The Country’s Largest Archeological Preserve

Mesa Verde National Park is a World Heritage Site that protects almost 5,000 archeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in the area from A.D. 600 to 1300. Covering over 50,000 acres, the park is the largest archeological preserve in the U.S. Mesa Verde. It also possesses what is possibly the largest cliff dwelling in North America, known as Cliff Palace.

Take Part in Living History

The area provides an excellent opportunity to visit other archeological sites, investigate the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, sign up for ranger guided tours or embark on self-guided hikes. Our concierge is always available to help you plan your visit.

A Hiker’s Paradise

There are several maintained hiking trails in Mesa Verde National Park that will satisfy everyone from novice to the experienced. One popular hike, the Petroglyph Point Trail, passes ancient petroglyphs. As the only trail in the park to feature petroglyphs, the hike requires registration. However, our concierge would be happy to provide helpful details.

Popular Cliff Dwelling Sites

As the largest known cliff dwelling in North America, Cliff Palace has more than 150 rooms and over 20 areas, known as kivas, that were used for religious rituals. Constructed mainly of sandstone, mortar and wood, Cliff Palace is thought to have housed about 100 people and acted as a gathering place and administrative center. The Mesa Verde Long House was excavated and stabilized between 1959 and 1961 as part of the Wetherill Mesa Archaeological Project. It was built in the 1200s and is the second largest cliff dwelling in the park. Its name is derived from the fact that it occupies the longest cave in Mesa Verde. The medium sized dwelling known as the Balcony House has 40 rooms and was excavated in 1910. The dwelling features tunnels, passageways and well-preserved rooms and plazas for you to explore.

Note: All three of these cliff dwelling sites require guided tours. Feel free to contact our concierge for more information.