Mesa Verde & Beyond!

The Four Corners area is a true window to history. In fact, we have the rare ability to see the lifestyles of the earliest inhabitants in the area. The Anasazi, which means “Ancient Ones” first lived in the area around from around AD 600 to AD 1300. Then, they mysteriously left the area, and the reason has never been clearly identified. Obviously, this even puts perspective on our recent history! It is amazing to see the way they utilized the natural growth and cliff areas for homes, as well as the mesas and seasons to produce the necessary crops and water sources to sustain life.

Mesa Verde National Park is the most well-known and well-traveled in the area, but other places exist to explore the ruins as well. The Mesa Verde area boasts thousands of archaeological sites, and visitors can walk through the ancient community buildings. Many are built in the cliffs. Notably, Cliff Palace and Balcony house are astounding, as they are preserved to display the ancient lifestyles. Guided tours allow visitors to see the lifestyles and customs held by the Anasazi. The views and adventure even going through the ruins is an experience unlike any other. It is so hard to fathom the amount of work and dedication necessary to create these dwellings.

A day trip to Mesa Verde is an all-day experience. Although the drive to the entrance is not far from Durango, allow some time to get to the top, as well. Most visitors like the majority of the day in the park. Hotels and camping are both options inside Mesa Verde as well. Our family has enjoyed visiting Mesa Verde for years. When we first moved back to Durango (over 20 years ago now), we had so many visitors from out of town, we went to Mesa Verde multiple times per summer. I’ve even gone at least once each of the last couple years. There is so much there to see that it never gets old taking a day trip to visit and explore.

Also in the Four Corners area, the Aztec Ruins in Aztec, Ute Mountain Tribal Center, Chaco Canyon, and Canyon de Chelly all offer various sets of ruins to see. Many of these areas feature hiking trails and scenic drives to see the sites. They tend to be less populated, but each area offers unique views and a step back in time.

It is so amazing to explore these areas and feel the sense of history around us. Generations and civilizations of people have enjoyed the Four Corners, and we are so fortunate to be able to get a glimpse into the life they once lived.