Long House: A Journey into Ancestral Puebloan Life
Explore Long House, Mesa Verde's second-largest cliff dwelling, and step back in time to discover the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Long House, the second-largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who built and inhabited it in the 1200s. Located on Wetherill Mesa, this remarkable site features approximately 150 rooms and 21 kivas, showcasing the architectural and cultural sophistication of its builders.
A brief summary to Long House
- Long House, Tram Rte, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- +1970-529-4465
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tour tickets at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center before driving to Wetherill Mesa.
- Arrive at the Long House trailhead 15 minutes early for a safety and logistics briefing.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots and bring at least 2 quarts (2 liters) of water per person.
- Be prepared for a 0.75-mile (1.2 km) walk from the Wetherill Mesa parking lot to the Long House trailhead.
Getting There
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Driving & Shuttle
To reach Long House, start at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, located near the park entrance. Purchase your ranger-guided tour tickets here. Then, drive 15 miles into the park, past Far View Lodge, and turn right onto Wetherill Mesa Road. This winding, 12-mile road takes about 45 minutes to drive due to its curves and hills; vehicles are restricted to under 25 feet in length and 8,000 lbs. At the Wetherill Mesa parking area, a free shuttle (first-come, first-served) provides access to the Long House trailhead. From the trailhead, it's a 0.75-mile walk to the Long House site. Mesa Verde National Park entrance fee is $30 per private vehicle. Long House tour tickets are $8 per person. There are no additional costs for the final approach.
Discover more about Long House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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