Exploring Cedar Tree Tower And The Farming Terrace Trail In Mesa Verde National Park
Cedar Tree Tower is one of several tower sites that have been discovered within Mesa Verde National Park.
Located off Mesa Tops Ruins Road (37.19843, -108.48219), the site features a small parking area with limited space for vehicles.
A brief walk from the roadside brings visitors to the tower and kiva, structures built during the Classic period (A.D. 1100 to 1300).
The exact purpose of the tower-kiva complex remains unknown, though some speculate it may have served a ceremonial function due to its proximity to kivas.
Others believe it could have been part of an ancient communication system.
Along the same road as Cedar Tree Tower, you’ll find the Farming Terrace Trail.
This half-mile loop trail, with about 100 feet of elevation gain, guides hikers through a series of check dams and farming terraces.
Built by the Ancestral Pueblo people over 800 years ago, the Farming Terrace Trail offers visitors insight into how agriculture was practiced at Mesa Verde.
Informational placards at both the tower and trail provide more detailed context.
While Cedar Tree Tower is worth a visit if you have time, it closely resembles other towers and kivas throughout the park.
The Farming Terrace Trail is an easy hike but not particularly thrilling. You might consider walking to the first terrace for a quick look before turning back.
If you’re short on time, this section of the park can easily be skipped without missing much.
