The Balcony House Tour: An Ancient Gem of Mesa Verde National Park
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and intriguing mystery of Mesa Verde National Park on the Balcony House Tour. This marvel of ancestral Puebloan architecture, perched high on the cliffs of southwest Colorado, offers visitors a profound connection with the ancient world. Engage in a thrilling adventure as you traverse ladders and tunnels, gaze upon the enchanting petroglyphs, and stand in awe of the breathtaking views of Montezuma Valley — all while unraveling the secrets of a civilization that thrived here over 800 years ago.
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Location and Accessibility
Mesa Verde National Park is located in Montezuma County, Colorado. The nearest town is Cortez, just 9 miles from the park entrance. The closest airports are Cortez Municipal Airport (16 miles) and Durango-La Plata County Airport (56 miles).
To reach the Balcony House, you’ll first have to drive to the park’s Mesa Top Loop Road. From there, a steep, winding, 6-mile drive will take you to the trailhead. Note that the Balcony House is only accessible via a ranger-guided tour, which should be booked in advance at the park’s Visitor and Research Center.
Best Time to Visit Balcony House
The Balcony House tours operate from late April through mid-October. The summer months can get hot and crowded, so the shoulder seasons (late April to early June and September to mid-October) offer a more pleasant climate and fewer visitors. Always check the official National Park Service website for the latest tour schedule and weather forecasts.
Top Attractions and Activities
Ranger-Guided Tour of Balcony House
The main attraction is the ranger-guided tour of the Balcony House. This 1-hour adventure involves climbing a 32-foot ladder, crawling through a 12-foot tunnel, and ascending a 60-foot open cliff face with stone steps and two 10-foot ladders. It’s a thrilling experience that gives you an intimate look at the architectural genius of the ancestral Puebloans.
Petroglyphs and Kivas
During the tour, you’ll encounter fascinating petroglyphs carved into the sandstone walls. The Balcony House also features several kivas — circular, subterranean rooms thought to be used for ceremonial purposes. The sheer number and preservation of these features make the Balcony House a treasure trove for history lovers and archeology enthusiasts.
Best Hikes and Trails
While the Balcony House tour itself is a short but strenuous 0.25-mile trail, there are several other hikes nearby:
- Petroglyph Point Trail: This 2.4-mile loop offers stunning views of the Spruce and Navajo Canyons and ends at a large petroglyph panel. It’s considered moderately challenging due to the uneven terrain and requires a free permit available at the trailhead.
- Spruce Canyon Trail: This 2.1-mile loop descends into Spruce Tree Canyon and winds its way back up to the mesa top. It’s a moderate trail with 440 feet of elevation gain.
Camping and Lodging Options
Mesa Verde offers a campground and a lodge within the park:
- Morefield Campground: Located 4 miles inside the park, Morefield offers tent and RV sites, full amenities, and even a village with a café, gas station, and RV services.
- Far View Lodge: For a more comfortable stay, Far View Lodge offers hotel-style accommodations with private balconies, a restaurant, and stunning panoramic views. It’s located 15 miles from the park entrance.
Practical Travel Tips and Safety Considerations
The Balcony House tour is physically demanding. It’s important to wear sturdy footwear, bring plenty of water (especially in summer), and be prepared for the high altitude and sudden weather changes typical in this region. Those with a fear of heights or claustrophobia should consider other sights within the park.
Flash floods can occur during summer monsoons, potentially making trails and roads impassable. Always check the weather forecast and heed warnings and closures from the National Park Service.
Balcony House Top Photo Spots
The Balcony House, with its unique cliff dwellings and backdrop of the expansive Montezuma Valley, offers numerous photo opportunities. The best spots are the kivas, the petroglyph panel, and the panoramic views from the cliff dwellings. Remember to respect the site and avoid touching or climbing on the structures.
Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or nature lover, the Balcony House in Mesa Verde National Park offers an unforgettable journey into the past. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your camera, and prepare to be amazed by the enduring legacy of the ancestral Puebloans.
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Where to Stay
When planning your visit to Mesa Verde National Park, you’ll be pleased with the variety of accommodations available both inside and near the park.
Inside the park, Morefield Campground provides a comfortable camping experience with 267 sites, all nestled among wildflowers and trees, making it feel like a small village. Campers can enjoy amenities like full hookup RV sites, free hot showers, a gas station, laundry facilities, and a well-stocked grocery store.
Another option within the park for those who prefer a touch of luxury is the Far View Lodge. Nestled on a high shoulder of the mesa, the lodge offers sweeping views of three states and private balconies for wildlife viewing right from your room.
If you’re looking for lodging near the park, the towns of Cortez, Mancos, and Durango offer a range of accommodations, from rustic cabins and charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Check out Recreation.gov, AirBNB, and VRBO for available options. You might also consider the nearby KOA Campgrounds for a classic camping experience.
Dining Options
For dining within the park, Metate Room Restaurant offers a gourmet menu with a focus on local and sustainable fare. For casual dining, visit Spruce Tree Terrace Café, located near the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, offering a selection of sandwiches, salads, and pizza.
If you prefer to cook your own meals, the Morefield Village has a full-service grocery store. In the nearby towns, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and grocery stores to meet your needs. Don’t miss the Absolute Bakery & Café in Mancos for homemade treats!
Travel Tips & Safety
A trip to Mesa Verde National Park requires some preparation. Ensure you have sturdy footwear, sun protection, and plenty of water. Due to the high altitude, hydration is crucial. If you’re bringing your furry friend, note that pets are only allowed in certain areas and must be kept on a leash.
Flash floods and altitude-related illnesses are possible risks, especially during the summer. Always check the weather forecast and consider your physical condition when planning your activities. Certain areas of the park require permits for access, so plan ahead.
Latest Park Alerts
Staying informed about the latest park conditions ensures a safe and enjoyable visit. Check the official National Park Service alerts page for Mesa Verde National Park for updates on weather, trail closures, wildfire risks, and road conditions. You can find the alerts page here.
Get Involved
If you’d like to contribute to the preservation of Mesa Verde National Park, consider volunteering. Opportunities include trail work, visitor programs, and citizen science projects. Not only will you be helping the park, but it’s also a wonderful way to learn more about its natural and cultural history. Find out more about volunteering here.
Mesa Verde National Park offers an unforgettable journey into the past. Plan your visit well, respect the park rules, and you’ll have a safe and enriching experience in this ancient and beautiful place.