This Underrated Colorado National Park Is An Archaeological Wonder
By Kristin Conard
VACATIONS
Colorado's southwestern corner is home to one of the nation's most impressive archaeological spots — the remarkably well-preserved cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.
The park has nearly 5,000 individual archaeological sites created by Ancestral Puebloans who lived on this land from around A.D. 550 to 1300.
There are overlooks where you can view these structures from above. However, if you want to walk through some of them, you have to sign up for a guided tour.
The ranger-led tours generally run between mid-May and late October, and reservations open two weeks in advance. Avoid waiting to book a tour, as they do fill up fast.
There are a few different cliff dwellings that you can tour at Mesa Verde National Park. Each offers the opportunity to learn more about the Ancestral Puebloan people.
You can choose between several tours, such as the Cliff Palace, Square Tower House, and Balcony House options. Be aware each tour has its own limits on how many can join.