Mesa Verde National Park

Explore Mesa Verde National Park in southwestern Colorado, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its remarkably preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. Discover a variety of easily accessible trails and overlooks offering panoramic views of the stunning Mancos and Montezuma Valleys. Whether you're seeking a short, universally accessible paved path like the Mancos Valley Overlook or a slightly more challenging hike to the park's highest point on the Park Point Trail, Mesa Verde provides an unforgettable journey through history and breathtaking landscapes. Note that while some trails like the Far View Sites Loop and Cedar Tree Tower Site prohibit dogs, many paved trails throughout the park welcome leashed canine companions, allowing you to share the experience with your furry friend.

Plan your Mesa Verde hiking adventure with safety in mind. Many trails offer little to no shade, so bring plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun. Be aware of potential hazards such as rattlesnakes and steep cliffs, particularly along trails like the Soda Canyon Overlook Trail and the Petroglyph Point Loop Trail. Explore significant Ancestral Puebloan sites like Cliff Palace, Spruce Tree House, and the Sun Temple, gaining insight into the lives and ingenuity of those who called this mesa home for over 700 years. Remember to respect the park's cultural resources by staying on marked trails, leaving no trace, and not touching the ancient petroglyphs, and to clean up after your pets where allowed to maintain the park's pristine environment.