Cliff Dwellings
There is no shortage of cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park. They are everywhere! The majority cannot be visited, only viewed from afar.
One particularly interesting one is Square Tower House. It is named after the Square Tower, the tallest structure in the park at 4 stories. Its not normally accessible to visitors though one of the park employees mentioned having recently visited on a guided tour. (Photo #1, #2)
Spruce Tree House is another notable location. It has a short developed trail leading to it and was formerly open for unguided tours. However, rockfalls from the alcove above in 2015 have resulted in a closure until they can figure out how to make it safe for visitors. There is a great view from the patio behind the Head Ranger's Office! (Photo #3)
Beyond the more notable dwellings, some can be located by reading park signs. Others can be found by simply looking closely at the cliffs for stone walls! They are in all sorts of places, the majority of which have no obvious way to be accessed beyond climbing the cliffs!
Read MoreOne particularly interesting one is Square Tower House. It is named after the Square Tower, the tallest structure in the park at 4 stories. Its not normally accessible to visitors though one of the park employees mentioned having recently visited on a guided tour. (Photo #1, #2)
Spruce Tree House is another notable location. It has a short developed trail leading to it and was formerly open for unguided tours. However, rockfalls from the alcove above in 2015 have resulted in a closure until they can figure out how to make it safe for visitors. There is a great view from the patio behind the Head Ranger's Office! (Photo #3)
Beyond the more notable dwellings, some can be located by reading park signs. Others can be found by simply looking closely at the cliffs for stone walls! They are in all sorts of places, the majority of which have no obvious way to be accessed beyond climbing the cliffs!
