[FULL GUIDE] 50 Must-Do Experiences at Mesa Verde National Park

Key Takeaways:

• Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cliff dwellings and rich archaeological history.
• The park offers a wide range of activities, from hiking to exploring ancient ruins, making it perfect for history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.
• With its breathtaking views and fascinating cultural sites, Mesa Verde provides an unforgettable journey into the past.

Mesa Verde National Park, located in Colorado, is home to some of the most remarkable archaeological sites in North America. The park is best known for its well-preserved cliff dwellings, which were built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago. These ancient ruins are a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who once called this place home. Visitors to Mesa Verde can explore these cliff dwellings, hike scenic trails, and learn about the region’s cultural history. With its rich history, stunning views, and abundance of wildlife, Mesa Verde National Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, nature, or adventure.

50 Things to Do at Mesa Verde National Park:

#1 Explore Cliff Palace:
Visit the iconic Cliff Palace, one of Mesa Verde’s most famous cliff dwellings, offering a glimpse into ancient life.

#2 Hike the Spruce Tree House Trail:
This short trail leads to the well-preserved Spruce Tree House, offering a fascinating look at cliff dwellings.

#3 Visit the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum:
Learn about the park’s history and the Ancestral Puebloans’ culture at this informative museum.

#4 Take the Balcony House Tour:
Embark on a guided tour of Balcony House, known for its cliffside location and steep climb.

#5 Go on a Ranger-led Tour:
Join a ranger-led tour to dive deeper into the history, archaeology, and natural features of the park.

#6 Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail:
Explore this moderate trail that leads to ancient petroglyphs carved by the Ancestral Puebloans.

#7 Visit the Long House:
Tour the Long House, one of the largest cliff dwellings in the park, featuring over 150 rooms.

#8 Go Stargazing at the Far View Sites:
Mesa Verde’s dark skies make it perfect for stargazing, with clear views of constellations and celestial events.

#9 Take a Scenic Drive on the Mesa Top Loop:
This 6-mile loop offers access to several cliff dwellings and overlooks, providing stunning views of the park.

#10 Hike the Morefield Loop Trail:
Hike through the park’s more remote areas on the Morefield Loop Trail, offering unique perspectives of the landscape.

#11 Visit the Step House:
Explore the Step House, a cliff dwelling featuring fascinating architecture and ancient artifacts.

#12 Explore the Wetherill Mesa:
Discover the Wetherill Mesa area, home to several archaeological sites and cliff dwellings not as crowded as other parts of the park.

#13 Go Camping at Morefield Campground:
Set up camp at Morefield Campground, a prime location for exploring Mesa Verde and its natural beauty.

#14 Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Cliff Palace:
Experience Cliff Palace on your own, using the park’s informative self-guided tour brochures.

#15 Visit the Square Tower House:
Explore Square Tower House, one of the most architecturally unique dwellings in the park, offering a glimpse into ancient Puebloan life.

#16 Explore the Gunny Loop Trail:
Trek the Gunny Loop Trail, a moderate trail offering a mix of archaeological sites and scenic views.

#17 Watch the Sunset from the Sun Temple Overlook:
End your day with a stunning sunset at the Sun Temple Overlook, providing a panoramic view of the park.

#18 Take a Guided Hike to the Cliff Dwellings:
Join an expert guide to hike through the park’s trails and explore its hidden cliff dwellings.

#19 Tour the Far View Sites:
Visit the Far View Sites to explore ancient structures, including a large pueblo complex built by the Ancestral Puebloans.

#20 Take a Photography Tour:
Join a photography tour to capture the park’s incredible landscapes and ancient ruins.

#21 Go Birdwatching in the Park:
Mesa Verde is home to diverse bird species, making it an excellent location for birdwatching.

#22 Visit the Spruce Tree House:
See the well-preserved Spruce Tree House, one of the park’s cliff dwellings that offers fascinating insights into Ancestral Puebloan life.

#23 Hike the Prater Ridge Trail:
This trail offers views of the surrounding landscape and ancient sites, perfect for a moderately challenging hike.

#24 Explore the Cedar Tree Tower:
Climb to the Cedar Tree Tower for a fantastic vantage point and beautiful views of the surrounding area.

#25 Go on a Cave Tour:
Take a tour of the caves around the park to discover more about the geological history of the region.

#26 Visit the Mancos Valley Overlook:
Stop at the Mancos Valley Overlook for panoramic views of the valley and distant mountain ranges.

#27 Join a Junior Ranger Program:
Bring the kids along for the Junior Ranger program, where they can learn about the park’s history and wildlife.

#28 Explore the Far View Sites Archaeological Area:
This area provides access to various archaeological sites and is great for history enthusiasts.

#29 Take the Navajo Trail:
This moderate trail leads you through scenic areas of the park, with beautiful views and access to cliff dwellings.

#30 Hike the Yucca House Trail:
Enjoy this easy trail that leads to one of Mesa Verde’s lesser-known, but still impressive, archaeological sites.

#31 Take the Cliff Dwellings Tour:
Take a guided tour to learn more about the construction and history of the cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde.

#32 Visit the Terrace Ruin:
Explore the Terrace Ruin, a partially restored cliff dwelling, offering a closer look at Ancestral Puebloan life.

#33 Go on a Geology Tour:
Join a guided geology tour to learn about the park’s volcanic origins and how the landscape has evolved.

#34 Take a Sunset Drive on the Mesa Verde Scenic Byway:
Drive the scenic byway for incredible sunset views over the canyons and mesas of the park.

#35 Visit the Montezuma Valley Overlook:
Enjoy breathtaking views from the Montezuma Valley Overlook, perfect for photos and reflection.

#36 Hike the Kachina Bridge Trail:
Trek the Kachina Bridge Trail, which offers views of natural bridges and a chance to spot wildlife.

#37 Go on a Photography Hike:
Join a hike specifically designed for photographers to capture the stunning views and ancient ruins.

#38 Visit the Ancestral Puebloans’ Cliff Dwellings:
Explore the cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans, including homes, storage rooms, and ceremonial spaces.

#39 Take the Navajo Loop:
The Navajo Loop is a short but rewarding hike through some of the most iconic spots in the park.

#40 Visit the Cedar Mesa Overlook:
Stop by the Cedar Mesa Overlook to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert and cliff dwellings.

#41 Explore the Montezuma Valley:
Explore this stunning area with rich cultural significance, perfect for history buffs and outdoor lovers alike.

#42 Attend a Festival at the Park:
Join in the celebration during one of Mesa Verde’s annual festivals, featuring music, food, and cultural activities.

#43 Go Hiking on the Cliffside Loop:
Take a hike along the Cliffside Loop to see breathtaking views of the cliff dwellings and the canyon.

#44 Visit the Far View Ruins:
Explore the ruins of the Far View Sites, offering a window into the daily lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.

#45 Join a Solstice Celebration:
Participate in the park’s annual solstice celebrations, with special programs and events to mark the changing of the seasons.

#46 Visit the Cliff Palace Overlook:
This overlook provides a great vantage point for viewing the Cliff Palace, one of Mesa Verde’s most iconic dwellings.

#47 Take a Scenic Hike through the Backcountry:
Head off the beaten path on a backcountry hike to discover hidden gems and scenic vistas.

#48 Go Horseback Riding on the Park’s Trails:
Explore the park’s scenic landscapes on horseback, enjoying a peaceful and unique perspective.

#49 Hike the Point Lookout Trail:
Hike to the Point Lookout for panoramic views of the park’s archaeological sites and the surrounding wilderness.

#50 Relax at the Cliffside Campground:
Set up camp at the Cliffside Campground for easy access to trails and breathtaking views of the park.

For an unforgettable adventure at Mesa Verde National Park, use PlanMyWeekend.ai to create the perfect itinerary and make the most of your visit!

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai