Square Tower House: A Mesa Verde Masterpiece
Discover the architectural marvel of Square Tower House, Mesa Verde's tallest and best-preserved cliff dwelling, showcasing Ancestral Puebloan ingenuity.
Square Tower House, nestled in Mesa Verde National Park, is an exceptionally well-preserved cliff dwelling showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans. Featuring the park's tallest standing structure, an intact kiva roof, and remarkable rock art, it offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of its builders who resided here between 1205 and 1281 AD.
A brief summary to Square Tower House
- Mesa Top Loop, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Reservations for the ranger-led tour are essential and can be made on Recreation.gov up to 14 days in advance. These tours often sell out quickly.
- Arrive at the Square Tower House trailhead 15 minutes early for a safety briefing before your tour.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots and bring at least 2 quarts (2 liters) of water per person for the ranger-led tour.
- Consider parking at the Navajo Canyon Overlook on the Mesa Top Loop if parking is limited at the Square Tower House trailhead.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Mesa Verde National Park entrance, drive 20 miles to the all-way stop on Chapin Mesa. Turn left towards the Mesa Top Loop and drive 1.9 miles to the Square Tower House parking area. Allow 75 minutes to drive from the park entrance to the trailhead. Park entrance fees range from $15-$30. A ranger-led tour of Square Tower House costs $25 per person.
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Walking
If parking is full at the Square Tower House trailhead, consider parking at the nearby Navajo Canyon Overlook on the Mesa Top Loop, from which Square Tower House is a short walk. Follow the paved path from the parking area to the Square Tower House Overlook Trail. The Square Tower House dwellings are located below your feet and to the right-hand side and can't be missed.
Discover more about Square Tower House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
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Unmissable attractions to see
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