Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most fascinating historical sites in the US. Located in southwestern Colorado, this park protects thousands of archaeological sites including hundreds of cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived here for over 700 years.
The cliff dwellings are mind-blowing - entire villages built into the sides of canyon walls. Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America, has more than 150 rooms and housed about 100 people. It's crazy to think these structures were built without modern tools or technology over 800 years ago.
The Ancestral Puebloans (sometimes called Anasazi) moved away from the area around 1300 CE for reasons that aren't entirely clear. Theories include drought, resource depletion, or social pressures. Before leaving, they'd developed sophisticated skills in astronomy, farming, pottery, and architecture.
The park covers 52,000 acres of beautiful high plateau landscape with elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,500 feet. The name Mesa Verde, Spanish for 'green table,' refers to the juniper and pinyon pine forests that cover the area. Beyond the archaeology, the park offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
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Things to do in Mesa Verde National Park
Top things to do in Mesa Verde National Park by www.earthtrekkers.com
Where to stay in Mesa Verde National Park
Best hotels in Mesa Verde National Park:
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Hampton Inn (budget hotel)
The Hampton Inn Mesa Verde/Cortez CO is a great base for visiting Mesa Verde National Park, located just 9 miles from the park's visitor center. It's ideal for those planning day trips to explore the park's ancient cliff dwellings. After a day of hiking, the hotel offers plenty of comfort with cozy beds, an indoor pool for unwinding, and a fitness center for anyone wanting to keep active.
One of the highlights is the free breakfast each morning, which is perfect for fueling up before heading out for more adventures. The rooms are spacious and clean, equipped with useful amenities like microwaves and mini-fridges. Guests also appreciate the friendly, helpful staff and the free parking, making it a convenient and comfortable spot to stay while exploring the stunning Mesa Verde area.
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Holiday Inn Express (medium range hotel)
The Holiday Inn Express near Mesa Verde National Park offers a convenient spot for those wanting to explore the area's cliff dwellings and breathtaking scenery. Just a short drive from the park entrance, it's a great home base for outdoor adventures.
The rooms are comfortable and equipped with everything you need after a day of hiking, including cozy beds, private bathrooms, and TVs for relaxing. You can also take advantage of the indoor pool and fitness center for some extra relaxation or activity. A major perk is the free breakfast buffet each morning, perfect for fueling up before heading out to explore. The staff is friendly and provides helpful tips for exploring Mesa Verde, making it a practical and straightforward choice for your visit.
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