There are many reasons to visit Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. From the grand views to excavations of the fascinating ancient Pueblo homes, there is something to pique any traveler’s interest. If you choose to stay at Far View Lodge or camp in the park, you will be treated to breathtaking nighttime views and, if you are lucky, catch a glimpse of the wild horses roaming nearby. The Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings are a must-see for anyone traveling in or near southwest Colorado.
Background on Mesa Verde
From around 600-1300AD, the Pueblo people inhabited what is now called Mesa Verde. The initial homes were atop the mesa, partially dug into the ground. Eventually, the Pueblo people migrated to the cliffs, where they constructed the famous Mesa Verde cliff dwellings for which the park is known. The archeology of the area is fascinating, with over 5,000 sites. Thus, anyone visiting the national park will have plenty to explore.
Recognizing the value of the area, President Roosevelt acted to protect the land and the archeology in 1906.
Mesa Verde National Park receives over ½ million visitors in a normal year. While always worth the trip, if you can manage a visit off-season, you will feel a bit less crowded.
When you visit Mesa Verde National Park and The Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings
The most obvious attractions to Mesa Verde are the Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings, but the Mesa Top dwelling sites are as fascinating. So, take the time to follow the map of the different sites. Some have been left in the state they were found, others excavated to display amazing aspects of Pueblo life, and some have been rebuilt to show what it was like over 1000 years ago. To help anticipate what you can expect, take a look at the official site.
Here are some of the photos from our trip to Mesa Verde National Park.
