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Navajo Canyon View: A Window to Mesa Verde's Majesty

Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.

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Navajo Canyon View offers visitors a breathtaking panorama of Navajo Canyon, showcasing the stunning geological formations and Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings nestled within Mesa Verde National Park. It's a convenient and rewarding stop along the Mesa Top Loop Road, providing a glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural history of the region.

A brief summary to Navajo Canyon View

  • State Hwy 10, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as there may be some walking involved at the viewpoint.
  • Combine your visit with exploration of nearby ruins for a comprehensive Mesa Verde experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the main entrance of Mesa Verde National Park, drive along the Main Park Road (State Hwy 10) towards the Mesa Top Loop Road. Follow the signs directing you to the various viewpoints. After approximately 12 miles, look for the sign indicating Navajo Canyon View. Turn left into the parking area. The viewpoint is a short walk from the parking lot.

  • Public Transportation

    While public transportation within Mesa Verde National Park is limited, shuttle services from nearby towns like Cortez may be available. Request a drop-off at the Main Park Road. From there, you can walk along the road to reach Navajo Canyon View, which is about 2.5 miles away, or check if the shuttle offers a drop-off closer to the viewpoint. Check the shuttle schedule and availability in advance.

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Discover more about Navajo Canyon View

Navajo Canyon View is a must-see vista point within Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, offering sweeping views of the dramatic Navajo Canyon. From this vantage point, visitors can appreciate the sheer scale of the canyon, carved over millennia by erosion, and spot the ancient cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans. The most prominent of these is the Square Tower House, a remarkable example of ancient engineering and architectural skill. The overlook is easily accessible via a short, paved trail from the parking area on Mesa Top Loop Road, making it a convenient stop for all visitors. Interpretive signs provide insights into the geology of the canyon, the history of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area for over 700 years, and the unique environment that supported their way of life. Visitors are encouraged to take their time at the overlook, breathing in the fresh air and contemplating the stories etched into the canyon walls. The changing light throughout the day offers different perspectives, with sunrise and sunset being particularly magical times to visit. Navajo Canyon View is more than just a scenic viewpoint; it's a place to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring power of nature.

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