Exploring the Mesa Top Loop Road In Mesa Verde National Park
The 6-mile Mesa Top Loop in Mesa Verde National Park offers a journey through 700 years of Ancestral Pueblo history and is open daily from 8 am to sunset.
This scenic drive features short, paved trails leading to eleven archaeological sites, where you can explore the remains of ancient pithouses, pueblos, and masonry villages.
From various overlooks, enjoy views of cliff dwellings nestled in alcoves and take in the park’s unique landscape.
As you travel along the loop, you’ll see the evolution of Ancestral Pueblo architecture and housing.
For the first 600 years, these early inhabitants lived on the mesa top before transitioning to the iconic cliff dwellings.
Highlights include views of Sun Point, Navajo Canyon, Cliff Palace, and Square Tower House.
Guided tours of Cliff Palace and Square Tower House are also available and highly recommended.
Numerous pithouses and pueblo ruins are visible along the route, including the Fire Temple, New Fire House, Oak Tree House, Sun Point Pueblo, and Sun Temple.
Informational signs at each stop provide insights into the area’s rich history.
The Mesa Top Loop Road is an excellent way to discover the history and architecture of the people who once called Mesa Verde home.
The entire loop can be explored in under an hour and is a must-see during your visit.
For a more immersive experience download the audio tour, A Pueblo Perpective on Mesa Verde, here and listen along in your car or on your phone as you explore.
