Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde National Park

In the southwestern corner of Colorado concealed among the mountains and forests, lie the ruin of what was a major Native American settlement eight centuries ago. Its inhabitants, the Matrilineal culture, also known as the Anasazi disappeared suddenly and mysteriously after occupying the neighborhood for 700 years.

If you go:
It's about an hour from Cortez to reach the ruins. No pets are allowed on archaeological sites. An inn and a campground are located on park grounds, both open seasonally. Be sure to check out the amazingly panoramic view from Park Point. There is also an informative museum about the Anasazi on-site.

Phone Numbers:

Visitor Information/Park Headquarters
+1 (970) 529-4465

FAX
+1 (970) 529-4637