Mesa Verde

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : United States of America

Currency : US Dollar

Big Mac Index : 5.15

Travel Safety : Low Risk

Mesa Verde National Park is located in the southwestern United States in Colorado. The park is known for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, which were built in the 12th and 13th centuries. The park covers an area of 52,485 acres and offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, hike through beautiful canyons, and learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Getting to There: The nearest major airport to Mesa Verde National Park is Durango-La Plata County Airport, located about 70 miles from the park. Visitors can also fly into Albuquerque International Sunport, which is about 250 miles from the park, or Denver International Airport, which is about 320 miles away. Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park. Things to See and Do: - Explore the Cliff Palace: This is the largest cliff dwelling in the park, with 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial structures). Visitors can take a ranger-led tour of the site to learn more about the history and construction of the dwelling. - Visit the Long House: This cliff dwelling has over 150 rooms and is the second-largest in the park. Visitors can take a ranger-led tour of the site. - Hike to the Spruce Tree House: This is the third-largest cliff dwelling in the park and can be accessed via a moderate hike. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the site. - Take a scenic drive: The park has several scenic drives that offer great views of the surrounding canyons and cliffs. - Go on a ranger-led hike: Park rangers lead a variety of hikes through the park, including guided tours of the cliff dwellings, hikes to overlooks, and nature walks. Getting Around: The park has a scenic drive that takes visitors through the park and past the cliff dwellings. Visitors can also take a shuttle bus that runs from the park entrance to the cliff dwellings. When to Visit: Mesa Verde National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Tips: - Make sure to bring water and snacks as there are limited food and drink options in the park - Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking - Be prepared for changing weather as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day - Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun - Be aware of the altitude as the park is located at an elevation of over 7,000 feet. This can cause altitude sickness in some visitors. Overall, Mesa Verde National Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, and the natural beauty of the American Southwest. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloan people, explore ancient ruins, and hike through beautiful canyons. With its well-preserved cliff dwellings and stunning landscape, it's a great destination for families, history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Photo - By Michael Adams - Wikipedia