Mesa Verde National Park, established in 1906, was the first and still is, the only cultural National Park. It is located in the Four Corners Region, which has one of the highest concentrations of archeological sites in the United States. Approximately 600,000 people visit Mesa Verde, Spanish for “green table” each year, to learn about and explore the archeological sites which “Pre-Columbian Indians” built on the mesa tops and in the alcoves of the canyons. There are over four thousand known archeological sites in Mesa Verde National Cliff dwellings found in Mesa Verde National Park as shown on the MVNP website. Approximately 600 of these are cliff dwellings. In order to preserve the ruins, visitors are limited to certain areas and must be accompanied by park rangers whenever entering these cliff dwellings.
There are many things to do in the Park such as hiking to and viewing geologic features, exploring archeological sites, ranger programs, plant and wildlife observation, visiting the cliff dwellings and lots more. And don’t forget to stop by the Chapin Mesa Museum and take the Mesa Top Loop Drive.
When visiting the Mesa Verde area, the camera is a must. The landscape is very unique and is quite extraordinary. The history is also extremely interesting. This is a place you won’t soon forget. Visit the Mesa Verde National Park website for more information.
Enjoy your camping and hiking adventures!