum

A good place to get an overview of the history of the peoples and structures associated with Mesa Verde is the Chapin Mesa Museum located near the Spruce Tree House. They also have an extensive library for those looking to do more in-depth research.

Pros and Cons

In a nutshell:Interesting Glimpse into Prehistory in North America

Last visit to Mesa Verde National Park: Jun 2010
Intro Updated Nov 5, 2011
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Reviews (39)

Pithouse Village Trail - Mesa Verde National Park

Pithouse Village Trail Sports & Outdoors (4)

There are paved trails that lead to the various displays in this area. If I remember correctly they are accessible for... more travel advice

Spruce Canyon Trail - Mesa Verde National Park

Spruce Canyon Trail Sports & Outdoors (4)

The Spruce Canyon Trail is accessed from the Spruce Tree House Trail or from the Chapin Mesa Parking Area. It is a 2.4... more travel advice

Spruce Tree House Trail - Mesa Verde National Park

Spruce Tree House Trail Sports & Outdoors (4)

The Spruce Tree House Trail is short (1/4 mile each way) and paved but has a 100 foot elevation change. There are... more travel advice

Far View Tower and Trail - Mesa Verde National Park

Far View Sites Trail Sports & Outdoors (4)

The Far View Sites Trail is a short 3/4 mile, level, unpaved trail showcasing villages from a few different... more travel advice

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Comments (2)

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SLLiew Sep 16, 2012 at 12:37 PM

Mesa Verde is a UNESCO World Heritage. Thanks for sharing. SL :)
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leics Jan 28, 2012 at 1:15 PM

Yes, definitely my sort of place! Absolutely fascinating... :-)