Discover the Ancient Wonders of Cliff Palace
Explore the stunning Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient Puebloan architecture and breathtaking landscapes.
Cliff Palace, nestled in Mesa Verde National Park, is a breathtaking archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans. Explore the intricate architecture and stunning cliff dwellings that have stood the test of time, surrounded by the natural beauty of Colorado's landscapes.
A brief summary to Cliff Palace
- Cliff Palace Loop, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- +1970-529-4465
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and steep in certain areas.
- Check the National Park's website for seasonal tours and any potential access restrictions.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities in the park are limited.
- Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from the center of High Plains, head south on State Highway 385. Follow the signs for US-160 W toward Durango. Continue on US-160 W for approximately 40 miles until you reach the entrance of Mesa Verde National Park. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Cliff Palace Loop, which is about 10 miles from the entrance. Please note that there may be an entrance fee to the park, which is around $25 per vehicle.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, first take a Greyhound bus or any available local transit to Cortez, Colorado. From Cortez, you can take a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to Mesa Verde National Park. The distance is approximately 10 miles, and the fare may range from $15 to $30 depending on the service. Once in the park, you will need to drive or arrange for a guided tour that includes transport to Cliff Palace.
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Guided Tours
Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from High Plains to Cliff Palace. Many local tour companies offer packages that cover transportation, park fees, and guided tours of the site. This option is convenient and informative, as you will have an experienced guide to enhance your visit.
Discover more about Cliff Palace
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
2.3 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Coyote Village
8.3 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Megalithic House
8.8 km
Explore the Megalithic House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark that reveals the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Moore The Merrier
19.9 km
Experience exceptional event planning at The Moore The Merrier, where every celebration is crafted to perfection in beautiful Colorado.
Yucca House National Monument
21.0 km
Explore the ancient Puebloan ruins at Yucca House National Monument, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty in Cortez, Colorado.
Welcome to Colorado Sign
31.5 km
Discover the gateway to adventure at Colorado's iconic Welcome Sign, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
Escalante Pueblo
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Discover Durango
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DurangoLiveCam
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The Farmington F
51.4 km
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Silver River Adobe Inn
51.9 km
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McElmo Canyon
51.9 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sun Temple
0.3 km
Explore the mysteries of the Sun Temple, an Ancestral Puebloan ceremonial site in Mesa Verde National Park, offering stunning views and archaeological intrigue.
Sun Point View
0.5 km
Witness stunning panoramic views of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings from this easily accessible overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Soda Canyon Overlook South
1.0 km
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Mesa Top Sites
1.0 km
Discover 700 years of Ancestral Puebloan history at Mesa Verde's Mesa Top Sites, showcasing evolving architecture and ancient traditions.
Balcony House
1.0 km
Explore Balcony House in Mesa Verde: A thrilling adventure into Ancestral Puebloan history and architecture.
Hemenway House Overlook
1.6 km
Witness the ancient Hemenway House from this stunning Mesa Verde National Park overlook, a tribute to Ancestral Puebloan ingenuity.
Square Tower House
1.6 km
Explore the remarkable Square Tower House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historic site showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Navajo Canyon View
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Spruce Tree House
2.2 km
Discover the ancient architecture of Spruce Tree House in Mesa Verde National Park, a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
2.3 km
Discover the heart of Mesa Verde National Park, where Ancestral Puebloan history comes to life.
Petroglyph Point Trail
2.3 km
Explore ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park. A journey through time!
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
2.4 km
Discover the ancient world of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde's Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
Long House
5.9 km
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Wetherill Mesa Information
6.5 km
Experience the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park at the Wetherill Mesa Information Center, your essential guide to exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Step House
6.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
2.5 km
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D N M Grillen Native
45.9 km
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Chat & Chew
46.2 km
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That's A Burger
47.4 km
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Bamboo House Restaurant
47.6 km
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Nataaní Nez
48.8 km
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Grill On the Hill
51.5 km
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No Worries Sports Bar & Grill
52.3 km
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Los Hermanitos
52.6 km
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Burger Theory
52.8 km
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
53.0 km
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Chili's Grill & Bar
53.1 km
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Outback Steakhouse
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Riverside Pizza Restaurant
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Arches Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Parking Area
2.5 km
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Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
10.3 km
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Sinclair Gas Station
10.3 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Knife Edge Cafe at Morefield Village
15.5 km
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Camp Store
15.5 km
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Thunderbird Trading Company
18.1 km
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Entrance Station Kiosk
19.0 km
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Mesa Verde Museum Association
19.7 km
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Antique Corral
20.0 km
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Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
21.3 km
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Mud Creek Hogan Trading Post
21.9 km
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Countyroad9
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Buffalo Bob's Co-op
22.1 km
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LaDawn's
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Anna's Mini Treasure
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roadside Fry Bread Stand
1.5 km
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Far View Lounge
10.3 km
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Metate Room
10.3 km
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Kuchu's Restaurant
19.2 km
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The Meltdown
21.6 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
21.6 km
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J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
21.9 km
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Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
22.0 km
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Blondies Trophy Room
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Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
22.4 km
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Loungin' Lizard
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ZU Gallery
22.6 km
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WildEdge Brewing Collective
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Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
23.1 km
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Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
23.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The MOD
45.9 km
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Sons club
53.4 km
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Sun Ray Bar & Grill
61.7 km
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