The Essential Guide to Mesa Verde National Park

"A UNESCO World Heritage site preserving some of North America's oldest human dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people more than 700 years ago; the park showcases exceptionally well-preserved cliff dwellings, ceremonial kivas, irrigation features and deep cultural ties to 26 affiliated tribes. Visitors can hike, drive scenic routes, join ranger-guided cliff dwelling tours (May–October; must be booked up to 14 days in advance), or enjoy outstanding night skies as an International Dark Sky Park. The park is open year-round with seven-day vehicle passes ($20 low season, $30 high season); many services and facilities close in winter, the park is cashless, and fuel is scarce inside, so plan accordingly. Guests are asked to treat ancestral sites with respect by not touching walls or removing artifacts." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines