View of Mesa Verde from Canyon of the
Ancients National Monument
Mesa Verde is famous for the
Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings constructed within its cliff
alcoves. A trip to Mesa Verde would not be complete without a visit to one
of these culturally significant sites. The
National Park Service Cliff Dwellings page page explains what sites
are open, and whether they are available on a self-guided or guided-tour
only basis.
Far View Visitor Center
Visiting Cliff Palace, Balcony House, or Long House
To go to Cliff Palace, Balcony House, or Long House
cliff dwelling, you will first need to purchase a tour ticket in
person at the Far View Visitor Center. Ranger-guided tours are
offered seasonally, and provide you with the opportunity to hike into and
experience these
Ancestral Puebloan sites.
View of the Mancos Valley and the
La Plata
Mountains from Mesa Verde